The Fifie

By Marco Collina

A young couple living by the seaside in 19th Century Scotland meet by chance and fall in love. Their considerate nature takes them away from their destined fates by their ill-fated meeting with a Cailleach. After being lost at sea, they find themselves separated with refreshed lives in a new place and time.

• Language: English
• Publisher: MAC Press
• Release date: Jul 28, 2022
• ISBN: 9798986465012

Book preview

Chapter 1

I fancied my name had been bellowed as I swiftly moved down Balgay Hill, this fine day of May in eighteen-hundred and sixty-two. It happened to be my birthday and I was late for work this morn and without breakfast. My stomach would not tolerate another piece of bread and jam. Every morn I walked from Muirhead to Dundee. It was always a good sight when I would arrive to the cemetery. As now, I could follow the sea in the distance. It also meant I had almost arrived after my brisk five miles walk. I worked for my Uncle Thomas, an adept seaman and a prominent shipbuilder at Dundee. We had repaired a fifie for a fisherman near to St. Andrews. It was my task today to sail it out of the Firth of Tay. And deliver it to the client’s dock at Crail Harbor.

As I arrived at my uncle’s boathouse, I could see my Cousin Patrick as he rigged the fifie for its trip towards St. Andrews today. My uncle entrusted me to make this excursion solo as he had confidence in my ability to handle the vessel without a crew. The winds normally blew in from the North Sea over the Firth of Tay. So, I would need to make several tacks in a beating fashion until I exited the firth. I had worked with my father when I was younger, he was a fisherman. I was only fifteen when one day, he left on a whaling expedition. They intended to travel to Iceland. They did not find any whales at the intended destination. The owner of the vessel decided to travel further west as he was determined to make his money. They eventually found an abundance of whales south of Cape Farewell. And the captain and crew celebrated their fortune by consuming most of the rum they had carried on the entire journey. The account we were told by the surviving crew was that a storm arrived unexpectedly and drove them into the Labrador Sea. And afterwards well up north into the Davis Strait. The vessel was damaged severely by the intense storm. By the Lord’s grace, they managed to arrive at Disko Island. Unfortunately, my father was struck with fever and did not survive. He was buried there near the village of Qequertarsuaq. Alongside other afflicted members of the crew, as well as the Captain.

I called out to Patrick, Hey, Patrick, is she ready to go?

Patrick replied, Where have you been Marcas. My Father expected you sooner. He has since left to make a purchase at the lumber yard.

I apologize Patrick, I overslept this morn. Not to worry, with a favorable wind I will get the vessel past St. Andrew’s by early afternoon. I only hope to find a carriage back to Dundee.

Patrick replied, Not to worry Marcas. My father purchased some herring from Mr. Collen in return for some of the labor on this fifie. Mr. Collen will arrange to carry you back to Dundee with the herring.

I was happy to hear that. As it was one less effort that I would need to concern my mind with today. I asked Patrick, Where shall I place the herring once I return?

Patrick replied, My father instructed to deliver it directly to the salt house. They will clean and salt them in the morning.

Patrick had rigged the vessel and I was eager to commence the journey as I was already late. The wind blew from the east at a good clip. And I would be beating my way out of the firth. I intended to arrive to Crail Harbor by mid-afternoon. I boarded the fifie and grabbed the front sail sheet. Patrick untied me as I pulled the sheet and caught wind. The bow came starboard off the dock. We waved off to each other as I hoisted the main sail and proceeded across the firth.

I knew this firth very well and I carved the waves with my bow in confidence. I had sailed it many times since I was a young lad. Whenever I set forth here alone. I recalled the memories of my father and I as we travelled the Tay on our fishing excursions. It was many years ago. On occasions we would travel west towards the river Tay. There was a spot where we would always catch large salmon. Many time’s we beached our boat by the riverside and prepared the fish by campfire. That was a delicious treat indeed. My father always emphasized how important it was to take the time to enjoy the simple things in life.

I had fond memories of my father. That are now only sentiments of long ago. My mother had died as she gave birth to me. As a result, my father and I were a family that lacked a feminine influence. Dad never remarried and always expressed he was married to the sea. I had no memories of Mother other than I was told she worked as a weaver and had a cheerful character. I was her first born, and also her last. Still today I carry a sentiment of guilt from being born. Although I’ve come to the realization, her fate was not in my control.

