The Mayflower Bride

by Kimberley Woodhouse

  With the open ocean before him, William looked to the sky. If God existed the way Paul believed—the way Mary Elizabeth and John believed—then maybe it was worth asking questions and educating himself.

  Peter watched William with a close eye. The man never seemed to do anything untoward or questionable.

  Who was the carpenter, anyway? Maybe there was something in the man’s past. Something that would plant a seed of doubt.

  Once they were on board from Southampton, Peter had hoped he’d have a chance to go through Lytton’s things, but William chose too good of a location for his quarters. Then when he’d given up his spot for that Chapman family, Peter thought maybe he had another chance. With all the people milling about, certainly, he could disappear and look …

  But no. So far he hadn’t had any luck.

  Well, he had the whole voyage to put his plan into action. Maybe he just needed to sit back and be patient.

  The time would come.

  Saturday, 9 September 1620

  “The sea is calm, Mary Elizabeth.” Father looked down from his crouched position. “As long as you and I have a good hold of David, nothing can happen to him. I think the fresh air will do him some good.”

  “Please, Mary Elizabeth?” The illness had made her little brother’s voice scratchy and weak.

  Looking from him to Father made her realize how overprotective she’d become. Maybe this was another chance to show courage. “All right. Let’s head up to the main deck together.” She stood from her kneeling position and pointed a finger in David’s direction. “But you must promise me that you will not let go under any circumstances.”

  “I promise.” The twinkle in his eye lifted her spirit.

  She hadn’t seen it in a fortnight—or more. “I’ve been longing for a bit of fresh air myself.”

  “And sunshine.” Father chuckled.

  “Yes, and sunshine.” Helping David with his shoes, Mary Elizabeth realized how thin he had become. “We need to fatten you up, young man.”

  “That won’t be a problem. I’m starving and could eat a whole loaf of bread by myself.” He rubbed his stomach.

  “Well, we don’t have any loaves of bread, but let’s see what we can find.” Mary Elizabeth shook her head. Her brother’s active personality had often gotten on her nerves before, but now she would be thankful for it. After watching him be almost lifeless for so long, she wouldn’t trade his energy for anything in the world.

  “I’ll meet you at the steps.” Father tousled David’s hair.

  The way to the companionway was dim—another ship with no windows on the gun deck—but her eyes had grown accustomed to the lack of light. When she saw the sun shining down from above, she couldn’t get there fast enough.

  “Not so fast, Mary Elizabeth.” Her little brother tugged at her hand.

  Slowing her pace, she smiled. “I’m sorry. Is this better?”

  “Yes, much.”

  “Before long, I won’t be able to keep up with you.”

  “You couldn’t keep up with me before I got sick, Mary Elizabeth. It must be because you’re a girl.”

  “I beg your pardon?” Laughter bubbled up. And it felt good.

  “You’re a lot older too.”

  “Is that so?”

  “Yup, you’re more than twice my age. Old people don’t move very fast.”

  “You little imp.” She stopped and pulled on his hand so he would face her. “Then I think we need to make a deal.”

  “What kinda deal?”

  Mary Elizabeth tapped her lip with her forefinger. “Hmmm. I think we should see just how ‘old’ I am when we get to our new home. We’ll have a race and see who is faster. But that means you have to eat everything I tell you so you grow big and strong.”

  His giggles floated around her. “You’ll never beat me. I’m too fast.”

  “We will just have to see about that, now won’t we?” Tugging on his hand, she nodded toward the steps. “But no running today, all right? Master Jones said it isn’t safe for the children to run up there.”

  “Yes, Mary Elizabeth.”

  “Good.” The companionways on ships were not much more than a glorified ladder. What with all her petticoats and skirt, climbing up was always a cumbersome chore. If only there was a blue-eyed gentleman named William waiting for her at the top to offer a hand again. She shook her head. She probably needed to repent of all the thoughts she had of Mr. Lytton. Goodness, she’d only met him once.

