Page 31 of The Salamander

Captain Haraden stood on the wharf, not far away, his sea cloak drawn tight against the March wind, returning greetings with nods and brief words, and conferring with his new first lieutenant, Israel Thorndike, to whom Eunice had only just been introduced. The first officer was tall and broad-shouldered, young but with an alertness about him that marked him as more than a seaman. A year ago, Captain Haraden had been a first lieutenant. Today, he bore the full weight of command. Eunice and his whole family were very proud of him.

John Fisk, brisk and booming beside the new captain, barked last-minute orders to his own officers aboard the Massachusetts before turning to clap Captain Haraden’s shoulder. “The tide waits for no man. Let’s show His Majesty what two Salem brigantines can do. As soon as the good reverend blesses our ships, we’ll be off.”

Johnny Deadman came running down the gangplank to Captain Haraden’s side. “Your cabin is all in order sir,” he said breathlessly. “Your chest is in place and your instruments and books are set where you told me you like them.”

Captain Haraden placed his hand on the boy’s shoulder. “Good lad, Johnny.”

Hannah tugged at her bonnet, breathless with excitement, while Polly wriggled in Eunice’s arms, more interested in the bustle than the ships. Eunice’s parents had joined them. Her father, Reverend James Diman, grave in his black preaching robe, stood nearby, a dark figure against the gray harbor. Beside him, the face of her mother, Mary Diman, softened with concern. They had come to see the ships off and to pray for their successful return.

Eunice’s mother bent close to Eunice, her voice low but insistent. “You have done well with Captain Haraden’s children and household,” she said gently, “but at twenty-five you are still young. In time, should you wish it, you might think of marrying again.”

Eunice adjusted Polly in her arms. “This is where God has me, Mother. This is where I belong. They need me.” She kept her eyes on Captain Haraden, knowing her answer was true, whatever her future might hold.

“Very well,” said her mother. Her glance flicked toward Captain Haraden. “There will be suitors enough when you are ready.”

When all was prepared, Eunice’s father stepped forward, his black preaching robe blown back by the raw March wind. He lifted his voice above the harbor noise, and the crowd hushed as he prayed aloud, commending the ships and their crews to God’s keeping, asking for courage, for wisdom, and for triumph over the foe. His words rolled out strong and certain, the same cadence Eunice remembered from her youth.

Captain Haraden crossed the short distance to his family, bending to press a kiss to Hannah’s brow before turning to Polly in Eunice’s arms. He kissed the little girl’s cheek, and in doing so, his head came so near to Eunice’s that she caught the clean salt scent of the sea still clinging to him. For an instant her breath quickened, then she took hold of herself, dismissing the feeling as swiftly as it came. “Mind your lessons, my girl,” he said to Hannah, his voice calm as his eyes softened. “Do all Mrs. Mason asks of you.”

“I will, Papa,” Hannah whispered fiercely. “Bring us back a prize!”

He chuckled. “I will certainly try.” Then he turned to Eunice, Martha and Silas. The din of the harbor faded, and there was only his quiet gaze meeting hers. “The house is in good hands,” he told them. His gaze rested on each in turn before settling on Eunice. “I’ll not worry while I’m at sea. Not while you hold those I love.”

“You have our prayers,” Eunice answered, her tone calm, though she felt her heart clench.

Martha sniffed and muttered, “Best be bringin’ back more than prayers.”

Silas gave a gruff chuckle, lifting a hand in salute.

The sailors cheered when Captain Haraden strode up the gangplank, and the bos’n’s whistle trilled. Lines were cast off, canvas climbed the masts, and with the captain’s orders, the Tyrannicide eased from her berth.

The brigantines stood out together, bowsprits cutting eastward, sails swelling white against the pale sky. From the deck, Captain Haraden lifted his hand in farewell. The crowd’s cheer rose as they waved.

On the wharf, Hannah raised her voice high and clear. “God keep you, Papa!”

“Yes, good captain,” Eunice whispered, “God keep you.”