The Legend of Chip: The Cover of Darkness

By Stanley Campbell

The Legend of Chip

Christopher "Chip" MacDougall is a simple man, struggling with change and loss while providing for his family. But when a stranger offers him the opportunity to earn more money, his life is flipped upside down. Unexplainable things begin to happen and good fortune quickly turns to adversity. While trying

• Language: English
• Publisher: LW Publications
• Release date: Jun 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9780999597187

Book preview

1

Mere Formality

Christopher MacDougall held two pieces of parchment in his hands. The parchment in his left hand bore his name, while the one in his right bore his alias, William Chips. Together, they represented the crossroads that he had reached in his life. Both were invaluable in their own right. The parchment bearing Chip’s actual name gave him the right to walk about the British Colonies as a free man. While the other bestowed upon him the Commendation for Valor and passage back to Scotland.

Chip stood at the edge of the pier and stared out over the flowing waters of the Delaware River. He took a deep breath and then shredded the parchment which bore his name. Chip then tossed the pieces into the waters and watched as they drifted away in the current.

Chip folded the Commendation, tucked it inside his waistcoat, and then walked back up the pier. He reached inside his coat pocket to pet his tiny friend, who slept curled up in a ball. The young rat stretched at his touch, then scurried up his arm, onto his shoulder, and under his collar.

We be near the water, Master. Humphrey’s whiskers twitched as he sniffed the air. Be today the day?

Chip checked to ensure no people were close enough to hear. Nay, little friend. We shall sail tomorrow at midday.

Why then be we near water?

Lightfoot and I had to deliver some crates to the Ottoman. Did me lifting and shoving not wake thee?

Nay, Master. I be with me pack all night, hunting. We be preparing for the long journey, as ye suggested.

Chip opened his mouth to ask what he suggested when a tall figure stepped off the gangplank to his right and onto the pier. The man would have easily blended into the Philadelphia city scenery if it hadn’t been for his braided hair, dark complexion, and top hat, which bore a single feather.

Were you successful in cleansing your soul, Mantisow?

Chip glanced up at his friend, then sighed. I told ye before, Lightfoot, me conscious be clear. I just be needing to set me resolve.

I shall miss thee.

Chip climbed up onto the wagon alongside his friend. And I shall miss thee as well.

Lightfoot took the reins, and they set off back up the Philadelphia streets to Mr. Franklin’s printing house. Chip studied the road and the buildings as they passed by. He wanted to commit them to memory. He knew that his children, Marcus and Anna, would like to know all about the places that he’d been. However, his wife, Mary, would be far more interested in hearing about the people he’d met. Chip glanced again at his friend. ‘I wonder what she shall think when I tell her of me new brother.’ In his mind, he could see her smiling while calling Lightfoot a God-sent.

I would like to see the land of your fathers one day, Mantisow.

Chip sighed. I wish ye could come with me, but I fear that we might be sailing into the devil’s den upon me return.

I fear no den of evil, Mantisow. However, I believe this journey is for you and your spirit companion, Humphrey.

Chip cleared his throat upon hearing, ‘spirit companion’. It had become Lightfoot’s new term for Humphrey since the cabin incident. Chip reached up and stroked Humphrey’s head, earning a chirp from his little friend. The sound drew a rare smile from Lightfoot.

I shall miss thee, Lightfoot. However, I, too, agree. This journey ahead be one that I must sojourn alone.

You are not alone, Mantisow.

A vision of Mr. Prose flashed through Chip’s mind before he remembered the words of Hess. ‘Comfort comes from friends and family.’ Aye, ye be correct. I be not alone.

Chip came down from his room the following day to find Mrs. Franklin and her daughter Sally setting the table. The aroma of bacon tantalized his senses as it lofted in the air from the kitchen. He settled into the seat that had become his over the past few months one last time and tucked in.

Ah, there he is! Mr. Franklin proclaimed as he entered the room. The once again Sailing Master of the mighty Ottoman.

Chip nodded. Good morning, Ben.

Well, I must say that I shall miss thee, Christopher, Ben added as he took a bite of his toast. Chip had become accustomed to hearing his real name while in the Franklin home.

And I shall miss thee as well. These last few months, yer family hath been too kind. I shall never forget thee.

Oh, think nothing of it, my dear man, Ben chuckled. Least I could do for all that you have done. Now, have you decided what you shall do upon your arrival home?