  At the top, she reached down for David. “Come on up, it’s a beautiful day.”

  His ascent was slow but steady, and it thrilled Mary Elizabeth’s heart to see him moving so well.

  “Hold on to my hand now.” She straightened to her full height and squinted in the bright light. Stretching her legs felt better than anything had in a long while. Looking down at David, she caught his smile.

  “This is a big ship, isn’t it, Mary Elizabeth?”

  “It’s bigger than the Speedwell, yes.”

  “How much?”

  “About three times bigger.”

  Mary Elizabeth held a hand above her eyes to shield them from the sun. Days without bright light had made her eyes sensitive. Several groups of people stood around the small deck. Master Jones had made sure that everyone knew the rules. If the seas became at all rough, no one but the crew was allowed on the main deck. He didn’t want to risk anyone getting washed overboard or getting in the way of the sailors as they did their jobs.

  They were fortunate to have beautiful weather right now. It gave them the opportunity to walk around upright and be out in the fresh air.

  Father nodded at her and reached for David’s other hand. “Let’s get some exercise, shall we?”

  At eight years old, her brother was still a small boy, but he wouldn’t stay that way for long. Mary Elizabeth relished the feel of his small hand in her own. She’d never take for granted the time she was given with him. Not after almost losing him.

  And then there was Father.

  The stoic man God had blessed her with was beginning to show age that would attest to him being a much older man. The past year since Mother died had taken its toll on him. Gray sprinkled his dark hair, and lines around his eyes gave evidence of his penchant for smiling and laughter.

  But there hadn’t been as much of either since her mother had died. Mary Elizabeth longed to see him return to his jovial self. A new thought struck her—would Father ever remarry?

  He definitely wasn’t an ancient man beyond marrying—not even forty years of age.

  “What are your thoughts, Mary Elizabeth? Your brow is quite quizzical …” Father’s voice intruded on her thoughts and made the heat rise in her cheeks. Could she tell him?

  David laughed and pulled on her hand. “Her face is turning red, Father, look.”

  Best to tell the truth. She couldn’t allow them to think she was thinking anything unworthy. “I was thinking of Mother…and if you’d ever marry again.”

  Father’s face softened a bit.

  Mary Elizabeth couldn’t decipher the emotions that seemed to spread across his features. Her father had always been so strong—and so in love with their mother.

  “Your mother was a wonderful woman. No one could ever compare.” Facing forward, his shoulders stiffened.

  “I’m sorry, Father.”

  No response.

  Even David ducked his head and kept his eyes down. Would they ever be able to talk about it without being overtaken by pain and grief?

  Silence surrounded their little family as they walked in a slow pace around the deck.

  Father looked at her. “It seems David is doing quite well. I need to discuss some things with Elder Brewster.”

  His desire to depart was all her fault. She’d wounded the man she loved and adored above anyone else. “That is fine, Father.” While Elder Brewster was the head of their congregation because Pastor Robinson had stayed in Holland to prepare the others to join them in Virginia, Mary Elizab
eth wasn’t so sure what could be so important.

  Other than avoiding the topic she’d voiced.

  “Don’t let go of your sister, young man.” Father gave his stern look to David.

  “No, sir. I won’t.” The power in David’s voice surprised Mary Elizabeth. After just a few short minutes, he already seemed stronger. Or maybe it was just for her benefit—since she knew she’d hurt them both with her words.

  “Good, good.” Father nodded and walked toward a group of men from their congregation.

  Mary Elizabeth tightened her grip on David’s hand. Things needed to turn around. “Where would you like to go next?”

  “To the front.”

  “To the bow?”

  “Yes.” David wasn’t overly talkative.

  Mary Elizabeth understood, even though her heart ached to hear his happy chatter. Why did she have to bring up Mother?

  Taking slow steps, Mary Elizabeth thought of ways to shift David’s attention.

  While there wasn’t a lot of room to meander, Mary Elizabeth enjoyed being outside. The crates of animals were fun to see. Goats, chickens, pigs, and a couple of dogs resided on the main deck. Maybe she could engage David that way.

