“Grady clearly remembers the days of running hard of foot and fleet of mind. He often told me it was in those times he found solace from the words of a brave Seminole chief. His Anglicized name was Walking Water. Grady met him after escaping from a village along the Suwannee River down south. It was during that time Walking Water said something to him that I think is appropriate right now.”
“And what did he say Fletcher?” asked a curious Dainty.
“Grady said he told him this. “Remember when the dark clouds of unsettled temperament gather overhead, we must find cover in the shelter of a knowing heart.” I asked Grady what he meant, but he said I would have to come to my own conclusion.”
“Did you ever figure it out?” inquired a puzzled Fortune.
“Many days later I realized Walking Water meant we should all have the courage to hold strong to our truest convictions. One cannot be dissuaded by fear in times of uncertainty.
“I feel your decision is made from that same knowing heart. Your family cannot reach its potential in a society where one hand is always tied behind the back. I just hope Resting Arms has a place in your best memories.”
At that moment, Fletcher took Fortune in an emotional embrace. Here was the postscript to a long journey of deep mutual respect, founded in dank backwater stretches at Bitter Man. Yet once again, circumstances split apart that seventh run of escapees. As Dainty and Fletcher exchanged a warm hug, Fortune voiced a last regret.
“It’s too bad Rodney wasn’t here to see us off. It still doesn’t sit well with me. He deserved one last goodbye. We would have loved to see him again.”
“I understand. When I learned the news, I went out to Ellenwood on my way to Shelburne. I tried to convince him to come out here. Rodney told me you and Dainty would understand. He looks upon your departure as a passing. He’s now in bereavement. A major part of his personal life has been made barren by your leave.
“You two were his closest companions. As for Cody, he was the son that Rodney never had. There were points during that visit where I feared a little for his constitution. I let him know he should contact me immediately if there was any assistance I could provide.”
Their encounter was soon put to an abrupt end when a shrill voice pierced the morning air. “Time to board Isabella is now! This is the last call! Isabella leaves harbor in fifteen minutes! Please line up on the boarding ramp now!”
“Guess that’s your call,” remarked Fletcher. “I won’t keep you any longer. Just remember to write me as soon as you’re settled. As you can imagine, all of us in Resting Arms want that small comfort of knowing your family has arrived safely in Hopeville.”
“That’s the first thing we will do,” replied a sincere Fortune. “Take care Fletcher. I know my family will meet you again in good time”
“I wish you, Dainty and Cody all my best. Have a safe voyage.”
With that, Fletcher turned and melded into the pier’s montage of hustling people. Fortune turned to take his wife in one hand and their spare belongings in another.
“The show has begun Dainty. Let’s not miss the first act.”
Together their pace gathered momentum and confidence as they accustomed themselves to a new reality.
Chapter Seven
IN TRANSITION AND ALL GOOD HOPE
The seeds of a better tomorrow are sewn in the chances of today
As Fortune, Dainty and Cody approached Isabella, the boarding line had already formed. There appeared about one hundred fellow travelers awaiting passage to Hopeville. Unfortunately for Fortune, seeing a large number of Colored people boarding a vessel brought back horrid recollections from the past.
Time ago, the people were gathered not of free will but were forcibly captured. What awaited them in dank recesses of ship holds could never be described with justice. The lives lost during a desperate struggle with inhumane deprivation would never be lost upon him.
So today, Fortune reasoned it was his duty to all those before him to grasp hold of this opportunity. It was a notion he held dear, despite the chancy nature of this proposition. Meanwhile, the whole boarding process occurred in an instant, carried out with routine precision by Isabella’s captain and his aides.
Initially, they were asked for their names, town of residence, and signature or mark to acknowledge this information as true. Next, their meager belongings were carried away to be stowed in cargo. Finally, they were shown to their quarters. Fortune and Dainty were pleasantly surprised their appointment was not sparse, though modestly comfortable. Fortune flashed an approving smile to Dainty, which was returned in kind.
“So far, I think we made the right decision,” he remarked. “Looks like someone put a little money into the enterprise, to be sure.”
Dainty gave the surroundings a once over with discerning eyes before responding. “Yes Fortune, the accommodations seem fine. But it sure must have been a high price for redemption that Preacher Simmons paid. Either we have an evening of the scales of justice or we’re being blinded by deception. Remember there’s still a long voyage to Hopeville before Preacher Simmons makes good.”
Fortune nodded silently at the wisdom of her words. “I can’t help myself Dainty. I’ve waited so long for a chance to give our family the lives we deserve. And now it’s so close I want to reach that final moment even sooner.”
“I understand too well Fortune. Why don’t the three of us go back on deck and see Nova Scotia one last time? Despite the hardships, we did quite well by it. And it offered Colored folk a place of shelter when there were few others around. Perhaps in time equality will follow. I daresay there may come a time we shall regret leaving the comfort of its ways.”
They proceeded to make their way above to deck. On reaching their destination, they noticed two things. One, Isabella was making her way through the harbor on her way to a gaping blue ocean beyond. Second, some of their fellow passengers had gathered in a crude circle at the center of its deck.