It was now time for the first tack. I released some main sheet and locked the wheel. The boom shifted and I pulled the main sail sheet in again. Off we went close hauled thereafter. I loved to sail, for me it was as if I danced with the wind and the sea.

We fought a strong headwind and the whitecaps were plenty. The fifie bounced about as we proceeded to the next waypoint. There were rumors of a bridge to be built over the firth. I had mixed feelings about it as I thought it would make it difficult for sailors to navigate. The firth just would not be the same should they build such an enormous structure. I hoped they would not. In due time, I could see the Tayport Pile Lighthouse, and thereafter, the North Sea. As we exited the firth, the waves grew in height. However, they were further apart. The forty-two feet length of this fifie handled the waves smoothly with the assistance of its long hull. I decided to take a wider route past St. Andrews, as I enjoyed the day in the open sea.

Unwittingly, I used the time to ponder my thoughts. Since I was a boy, I knew I wanted to spend my time by the sea. My father was a fisherman and I always thought to follow his path. Since my Dad’s death. I learned much about ship building and repairs as I worked for my uncle. My passion however, was to sail the seas. My uncle often hinted to broaden his business and open an American company. He hinted that it would be in my best interest to take on this venture. Now that I was 25 years of age. I was young enough and knowledgeable enough to establish a company with my uncle’s support. The idea allured me. However, I could not find the initiative within me. On the other hand, there was an unsettled part of me. My friends had all settled down and started families. Hence, we drifted and parted our ways. I found myself often being alone. My only consolation was that I worked by the sea. And very often, I would set sail and savor the wind as it aroused my spirit. I had come to the realization that the notion to traverse the oceans called upon my heart. However, I was not quite ready to release my soul and follow its destiny.

In the distance, I could now see the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral and St. Andrews Castle as they appeared over the water’s edge. Soon after, I could see the grassy knolls and sandy beaches past the ruins. I knew that I would soon make the waypoint to East Neuk at Fife. And thereafter to Crail harbor, which is where I was destined. I noticed the sun was now lower towards the horizon and I would arrive later than expected. I’ll explain to Mr. Collen that I had waited for the tide to come in so I could navigate into his dock without risk.

I had held the wheel almost the entire afternoon and I was quite tranquil as I approached the stone wall entry to Crail Harbor. As I expected, the tide was now high enough to make a comfortable entry. The access to the harbor is positioned adjacent to the beach so there is not much room for error. I lowered the mainsail and grabbed a long paddle to scull the boat carefully. Maneuvering very close to the stone wall entrance. As I entered the harbor, I noticed an empty berth and I carefully directed myself towards it. There was a ladder against the wall and I positioned myself alongside it. As I made my final approach, I noticed a lovely lass as she scurried above and tossed a rope on board the vessel. She took me by surprise and I almost hit the wall. Luckily, I fended off the stone embankment in the nick of time, using my paddle.

Ahoy there! Nice work, mate. The lovely lass shouted.

I gleefully replied. Ahoy! It’s a delicate approach, the preferred method is to move slowly. I proceeded to tie up the vessel to the ropes.

Yes, I agree. The lovely lass replied.

I proceeded to climb up the ladder and she met me at the top. I asked, I have an appointment with Mr. Collen, would you know if he is here?

The lovely lass replied. I am Maureen, Mr. Collen is my father. He had expected you earlier and he has already left for the fish house.

As I listened to her and took in her beautiful eyes, I kind of lost my sense of existence. She had long auburn hair, compassionate blue eyes and a gracious smile with white teeth that glistened. In the few moments I had experienced her presence, I found myself bewildered. It was as if I had already known her from a place I knew long ago, but I could not remember.

Maureen looked at me with concern and said, Sir, are you well? What is your name?

I looked into her eyes and calmly replied. Forgive me Maureen. I seem to be flustered from the trip. My name is Marcas.

Maureen replied, Marcas, come with me to our office canteen and I will fix you a cup of tea.

I observed that not only was she beautiful, she was also considerate and kind. I appreciatively replied, Maureen, that is so very kind of you. Yes, I would very much appreciate some tea. I followed her to the office down at the corner of the street right across from the berth. She walked very swiftly and I chased to follow.

Maureen said, Marcas, do you live in Dundee? I don’t recall to have seen you around here before.

I live in Muirhead. I work for my uncle in Dundee. I don’t come around these parts very often. It seems a lovely place. I replied.

