Darcy's Voyage: A tale of uncharted love on the open seas

by Kara Louise

  With land no longer visible, the ship was completely surrounded by a vast array of blues from both the sky above and the sea below. Each was dotted with splays of white, in the puffy clouds and the tips of the waves as the ship glided through the water. The weather was comfortably warm, but the constant breeze demanded that she wear her shawl. She hugged it closer to herself as a chill swept through her. Whether it was from the breeze or a disquieting feeling, she could not settle on.

  At length, she decided to make her way back down the steps to her quarters to unpack her belongings. With each step that took her farther down into the dark bowels of the ship, her heart tightened. When she had come down here earlier with her father, she had assured him that the accommodations were adequate and she would manage comfortably in them. But in reality, she hoped she would not have to be confined to this place very often, as it was dark, dank, and very musty smelling.

  It was not that the ship’s accommodations were inferior or unclean, but it soon became apparent that it was considerably crowded with people in a tightly confined space. There was very little room to move. They had been assured that the steerage accommodations on Pemberley’s Promise were among the finest. Now, however, with the quarters being filled with people, luggage hauled in, and the first indications of sea sickness taking hold, the conditions rapidly deteriorated. In an environment such as this, even the finest accommodations would become daunting. Elizabeth found herself wondering how she would fare down here for any considerable amount of time.

  When her aunt and uncle invited her and Jane to join them in America, the Gardiners offered to pay for the return voyage if the Bennets could pay for the voyage over. As it turned out, Jane determined she would not be able to make the long voyage over. Elizabeth, anxious to make the journey, but knowing her family had not the means to spend a vast deal on a trip such as this, insisted they purchase the least expensive ticket for her. That meant she would have to travel in steerage.

  As she returned to her simple bed, she readily and easily greeted those around her. This confined compartment for ladies and children would be her home for at least the next month. She sat down upon her bunk, absently smoothing it with a wipe of her hand. A simple pillow, sheet, and two coverlets upon a thin mattress were to be the extent of her bedding down here. This was a big difference from the soft, comfortable bed overflowing with thick quilts and blankets in which she normally slept. She was grateful she had brought along an extra light coverlet in case it was needed.

  Elizabeth soon struck up a conversation with a woman who was in the bed next to hers. Mrs. Rawlings was travelling to America with her husband and two daughters, Pauline, who was five, and Penelope, who was seven. She was four months with child, and her husband was in the other half of steerage with the men. In talking with her, Elizabeth was surprised to discover that her children and a few others were doubled up in the beds.

  When Pauline began complaining of feeling ill, Elizabeth offered to entertain Penelope while Mrs. Rawlings looked after Pauline.

  Little Penelope boldly handed Elizabeth a book she had brought along with her and eagerly climbed up onto her lap, squirming to get comfortable. Elizabeth obliged this little girl who was very close in age to her aunt and uncle Gardiner’s daughter, Amanda. When Elizabeth made extended stays with the Gardiners in London, she enjoyed entertaining her little cousins and, sensing that Mrs. Rawlings had her hands full with Pauline, was grateful that little Penelope was warming up to her very nicely.

  Fortunately, Elizabeth knew the story well, for the light coming down the open hatch was dim. She told the story to Penelope with much animation, securing the young girl’s affections and approval. Upon finishing, Elizabeth inquired of Mrs. Rawlings whether she would consent to both of them going up on deck to get some fresh air. Mrs. Rawlings heartily agreed, which allowed her to concentrate fully on trying to help her other daughter feel more comfortable.

  Elizabeth held on to the little girl’s hand tightly as they ascended the three flights of stairs and came up to the top deck of the ship. Elizabeth savoured the fresh air as she took in a deep breath, taking delight in the sights about her. There was a gentle wind propelling them forward, and to Elizabeth’s novice eyes, it appeared as though every sail was unfurled. The sailors seemed to have an excellent knowledge of what was required of them, and she watched in delight as they climbed up and down the rigging. It reminded her of the acrobats at the circus she had seen once in town, who climbed the ropes with ease and with seemingly no sense of fear that they might fall.

  Penelope, confined so long in steerage, was anxious to get out and run. Elizabeth was afraid to let go of the young child’s hand, so she walked briskly while Penelope ran alongside of her, occasionally breaking into a trot herself. She enjoyed being up on deck again and relished the opportunity to expend some of her own energy and pent-up emotions she had been feeling since leaving the coast of England.

  Elizabeth knew the only way she would be able to enjoy herself for the duration of the month on this ship was if she could be up on the deck and walk. It was something she enjoyed immensely at home, and hoped the weather would oblige them and be favourable enough for a brisk walk frequently upon the deck.

  Suddenly Penelope squealed and called out, “Daddy!”

  Elizabeth looked up and saw a young man rush over to Penelope, sweeping her up in his arms. “Hey, there is my little girl!” He swung her around. “Where are Pauline and Mother?” He glanced questioningly at Elizabeth.

  Penelope answered. “Polly is not feeling well, and Mother is taking care of her. Miss Bennet is taking me for a walk on the boat.”