Coming closer, they caught the familiar figure of Preacher Simmons crowning the middle of this crowd. His large hands were clasped together in prayer as he gazed skywards in thankful appreciation. In a loud, humbled tone he began to cast mortal pleadings into breezy air above.
“I ask Dear Heavenly Father for you to bless the noble voyage of our good ship Isabella. Its sole quest is to find a place of newfound hope for all these people gathered on board. Here are brave souls that called places like Birchtown and Shelburne their humble homes for many a stark, thankless day.
“Can we Father offer safe passage to these meek people, so they can grab some sense of self-worth? In my humble clothes and pious thoughts I ask for true justice. I know that I come before you not blameless, though pleading nonetheless. I, Preacher Simmons ask these things as your servant on earth. Amen Dear Lord.
“Now I say to all you good people gathered on this great journey. Together we will achieve a reality that few of your brethren could even begin to understand! Let’s take a moment to link our hands in silent prayer for safe passage.”
All these hopeful souls engaged in a tight circle around Preacher Simmons, with heads bowed in prayerful thought. After a minute or so, he continued speaking.
“I say thank you again and Amen Dear Lord!” His enthusiasm was greeted with a harmonious Amen from everyone assembled.
“You all must be tired and hungry after your preparations for this journey. So if you look over to my left, you will notice more of what the Good Lord has provided. Take in the bounty of delicious food and fresh water on those oak tables. And since you have been shown your quarters, feel free to take leave at any time to catch up on rest. I will keep you all informed of any important events during our travels.”
Immediately, famished passengers strode towards the refreshments. After eating their fill, one by one they retired below deck. All were pleased with the hospitable beginnings to their voyage.
> Preacher Simmons also continued below deck to the captain’s quarters. “Well hello there Captain Brannigan! Everything appears to be running just fine. I’m so glad we’re in the capable hands of another fellow from our society!”
Captain Brannigan looked up from a chart he was studying. “And I am honored to have landed such a special appointment. Now that we’re in private, there’s a matter I’ve been meaning to bring up with you.”
Judging from the look on his face, Preacher Simmons had a notion as to what he would be inquiring about. “Go ahead captain. Please ask what’s on your mind.”
“It has been a while since you’ve attended a formal meeting with your brothers. And though we continue to hear of your great work throughout so many places, we are all anxious to hear one thing. Of course I am referring to the problem. Will it be fixed through all this?”
Preacher Simmons suddenly stooped his head in shame. Upon recovering, he looked into Brannigan’s searching eyes.
“I truly hope so captain. That is why this voyage is so important. We must not fail in our endeavor here. Good day captain.” The lay clergyman strode out of his quarters, leaving Captain Brannigan to ponder in silence.
Time passed in a peaceful monotony the further Isabella plied endless blue grey ocean. The weather was surprisingly pleasant as she made way towards her destination. Meanwhile, Fortune and Dainty had the pleasure of making acquaintance with fellow passengers.
It was truly fascinating to hear where and how each person came to this moment in time. Their circumstances were as varied as patches on a well-worn quilt. Though the desire was ever constant; their dreams consistent. To a one they sought the chance for equal opportunity and respect.
Fortune soon took to a routine of solitary strolls on deck when Dainty and Cody took their afternoon nap. He felt gazing at the broad expanse before him cleansed his body with purifying air. During these walks, Fortune would greet fellow passengers or crew with a gentle nod or small talk when he came upon them. And it was after two weeks of ritual strolls that he again encountered the passenger Carl.
Fortune first met Carl on the ship’s departure. He was full of excitement about their future prospects in Hopeville that day. He was a tall young man, whose persona had a radiant happiness. Yet now, Fortune sensed his world was not so bright.
“Good afternoon Carl,” offered Fortune. “How are things today?”
Carl turned to acknowledge the greeting. When he saw it was Fortune, his posture became more relaxed.
“I feel as good as can be on a fine day like this. It’s sure something to take in all the fresh breeze and big open sea. How are things for you Fortune?”
“No bother with me, though I’m as impatient as everyone else to hit land. That reminds me of a question I have for Preacher Simmons. Just where in Africa is Hopeville? It’s a big place after all.”
“Well I can help you there,” replied Carl. “I heard it is located on the west coast of Africa, so there will be no hard traveling. Heard tell the name of the place is Liberia, where there are already a number of freedmen setting up towns and such.”
Fortune was pleased to hear this new information. “How foolhardy was I not to know where I was going!” he thought to himself. Fixing upon Carl again, he noticed a slight grimace reappear on his usually pleasant face.
“Are you okay Carl? I couldn’t help but notice your expression just now.”
Carl looked away into the far reaches of lazy afternoon sky as if to search for a reply. Then he swung his head back to focus on Fortune.
“That depends on what you mean. My body has never felt better. And my mind is clearer than a church bell on Sunday morning. But there is something that has been bothering me for a few days now. And if I were to talk about it, I would need your complete silence.”
Fortune was immediately brought to attention with these words. He needed to hear more, and was clear about his fidelity in the matter.
“Of course I will keep private, so long as it does not directly affect me or my family. Dainty and I are equal partners in that regard.”