Nay, sir, Chip sighed as Mrs. Franklin served him a plate of bacon, eggs, potatoes, and toast. The captain saith he hath a plan, but I doubt that he be able to convince me, accuser, to tell the truth. Therefore, I shall probably head north to me hometown of Balloch. They shall keep me hidden, and I shall be able to visit me family.

Ben took a long sip from his coffee. Well, you have a long journey ahead. There shall be plenty of time to come up with a better plan. But, until then, your beard is coming along splendidly. I dare say that few shall recognize thee by the time you arrive in Britain.

Chip couldn’t help but smirk as he chewed his bacon. ‘I shall miss this,’ he mused.

After listening to your many stories, I marvel now that in my travels to Britain, I have yet to visit your homeland.

Chip choked on a sip of coffee. Ye hath never ventured to Scotland?

Alas, no. As amazing as it sounds, the opportunities have evaded me. However, I shall visit your homeland before my venturing days are behind me. This, I am certain. When I do, I shall plan to call upon you.

Sir, me home shall always be open to thee, whether I be there or not.

Nonsense. You shall be there. I have faith in you and your dear captain. Ben cleared his throat. Now, once we have finished this delicious breakfast, I shall escort you down to the Ottoman and your post.

Thank ye, sir, Chip nodded. I shall be honored.

Only the proper send-off for Master William Chips, Sailing Master and Man of Valor.

Chip shook his head as he moved some bacon pieces to the side. Humphrey had left with the other scouts from his pack earlier that morning. They went to inform the pack that the time had come to board the Ottoman.

Eat up, Christopher. Deborah shall have some meat for your small traveling companion.

Chip looked across the room, where Mrs. Franklin now tended to the fireplace. Thank ye, ma’am.

Think nothing of it, Mr. MacDougall, she retorted as she turned to face him. Your presence has been a blessing. Not once did I have to make your bed or tend to your grate. If only all our guests would be as such.

Ben chuckled. My dear wife shall have you training me if you stay any longer. He cleared his throat, then fixed Chip with a solemn stare. With good humor aside, have you fully committed to your return? So as to say, to not simply wait here with us while Captain O’Toole fetches your family. Think, Christopher, for a moment longer about what you are facing upon your arrival and what you shall leave behind. He leaned upon the table. Here, you walk free. James has seen to this. You and your family can start anew.

Chip took a moment to reflect. Truthfully, he did find the offer tempting. But, while he would have freedom if he stayed, it would mean that his family would have to leave everything and everyone they knew behind and start anew. The family bakery, which employed Spencer and Donovan, would have to be sold or closed. Chip sighed. Only a few short years earlier, before he met Mr. Prose, the prospect would have sounded like the most wondrous idea. Now, the concept sounded selfish.

Ben, I hath given this much thought. As for what Mr. Hamilton hath done. I shall be eternally grateful. However, me wife’s family be in Scotland. To rip me wife and children from them be too much for me to ask. Besides, we hath a bakery that employs two young lads. We would hath our freedom, but me heart would not be free here. Not until I know that I hath done all I can to clear me name and make preparations for the bakery.

Ben nodded, wiping his mouth with his napkin. Promise me then that if you exhaust all roads back home and fail to find your way clear, you shall consider bringing your family here. That parchment you tore into pieces on the pier is not the only copy of your pardon.

How did ye know—

Lightfoot and I have become close. Ben took one final sip from his coffee and then rose from the table. He shall miss thee dearly. Now, do I have your promise?

Chip finished his last piece of bacon, then rose as well. Aye, sir. That I can promise.

Ben pulled on his coat, then shook Chip’s hand. Let us go then. I would not want you to be late reporting to your station on my account, Master William Chips.

Sally, Mrs. Franklin called. Bring me the package for Mr. MacDougall.

The young girl darted out of the kitchen in a dark blue dress with white ruffles and carrying a brown package. Chip watched as she handed it to her mother, smiled at him, then hurried back into the kitchen.

This is for you, Mrs. Franklin explained, handing it to Chip. The meat tips are for your pet. The fresh cheese, bread, and sliced ham is for you. The cheese and bread should last a few days.

Thank ye, ma’am. Ye be too kind. Chip inclined his head and then placed his cap atop.

Mrs. Franklin beamed at him, then hurried into the kitchen to join her daughter.

Shall we be off? Have you gathered your things?

Aye. Me haversack be waiting by the door.

Excellent. We must stop by the printing house before we leave. David shall wish to bid you farewell.