  “Excuse me, sir, but I am Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Your wife is tending Pauline who is feeling a bit unsettled, so I offered to bring Penelope up to allow her to get some fresh air and exercise.”

  “That is very kind of you, Miss Bennet. I am Jack Rawlings.”

  “It is a pleasure, Mr. Rawlings.”

  Penelope held on to her father’s hand and twirled around him as they talked. Elizabeth laughed at the playfulness and endless energy of this young girl.

  Her father looked down at her as she continued to dance around him. “Penny, remember what we told you. You must engage in calm and quiet activities while on the ship.”

  “I am afraid, sir, that, if she is anything like me, she will need to engage in some brisk activity occasionally to make up for the confinement down below.”

  “She is a lively young girl.”

  “I have noticed.”

  He proceeded to ask Elizabeth about how his wife and daughter were faring. She was drawn to his easy manner and evident care and concern for his family.

  ***

  Darcy wandered into the eating area, a large room filled with tables and benches, where the meals would be served and people could congregate and visit. He walked in hoping to find something light to eat or drink and discovered, much to his consternation, that it was filled with noisy travellers who, for the most part, and upon his initial assessment, appeared unpolished and hailed from exceedingly low connections. Most were engaged in conversation, either with friends or family with whom they were travelling or with new acquaintances they had made since coming aboard.

  He looked around for some obscure place to sit down where he could be by himself, but none was to be found. People were spread out everywhere and it was irritatingly loud. He scanned the crowd, and not observing anyone whose manners or company looked inviting, at once began to feel uncomfortable. He was able to secure some tea for himself and walked toward the outer wall, one which was dotted with small windows looking out to the deck.

  He gazed out the small window as he drank the tea, leaning against the wall with one shoulder, tilting his head as he looked out at the people walking by on the deck. Over the years he had become proficient at putting on this façade of aloofness which, as a rule, allowed him the privacy and solitude that afforded him personal comfort. He suddenly realized he was watching the movements of the lady
he had encountered earlier, walking by with a child.

  His eyes narrowed as he witnessed this, straining his neck to watch them proceed toward the front of the ship. She was holding on to the young girl’s hand, walking along with her and occasionally allowing herself to slip into a skip or a run. He found himself unexpectedly drawn to her vivacious and unreserved nature. She seemed not at all concerned what others might think of her actions.

  With his mind engaged on the scene playing out before him, he gradually became aware of someone standing next to him, disturbing his preoccupation and speculations.

  He turned to see a woman standing by his side. She was definitely striking, more so in a fashionable than handsome way. She had been gazing off across the room, but when he turned his eyes upon her, she met his gaze and knowingly mistook it as a sign of the gentleman’s interest.

  “Good afternoon, sir.” He was taken aback by her forwardness. “What a relief it is to finally find someone onboard this ship who obviously frequents the same circles in society as I! I can certainly guess your thoughts at the moment. You are thinking how insupportable it will be to spend a month in such tedious company as found on this ship.”

  Darcy’s jaw tightened as he pondered his response. “Your assessment is more correct than you would imagine.”

  She smiled, pleased with his apparent agreement. “My name is Eleanor Brewster.” She held out her hand, extended with her palm down, in hopes that he might take it and bestow a kiss upon the top of her hand.

  She was more than disappointed when he merely answered, “I am Fitzwilliam Darcy,” and gave a quick, short bow.

  Despite her disappointment, she asked, “Are you travelling with family?” She looked around him and quickly added, “Are your wife and children with you?” She put on a smile that was intended to evoke a response.

  Darcy eyed her suspiciously and felt the all too familiar sense of discomfiture come over him as she continued her ploy of persuasion. The very fact that she claimed to frequent the same circles of society as himself, yet was completely disregarding the dictates of that society by approaching him and beginning a conversation with him, appalled him. She obviously thought herself above the good manners of polite society, having the unrivalled audacity to approach him so boldly.

  Every movement of hers was meant to entice and ensnare, but Darcy was more annoyed than allured. He forced a civil smile upon his face and offered a simple, “I am travelling alone.”

  This pleased her greatly. Desiring nothing more than to continue the conversation, she asked, “May I inquire, sir, as to why you are heading to the colonies?”

  Darcy, lacking all desire to continue this conversation or encourage this woman, replied with a paramount lack of enthusiasm, “Strictly to retrieve my sister and then return to England as soon as possible.”

  “Oh, sir, what a kind brother you must be! To have such concern for your sister, to give up at least two months of your life to travel to and fro…” Her hand went up to her neck and she fingered a rather large brooch that hung there as she calculated her next comment. “But perhaps, Mr. Darcy, while you are there, you might find the need for a companion to show you around. I would be…”

  “I think not,” Darcy interrupted.

  His response was not the one she wished for. Darcy felt a surge of agitation infuse throughout his body and he impatiently excused himself, bowed, and turned away. He quickly finished the tea and set his cup down, anxious to put as much distance as he could between this woman and himself.