We entered the office, there was a large wooden desk and many chairs around it. Some certificates hung on the wall along with a few oil paintings of ships alongside a large bookcase with many books and model ships. I followed her down a long hallway with a few closed doors along the way. At the end of the hallway, there was the canteen. The stove was already lit and she placed the kettle on it. There was an old wooden table of thick oak planks in the middle of the room.

Maureen said with a smile, Marcas, please, sit down.

She walked over to the pantry and took out some bread and jam and brought it to the table.

Maureen said, Marcas, would you like some bread and jam? Or would you prefer to have some little cakes?

I was not accustomed to her courteous hospitality and perhaps I felt a little unworthy. I concernedly replied, Miss Maureen, you are so kind. I hope I am not a cause of trouble for you today.

Maureen interrupted, Marcas, loosen up lad. Tis no trouble at all. You seem a little shaken from your trip, relax and stay seated.

She poured the tea and brought it over to me with her pleasant smile.

Maureen said, Marcas, here you are. Have some tea and cake. It’ll give ye back some strength.

I picked up the tea cup and savored some in great appreciation. The cake was scrumptious too. I said with a smile, Miss Maureen, this is delicious. Maureen gave me a quick appreciative glance as she placed some coal in the stove.

Maureen replied, Marcas, you do seem to enjoy that cake! Would ye like some more?

I stared at Maureen with a sheepish look on my face as I chewed the last bite of cake. Oh, I’m sorry Maureen. I ate all your cakes!

Maureen interrupted, No need to be sorry Marcas. I’m happy you like them. I made them me-self! I have more if you have some appetite.

No, thank you Maureen. I feel much better now. I hope one day to return the favor to you, I replied with gratitude. Maureen washed her hands with soap and water and wiped them with a towel as she looked at me with a concerned look. My father had asked me to take you back to Dundee with the horse and cart. Together with a barrel of herring. I think now it may be too late in the day for me to make the trip. As I would need to make the return in the dark. I’d rather travel by daylight in the morning.

With concern I replied, Now I’ve caused ye more trouble. Maureen, is there a room in town I can rent for the night?

Marcas, it’s no trouble at all. We do appreciate you’ve brought the fifie back home, replied Maureen.

She pointed to the hallway and said, We have a spare room right here we keep for occasions such as this. There is no charge.

I looked at the door in the hallway. And quickly back to Maureen. That’s very hospitable of you Maureen, I replied kindly.

Maureen interrupted and said with her eyes excitedly wide open. We run a pub on the corner and we serve a good baked salmon. Or the venison pie ye may be partial to as well.

I replied, Thank you so kindly Maureen, I will certainly attend the pub this evening. She smiled and quickly looked away. And soon after, I sheepishly asked, Maureen, may you accompany me to the pub?

Maureen replied, "Well now Marcas, that’s nice of you to ask. I’ll actually be the bar tender at the pub this evening since it’s Tuesday. Come on in and join us, it’s right off of Shoregate. White building with a red door. There are few steps going up."

Maureen walked into the hallway and over to the first door on the right.

Maureen looked at me as she opened the door and said, Marcas, come see your room for the night.

I walked over and entered the room briefly as she stood in the hallway. It was a small room with a bed, dresser, desk and chair. No windows, although it was clean and cozy. And I was very pleased, Maureen, thank you so much for this generosity. I would like to come see you at the pub this evening. What time is best to attend?

Maureen placed her hand on her cheek and replied, Marcas, it’s good you asked me as I had almost forgotten. I’m due to leave now to go over and assist the cook with dinner. Salmon will be ready in two hours. The pub is right down the street.

I replied with a smile and waved to her as she left, Maureen, all this talk about food has made me hungry, I’ll see ye soon.

Once she left, I sat back on the chair in the room and raised my arms in elation. What a magnificent maiden I found today. I had never been in love before and always wondered what it might feel like. Well, I think this was it! I could not explain to myself in any other way why I was so excited to see her again tonight.