Chip followed Ben to the side door, gripped his haversack, and steadied himself for the possibly emotional goodbyes. Something moved within its folds as he tossed his bag over his shoulder. He turned his head just in time to catch a glimpse of Humphrey as he hopped onto his shoulder and under his collar.

Waiting for me, I see? Chip whispered.

Aye, Master. Those of me pack that shall make the journey back hath boarded yer vessel.

Those? Chip repeated.

Aye, Master. Some chose to stay behind, but many doth come.

Muttering under your breath in your Gaelic tongue?

Chip looked to the door to see Ben gazing at him with one eyebrow lifted. Aye, sir. I hath a habit of muttering in Gaelic when I be nervous or thinking.

Ben winked. Then either you overthink things, like me, or you are quite the nervous chap. I shall go with a thinker. He pulled open the door and stepped into the courtyard that separated the Franklin home from the printing house. Lightfoot must believe that you are communing with your pet.

Chip choked on his breath. Pardon me, sir?

It is why he calls you Mantisow, correct? One who communes with small creatures.

Aye, but how did ye know that he calls me such?

Ben placed a hand on the door handle to the printing house. I have heard him refer to you by that name. I did some research but could not find any reference.

How then doth ye know?

Ben smirked. I did what any logical man would do when all other avenues have been exhausted. I asked him.

They entered the printing house to find several men grouped together and working hard. Mr. Hall, King, and George worked the presses while William Skeoch and Meng Lew tied bundles and packed boxes for delivery.

The moment they entered, Mr. Hall shouted over the noise, Hold the press! Then wiping dried ink on his apron, he greeted, Ah, good morning, Master William. Morning, Ben. Is today the day?

That it is.

Chip turned to see James Ritchie, Lightfoot, and the Lieutenant Governor, James Hamilton, standing just inside the front doorway.

Gentleman! Ben proclaimed. Just on time.

I would not miss seeing once more the man to whom I owe so much. Mr. Hamilton extended a hand in greeting.

Sir, I be honored. Chip inclined his head as he shook the Lieutenant Governor’s hand.

We be yer escort to the Ottoman, James added as he stepped forward and shook Chip’s hand as though he hadn’t seen him in a month.

Me escort?

Yes, Chip, Lightfoot nodded. James Ritchie, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Franklin, and I shall see you on to your next journey.

Chip had to fight back tears as a lump formed in his throat. Unable to answer, he nodded to his friend, then turned to bid farewell to the others. When he reached Meng Lew, he paused.

It has been a pleasure to know thee, Mr. Chips. I shall never forget what you did for me aboard the Ottoman.

What did I doeth for thee? Chip scoffed. Besides showing thee how to flush the pipes.

Mr. Lew smiled at the memory. You showed me kindness when I needed it most. You did not know what I be enduring on our voyage. I longed for my family, and many were unkind. You did not have to help me with my chore, but you did. You spoke with me and smiled when you saw me. These things mean more to me than I can ever repay.

Chip nodded. Ye helped me as well. Ye reminded me that hope still be real when all seems dark.

Mr. Lew reached inside his coat and pulled out the small book he had given Chip while aboard the Ottoman. He made to offer it to Chip, but Chip held up a hand.

Nay. This be yers. Ye brought it with ye from Ireland.

The captain returned it to me after Mr. Blake tried to frame you with it. I wish for you to have it. He thrust the little book into Chip’s hands. Besides, I have another. Mr. Franklin has provided me with a new one. Please accept this as my parting gift to thee. May it remind you of hope should your path become dark once more.

Chip accepted the book, then shook his hand. Thank ye. I shall never forget thee.

Ready to return to the seas, Mr. Chips? James interjected. Ye should not keep the captain waiting.

Aye, Mr. Ritchie.

Chip bid farewell to the printing house as he accompanied his escort outside.

Where be the horses?

Ah, well, I thought walking down to the river this morning would be pleasant, Ben explained. Give us a fine opportunity to visit before you leave. Heaven knows that it would do me good to stretch my legs.

Mrs. Franklin and Sally waved from the doorway as Chip, James, Lightfoot, Mr. Franklin, and Mr. Hamilton headed towards the Delaware River. Chip’s chest swelled to be counted amongst what he considered an honorable company. They drew many glances and long stares as they traversed the bustling Philadelphia streets. The men walked in close formation to avoid becoming separated by the growing crowd of morning patrons and journeymen. The sun loomed high overhead by the time they reached the pier and the Ottoman that waited in the harbor. The gangplank that extended from the vessel buzzed with life as seamen loaded barrels of food and supplies aboard. At the bottom stood Captain O’Toole.