  “Can you make the sound of a pig?” She stopped in front of one particular crate.

  Her little brother looked up at her and then back to the animal. “I’m not sure…but I can make the sound of a rooster, I think.”

  “Why don’t you give it a try. Let’s go see the chickens.”

  “Maybe it would be better to cluck like the chickens.”

  “Whatever you want to try.” Mary Elizabeth watched as David crouched by the crate.

  He clucked at them and giggled at the random noises they made back at him.

  She tugged at his hand to resume their walk. At least he’d laughed.

  When they reached the bow, Mary Elizabeth spotted two familiar figures. She sucked in a breath.

  “Mary Elizabeth, what’s wrong?” David’s pull at her hand made her look down.

  “Not a thing. I’m sorry. I just wanted more fresh air.”

  But by the time she finished speaking, two pairs of boots entered her vision.

  “Good morning, Miss Chapman. Such a pleasure to see you again.” Mr. Alden greeted her. “This must be young David that we’ve heard so much about.”

  The comment puzzled her. “Good day to you, Mr. Alden. How have you heard about David?”

  “Your charming friend—Dorothy—has kept us apprised of the situation.”

  No doubt she had. Dorothy could regale anyone with her stories. She never seemed to run out of words.

  Mr. Lytton stepped closer and looked at her brother. “I’m so thankful to hear you are recovered.”

  “Thank you, sir.” David gave a slight bow. “I’m David Chapman.”

  “Yes, I know.” Mr. Lytton looked up at Mary Elizabeth and smiled before he looked back down at her brother. He put a hand to his chest and bowed. “And I am William Lytton. This is my friend, John Alden, the cooper of the ship.”

  “Nice to know you both. But what’s a…cooper?” David’s curiosity energized his voice.

  As John answered, Mary Elizabeth enjoyed watching her little brother. He, of course, had more questions, and the men were patient in their answers. But the thrill at seeing William again caused the blood to pound in her ears. A feeling she hadn’t had ever before. Everything in her cried out to stare at the man who’d offered his hand the first time they met. But she forced herself to keep her eyes focused on David. And snuck a peek here and there at the handsome man. The racing of her heart only caused her breaths to be short. Why was she so nervous? Maybe they would keep talking until she could calm down and trust herself to speak in a normal manner. Maybe then she could get to know the intriguing Mr. Lytton a little better.

  CHAPTER 7

  The look on young David’s face as John explained his job as a cooper made William smile. But Mary Elizabeth appeared uncomfortable.

  “What do you do, Mr. Lytton?” The young boy’s enthusiasm was contagious.

  “I’m a carpenter.” William smiled at him and then peeked at Mary Elizabeth.

  “So that’s how you knew so much about Mr. Alden’s job too. You both work with wood and build things.” David scrunched up his brow. “I might like to do that when I’m older.”

  “I’m sure you’d be very good at it.” John patted the child’s head.

  Memories washed over William. He was barely older than this boy when he’d been left on the streets to fend for himself. But seeing the lad hold tight to his sister’s hand gave William a thankful heart. His desire would be that no child ever go through what he’d endured.

  “William’s done beautiful work.” John’s words cut into his thoughts.

  “Mr. Lytton.” Mary Elizabeth’s soft voice drew his attention upward. “Could you tell us some of the items you’ve made?”

  As he listed off some of his most recent pieces, he watched her face. Deep brown eyes stared into his own. Her skin was quite fair, and he saw a few blond locks of hair attempting to escape her starched linen cap. The red of her woolen cape set off the loveliness of her full, red mouth. If he wasn’t careful, he’d be caught staring.

  “Have you ever built a ship?” Little David’s question made his attention turn back to the boy. The lad twisted and turned under Mary Elizabeth’s arm.

  “No. Not yet. But my master taught me some of the best techniques.”