  As he quickly headed for the door, an older man and his wife entered, followed by a young lady in her late teens. The older man greeted him and immediately introduced himself.

  “Good day, sir. My name is Gerald Summers.” He extended his hand and Darcy reluctantly, but civilly, extended his.

  “Fitzwilliam Darcy,” was his only response.

  Summers jovially expressed his pleasure at making the acquaintance. “And may I introduce my wife, Henrietta Summers, and my lovely daughter, Miss Angela Summers.”

  Darcy bowed to both, sensing that the father and mother were eyeing him and going through a checklist of sorts of eligible suitors for their young daughter. He sensed uneasiness rather than eagerness, however, in the young girl’s demeanour.

  “May I assume that you are travelling alone, sir?” Mr. Summers inquired.

  Darcy nodded reluctantly. “You assume correctly.”

  “Good, good! You can complete our table tonight at whist. Can we count on you?”

  Darcy took in a deep breath. His natural tendency would lead him to brusquely brush him aside and not give a second thought about putting him in his place. But he knew spending a month with the same people in the confines of this ship required him to make more of an effort at civility, so replied, “Thank you, Mr. Summers, but I rarely play. If you will excuse me…”

  Darcy removed himself from a most discomfiting situation for the second time in just a few minutes. As he walked past them, he sighed. How am I ever going to endure a month on this ship without keeping myself sequestered in my cabin?

  Darcy walked out, eager for some fresh air before he finally succumbed to temptation to return to the solitary confines of his small, private room.

  It has begun, he groaned to himself, and it was only the first day.

  He absently found himself turning in the direction in which he had seen the young lady and the child earlier, but apparently she was no longer up on deck.

  ***

  Later that afternoon, the captain made his way down to steerage to address the ladies. When he came in, he welcomed them to his ship and informed them that he had come to give some general guidelines for travelling aboard Pemberley’s Promise .

  “Ladies, I know that some of you have husbands in the men’s steerage compartment, but I do not want you to think that this announcement is not intended for you. I have some things to say to all the women as commonsense guidelines, and you would be wise to listen. I am especially directing this to those women who are travelling unescorted, however. I strive to make this ship and the journey we are on a safe and pleasant one. But I cannot guarantee the character of everyone onboard this ship. Of my crew, I will say without doubt that they will behave as gentlemen around the ladies. If I hear word otherwise, they will suffer severe penalties. But as for the other passengers on this ship, I cannot vouch for them all. Therefore I say this to every woman. Do not walk around this ship after dark unescorted. I can only guarantee your safety to a degree. Again, if there is any impropriety that you become aware of, please inform me. If there is anything you need, please let me know.”

  The captain ended by giving instructions for various things they would need to know for this voyage, ending with meals. The meals were served in a large dining area that would also be available to lounge in during the day and into the evening. He gave them the hours meals would be served, along with some other essential information, answered some questions, and then left.

  After the captain departed, Elizabeth found her way to the large dining room. She seated herself at a table with some women she had met in steerage who were now joined by their husbands. She enjoyed making their acquaintance and conversing with them.

  The meal that night, as it would be for only a few days, consisted of some fresh meat and vegetables, a little fruit, and a light bread. They had been told, however, that due to the length of time at sea, they would eventually have to subsist on dried, salted meat, hardtack biscuits, and some hardy vegetable such as potatoes. Most other vegetables and fruits, unless dried, would spoil.

  Elizabeth glanced out of the corner of her eye at the tall man in the far corner of the room who had so earnestly expressed his views to the captain earlier about the lower class citizenry of the passengers. He was unquestionably holding to a position of superiority, as he seemed loath to assemble with the others and make new acquaintances. But there was something else about him that puzzled her. She could not place it at the moment, but his look and
posture suggested something else, as well. It intrigued her and she was determined she would figure it out by the time they reached the American shore.

  She settled into an easy conversation with a young lady just about her age who was travelling with her husband. Her name was Jenna Michelson, and Elizabeth discovered that when they arrived in America they would make their way to the Dakotas, where her husband’s brother owned some land. Elizabeth listened in awe as Jenna read a letter from her brother-in-law describing the winters there. They would be housebound for days, even weeks on end, when severe snowstorms came upon them.

  “And this is your dream, to live in such a place as this?” asked Elizabeth incredulously.

  Jenna smiled and nodded softly. “It is the only way. We had no hope for a better life in England. At least here we shall have some land and our own home.”

  Elizabeth smiled sympathetically. She was grateful for Longbourn, their modest home, yet knew that unless one of her sisters made a marriage with someone of fortune, they had little hope for much more. With their home entailed to a distant cousin, whom they had never even met because of a family dispute between her father and his father, they could hardly hope that Longbourn would always be there for them.

  Jenna interrupted Elizabeth’s thoughts. “We saved for years, giving up many things so we could make this trip. For us this trip means everything.” The young friend looked over at the gentleman sitting off by himself. “We sacrificed quite a lot to make this voyage. For that gentleman,” she discreetly motioned toward him, “it was probably no sacrifice at all for him to take this trip.”