Welcome, gentlemen. Mr. Chips. Honored to count ye amongst me ranks once more. The captain shook Chip’s hand, then turned to greet the others. Mr. Franklin. Mr. Ritchie. Mr. Hamilton. Lightfoot. Good to see ye gentlemen this fine morning.

Ben extended his hand to the captain. Good to see you as well, Captain O’Toole. I trust that you have readied your ship for the voyage ahead.

Aye, I hath. Now that I hath me Sailing Master returned to me ranks. The captain gave Chip a wink.

Ben swallowed hard as he turned his eyes upon Chip. Well, kind sir, I dare say this is where we say farewell.

It hath been an honor. Chip extended his hand.

Ben grasped Chip’s outstretched hand, enclosing it with both of his. The honor has been all mine, Chip.

A hand closed on Chip’s shoulder. He turned to see Mr. Hamilton wearing the ghost of a smile on his face as he observed him. Mr. Hamilton extended his other hand.

Safe travels, Mr. Chips. May they swiftly see you home.

Chip shook his hand. Thank ye, Mr. Hamilton, for everything. I shall never forget thee.

Should you ever return, my door shall always be open.

Chip nodded. I shall remember. Give me best to yer household. He stressed the last word, earning him a smirk from the Lieutenant Governor.

I shall, Mr. Hamilton nodded.

Chip’s eyes burned as he turned to gaze upon his brother. He extended his hand, but Lightfoot gripped him by the forearm. Chip recognized his brother’s gesture and gripped his forearm as well.

The Great Spirit goes with you, Mantisow.

I shall never forget thee. Chip could feel a knot forming in his throat.

We shall always be together in spirit. Today, I shall sail with you over the great waters, and you shall ride with me to Lancaster. Lightfoot embraced Chip, then whispered in Gaelic, Humphrey, take care of my brother.

Humphrey’s nose poked out from beneath Chip’s collar, then vanished from view. Unable to speak, Chip sniffed as he patted Lightfoot on the shoulder.

Doth not expect a hug from me.

Chip cleared his throat as he turned to face James. Shall ye not miss yer former Sailing Master?

Nay. At least not until we reach the Port of Leith. Only then shall I miss thee.

Chip furrowed his brow. Port of Leith? But I thought—

Me life and post shall be here for me when I return. James turned to face the Lieutenant Governor. Correct, Mr. Hamilton?

Mr. Hamilton nodded. I shall always have room and posts for men like thee, Mr. Ritchie.

What of Aiyanna?

James spun back to face Chip. Alas, she saith that I hath one more voyage to make before I be ready to be with her. Swears that she shall wait for me. James winked. Quite the intelligent lass.

Chip smirked. One more time, then?

To the brink, Sailing Master Chips.

Did me ears deceive me? Captain O’Toole chimed in. Hath ye chosen to accept me offer?

James inclined his head. Aye, Captain. I hath chosen to make at least one more voyage with thee.

Excellent! The captain clapped his hands. Three aces in me hand, and the deck hath yet to be dealt!

Chip shook his head as he tossed his haversack over his shoulder. Then it be on aboard for us, Mr. Ritchie.

Aye, it be, Sailing Master, sir. James swept Chip a low bow.

Chip and James shook Ben, Lightfoot, and Mr. Hamilton’s hands one last time. Then, as Chip turned to take up the gangplank, a hand closed upon his shoulder. He turned to see that the hand belonged to Ben.

Stay well, Chip, until we meet again.

Chip nodded. Until we meet again.

What shall ye ever do until I return? James quipped to the company at large.

Mr. Hamilton scratched his chin. While we rest from our adventures, I shall dream up new tasks for your return.

Lightfoot straightened his hat. I shall enjoy the peace.

James laughed. Lightfoot? Did ye just make mirth?

Oh, I believe he is being truthful, Ben interjected as he patted James on the arm. As for me, I have a lost tavern to find.

Chip’s eyebrows rose as Ben gave him a wink.

Come now, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Hamilton called. We must allow these fine gentlemen to sail before the tide changes.

Ben nodded to Mr. Hamilton, shook the Captain and James’s hands, then stepped away to allow them passage up the gangplank. When Chip reached the topside, he lowered his haversack and looked back over the side. James mimicked his movements.

Fare thee well, Mr. Hamilton called out as the company waved goodbye.