Carl drew closer to Fortune. “I respect that. But what I’m about to say may concern the lot of us, the passengers anyways. All of us with visions of Hopeville.”
“Please Carl; tell me what we’re talking about?”
“I don’t want to sound scared, but I’m finding it hard to keep quiet. I’ve watched your family since day one on this Isabella, and for some reason I feel you are a good person.
“You have no reason to believe me, but I worked on a master’s ship for ten years before escaping to Nova Scotia. And I was a damn good seaman at that!
“One thing that work gave me was a good sense for sailing…and direction. Fortune, I have no mariner’s compass to make sure. But I don’t think we’re on course towards Africa. This ship is sailing too far north for that.”
Fortune wore an incredulous look on his face. Did he hear Carl correctly? How could they not be sailing for Africa? Surely he was mistaken. And what proof did he have to make such a crude accusation? Fortune composed himself before responding.
“Well now Carl. That’s something all right! Now let’s think together about this. You don’t have a mariner’s compass. Granted you spent many a day working on a ship, but where’s your proof man? Have you plotted course since we set sail from Halifax Harbor? And how many times have you sailed out from there?”
Carl appeared humbled by this questioning. “Look Fortune, I meant no harm. So yes, I never sailed out of Halifax Harbor. This has only been on my mind lately. I guess all the excitement has probably gotten to me.”
Fortune expressed satisfaction with this response. “Consider it forgotten. I better check in with Dainty and Cody. They’re probably waiting for me. Relax Carl. Soon this voyage will be in the past.”
“Thank you Fortune. Enjoy your afternoon with the family.”
Fortune strode back towards their quarters below deck. Carl took in one last view of ocean before preparing to return below himself. As he began to walk away, he noticed a crew member on route to performing basic chores.
“Fine day today, isn’t it?” greeted Carl to the man.
“Yes it is. We’re making good time to our destination,” came back the reply.
Carl strode a few steps past the crew man before having an impulsive urge to allay his nagging thoughts. Quickly he turned around to catch the man’s attention.
“Excuse me please,” shouted Carl. The man stopped and turned. “Don’t mean to take you from your duties. I used to work on my old master’s ship some time ago. I’m a little rusty, but guess we’re going around a storm area or something.”
The crew member lost his smile while looking directly into Carl’s eyes. “Everything’s on schedule with no delays. Excuse me while I finish my work.” With that the man continued walking.
Having heard from another person his suspicions were unfounded, Carl enjoyed a pleasant nap. In balance, the promise of better temperament in weather and livelihood seemed more than worth this chance. After working for most of his life from dawn to dusk, he fancied the promise of a more rewarding future.
Two weeks later, morning shot out with brilliant vigor, launched from nature’s cannon of daybreak. By now all the passengers had become accustomed to a healthy compliment of meals. The variety of foodstuffs served were similar to that provided for Isabella’s crew. Preacher Simmons often mentioned the society knew no bounds in providing for his mission.
Afternoon too unfolded as any other during the past couple of weeks. But one could sense a slight impatience among these passengers. Although nothing was mentioned, the eager ambition present at the start of this journey was slowly beginning to change.
As the sheen of brilliant oratory waned, subtle realities began to encroach upon the dream. While the promise of a fresh beginning was still a possibility, true matters of
practicality had yet to be broached. And the conclusion of their voyage, like a desert’s shifting sands, was happening too slowly for many.
Though here, cresting rolling waves of Atlantic deep, Isabella sang a gentle song of salvation to lull its enraptured passengers’ discontent. This rhythm of soft swells played a seductive tune of salvation for a new land of bounty. And so, despite impatient stirrings, that bond of trust vested with Preacher Simmons held sway for most.
Just as the sun’s warming rays were beginning to withdraw behind the horizon, dinner was set out. Similar to all meals, it was served buffet style on large oak tables with wooden bowls, plates and utensils. On occasion, Preacher Simmons came from his quarters to share a meal. This evening was one of those times.
Preacher Simmons provided a blessing for the meal before everyone began to mill around. Soon most conversation ceased, as the hungry ate up generous helpings of hot food. Fortune, Dainty and Cody found a place far enough removed to enjoy their dinner in relative calm.
Having satisfied their appetites, Fortune gathered all their utensils while Dainty brought Cody below deck. Upon reaching the table to place their utensils, Fortune felt a quick tap on his right shoulder. He immediately wheeled about to face Carl.
“Hope you and the family had a good meal Fortune,” he began. “I was hoping to grab your ear about something else. You’re such a good listener.”
Fortune was not looking forward to another of Carl’s conspiratorial comments. It seemed he would never be content with leaving well enough alone. Nevertheless, Fortune responded in an evenhanded manner.
“Yes, we are all well fed after that large meal. So what’s your concern Carl?”
Carl glanced quickly around the immediate vicinity before siding up beside Fortune.
“Fortune,” he began in a hushed tone. “Do you ever wonder why none of us are allowed below the first level of this ship? I know they said some nonsense about it being one of their rules for passenger safety, but I tried a couple of weeks ago anyways. Just as I was about to do it, a crew member came up and grabbed my arm.”
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