I decided to wash up and I went outside to the well in the courtyard to fill a pitcher with water. Back at the room, I filled the basin and washed myself so I could be presentable at the pub after my day at sea. I combed my hair and gave myself a look over in the mirror above the dresser table. Afterwards, I cleaned up and proceeded outside to have a walk about the town. I walked down the street back to where I docked the fifie to have a look. She was there where I left her. I noticed a high point over the towns east side and I thought I’d try to take a walk up there to see the view from above. First, I noticed a path that ascended steeply over the harbor towards the west. I walked up the brick walkway which included many steps to accomplish this steep slope. Once above, I turned right onto Westgate and soon after my first right onto Shoregate. All along the way, I thought of Maureen. I wanted to see her again after tomorrow and I hoped she felt the same. I was now tired of this uphill walk and found myself at Castle Walk. I could see that at one point there was a medieval castle here. I walked along a stone walkway built against a castle wall above the sea. There were some benches against the castle wall and I sat on one of them to rest. In the distance, the waves crashed against the rocks along the shore. And together with the sound of the sea, I was allured to the enchantment. I thought back to my Dad as he said he was married to the sea, and how I always pondered. That must have been a very lonely fate.

The cloud cover shined pink and reddish hues as the sun approached the horizon. A good chill in the air arrived once the sky turned a darker blue. I thought it was now time to go to the pub and I quickly made my way down Shoregate. I found the white building with the red door Maureen had mentioned. I entered and found myself a seat by the window. There was a lovely view of the sea from here. I could see perfectly a good way out to the Isle of May.

The waiter walked over to me and asked, Good evening lad, may I offer you any drink?

I replied, Thank you, sir. I was hoping to find Maureen. Is she here?

The waiter replied, Well now lad. I know you’re not one of the regulars here. Why do you seek Lady Maureen?

I was perplexed once I heard when the waiter referred to Maureen as ‘Lady’. I replied to the waiter, Sir, I just delivered her vessel this afternoon. And she invited me to the pub for dinner. Is she here?

The waiter replied, Ah, that explains it. Very well lad, I’ll let her know you’re here. And what might be your name lad?

I replied, Marcas.

The waiter left the room and I sat on my own by the window. I noticed that the lighthouse on the Isle of May was now lit. A couple of men walked in and helped themselves to a table at the other end of the room.

One of the men called out to me and said, Hey, lad. Do ye know who the host is tonight?

I replied, No, sir.

The man turned back to his friend and said, I’m hoping it’s the same young lass that served us last time, she’s very sweet.

I was essentially sure I knew whom they referred to as sweet. These blokes looked like they just got off a fishing boat. Their clothes were dirty and it was apparent, they could use a good bath.

The waiter walked back in and walked over to the two men.

Good evening gents, may I offer you some ale? he asked.

The same man that seemed to do most of the talking replied, Bring us some Guinness mate.

The waiter replied, Right away gents.

The waiter walked over to me and quietly said, Lady Maureen is upstairs in her quarters. She needed to freshen up after she prepared the salmon for tonight. She said she would come to see you soon.

I replied to the waiter, Thank you.

The waiter walked off and I assumed Maureen must live here if her quarters are upstairs. Well, it’s a nice place to live, right by the seaside.

The waiter returned with some ale for the two men. Placed their glasses on the table, and afterwards he walked over to me.

The waiter announced as he placed a glass on my table. Here you are lad. Compliments of the house as per Lady Maureen.

I was surprised, and I replied, Thank you kindly sir.

The waiter went back to the kitchen and I took a sip of my ale.

A couple walked in and I turned my head to look their way.

The man announced, Good evening. My wife and I just arrived in town. We’re looking for a room for the night.

The woman seemed very tired as she leaned on her husband while he attempted to hold her upright. The two blokes sat at their table with their ale in hand and said nothing. I walked over to the couple and said, The waiter just went back to the kitchen, I’ll try and call him. The woman was thin and frail, she appeared almost asleep. I looked to the man and said, You better have your wife sit down as she seems tired. I helped them over to a chair. Maureen walked in from the kitchen and walked over as we were attempting to assist the woman into a chair.

Maureen concernedly asked, Marcas, does the lady have any ailment?

The man replied with a troubled look as he held his wife. We travelled with intent to reach Dundee, in hopes to find a doctor. She has not been well for some time. And her ill health has become progressively worse.

Maureen looked to me and said, Marcas, would ye mind to assist the gentleman and lady to the room across the hall from yours. I’ll come and assist shortly.

I looked to the man and together we lifted the woman upright. It became evident I would need to lift her and carry her in my arms. And so, I did. The man had a horse and cart outside and I gently placed the woman in the cart. I said to the man, You should stay back here and hold her while I guide the horse. The man agreed and nodded. It was a short distance and I stopped the horse right at the entrance. I told the man to wait for me until I could open the doors. I entered and there was a