  The younger Chapman swung the hand that held his sister’s. Always movement, even though he’d just recovered from sickness. The energy of youth. “Do you think you could build one as big as the ark?”

  Mary Elizabeth chuckled at the question and then covered her mouth.

  John tapped William’s elbow with his own. “We were just discussing the ark this morning, weren’t we?”

  “Well…could ya?” David persisted.

  “It’s plausible that yes, I could build a ship that size, but I’m not sure what I would use it for—do you have any ideas?” Maybe the way to get to know Mary Elizabeth would be through this boy. William shrugged. It was worth a try.

  “It sure would hold a lot more than this ship. So we could bring lots of animals and people to the New World, and we could teach them about the Bible.” He rubbed his chin. “But the ark didn’t have any sails, so I wonder if it would work.”

  John knelt in front of David. “You’re correct, it didn’t have sails, at least from the description in Genesis. And if I understood the passage, they didn’t direct where the boat was going—that was God’s job. But those are very intelligent thoughts.”

  “Mr. Alden, would you like to build a boat as big as the ark?” The boy never seemed to run out of questions.

  “I think that would be a fun project, but remember, it took Noah one hundred years to build the ark, and I would need Mr. Lytton’s help. He’s better at that kind of work.”

  William watched Mary Elizabeth as John and David continued to discuss the ark.

  She turned to gaze back at him. “Thank you. You are very kind to indulge him.” Her voice had lowered in volume.

  He moved a step closer so he could hear her better. “He’s a wonderful boy. I’m very glad to see he’s doing so much better. You must have been pretty worried.”

  An expression he couldn’t decipher flittered across her features as she looked down at her brother and then back into his eyes. “Yes. After we lost our mother last year, I couldn’t bear the thought of losing him as well.”

  “I’m so sorry about your mother.”

  Tears appeared at the corners of her eyes. The sheen made her eyes all the more beautiful and rich. “Thank you. I fear my father has suffered the worst of it, although losing Mother was the worst thing I’ve ever been through. But thankfully we have our faith, and the Lord has taken care of us.”

  What would it be like to have such faith? “It must be very difficult for a husband to lose his wife.”

  “Yes. H
e loved her very much.” She bit her bottom lip and paused for several moments. “Where are you from, Mr. Lytton?”

  “Please, call me William. And I’m from London.” Not wishing to give anything away, he kept his answer vague. Lots of people were from London.

  “Well, I’m not sure it would be appropriate to be so familiar quite yet to use your Christian name. I haven’t known you very long.” An attractive blush swept up her cheeks.

  “My apologies. I do not wish to offend.” How did a man go about getting to know a woman? Paul never gave him any training in courting. He’d made sure his young charge knew the manners of society, but that was the extent of his advice. Besides, Dorothy had insisted that John and William use her Christian name.

  “There’s nothing to apologize for, Mr. Lytton.” She looked down at her hand—still swinging with her brother’s. But the boy was engrossed in conversation with John.

  What a good friend. Taking the time to talk to a child so William would have the opportunity to talk to Mary Elizabeth. He’d have to thank his friend later. “I’d love to get to know you better, Miss Chapman.” The words were out before he could stop them.

  The pink in her cheeks deepened. “I’d like that.” She cleared her throat. “Did I understand correctly that you and Mr. Alden have been discussing the scriptures?”

  The question made his heart sink. How much did he tell her? As one of the Saints, she may look down upon him if he didn’t share her beliefs. Choosing to be vague once again, he pasted on a smile. “Yes. It’s been very enlightening discussion.”

  “Do you do that often?”

  “Of late, yes. There’s more time for it while we are on the ship. But John has been hired to do a job as we sail, so he gets called away often to take care of the barrels.”

  She nodded and tilted her head to the right. “I see. I know we are all thankful—especially since those barrels hold our food stores.” Her bottom lip crept into her mouth again.

  William found it very appealing—the way she did that seemed to indicate another question was on its way.

  “What made you decide to go to the New World with us?” She smiled.