Chip, James, and Captain O’Toole waved as well. Chip lingered near the rail as he watched the three men make their way back up the pier and disappear out of sight.

Humphrey poked his nose out from beneath Chip’s collar. Ye shall miss this land, Master?

Aye, I shall.

Ye shall what? James quipped.

Chip cleared his throat. I shall see ye swabbing the decks if ye doth not change into something befitting a member of the King’s Navy, Mr. Ritchie.

Aye, Sailing Master, James smirked as he gave him a salute, then headed down below.

Barking the orders already?

Chip turned to see Jeremiah standing behind him. Whipping him back into shape, Mr. Barrett. Doth not wish for him to forget his post.

Good to have you aboard once more. Jeremiah shook Chip’s hand as he patted him on the arm.

I see that the captain has his crew together for another passage across the sea.

Chip’s brow furrowed as he beheld the quartermaster. Indeed, he doth, Mr. Blake. Shall I assume that the nonsense from before be behind us?

Of course, Mr. Chips, the quartermaster cooed. Simple misunderstanding. I assure you that I harbor no ill will.

Chip shook the man’s hand, then watched as he headed below. Keep an eye on him, Mr. Barrett. He shall play his hand before this voyage be over.

Aye, Mr. Chips, Jeremiah nodded.

Until then, we hath a ship to prepare for the voyage. Hath the men up the masts and check the riggings. Would not be well for any mishaps to delay our departure.

A veteran assessment, Mr. Chips, but not necessary. Chip turned to see the captain standing two strides away. The men hath already checked the riggings this morn on me command.

Left me to wring me hands, Captain?

There shall be plenty to do once we hoist anchor, Mr. Chips. Doth not let the calm waters of the river deceive thee. Mother awaits beyond the bay, and we hath a long journey ahead.

Aye, Captain.

Chip peered down the river towards the bend as images from their last voyage flashed before his eyes. He knew that the way home held many unseen perils. He straightened his tricorn hat, then breathed in the crisp cool air that only the sea provided as he turned to face his friend.

Ready for one more voyage together, Mr. Barrett?

Jeremiah smiled. Aye, Mr. Chips. If there be but one more, then let us sail.

2

Pettiness And Positions

The sun loomed high in the sky as the seamen churned the anchor wheels. Once the crew had secured the anchors, they brought the sails to half-mast. The mighty vessel’s shadow fell across the river waters as the bow of the Ottoman turned to the southeast and for the bay beyond the bend.

For Chip, this would be the second time he had journeyed this narrow stretch. However, Jeremiah and the crew navigated the way with ease. They moved with instinct as they guided the mighty vessel into the current.

How many times did ye journey this way in me absence?

Jeremiah sighed. More than I can number. I never thought I would long for the open waters of the sea, but I have grown tired of this river and the bay. I should wager that I now know the passage better than I know the North Sea.

Doth I detect grumblings this early into our voyage, Mr. Barrett?

Jeremiah straightened his cap while keeping one hand on the wheel. Nay, Captain.

Captain O’Toole smirked. Good. How long till we make open waters?

With a good wind, we should make open waters by the evening, sir.

Excellent, Mr. Chips. Once we reach the mouth, bring us about to the north and set yer course for Boston.

Chip cleared his throat. Sir, did ye saith Boston?

Aye. The captain studied Chip’s eyes. General Stevens wishes that we deliver some goods to London. It should delay our journey across the pond but a day or two. He walked over to the stairs, then paused. Mr. Chips. When ye hath yer duties squared away, come see me in me quarters.

Aye, sir. Chip watched as the captain made his way down and across the top deck, stopping to speak with crew members.

Do you know what the captain wishes?

Chip turned back to the wheel. Aye. He wishes to hear of me travels from me own lips. Though I truly doubt that he hath not already heard.

I would like to hear your tale myself. Jeremiah rubbed his chin. Not many can claim to hath helped bring peace to a borough on the brink with a village of local natives.

Chip’s mouth fell open. Surely that be not what the captain be spreading about!

Jeremiah shouted something up to the crow’s nest, then returned his attention to Chip. More or less. He claims that you rode to Lancaster on a mission to quench the fires of war and uncover a French conspiracy. Be this true or not?

I did ride to Lancaster as part of a company, but not to uncover a French conspiracy.

Did you uncover such?

Chip nodded. Aye, but not of any design.

Design or not, you did accomplish such. And as we both know, this be all that our good captain needs.

Chip rubbed