Voyage Home

Callum threw open the door of the tavern, walking out, going to his left out of the door, Dustin was right behind him. All of the patrons, the sailors, were left standing there in silence after Callum had walked through them, but now they turned as one and looked to the shrunken man with one eye that was on the floor against the far wall. Ebrow, as he was called, raised one arm to cover his face as all of those sailors advanced toward him now.

Callum rounded the corner of the tavern with his brisk pace, Dustin struggling to keep up, double stepping to try and catch up. Callum went by a window that was closed but heard the scream, a scream of agony, coming from inside of the tavern. Dustin paused at that same window, as he too heard the scream and was horrified by it but Callum kept walking.

“Should we,…?” Dustin started to ask. Callum stopped and slightly turned his head.

“He gets what he deserves.” Callum said coldly, “I hope they take his other eye, if not his life.” Callum continued walking, reaching his horse, pulling the reins from the knot in them.

“Quintan,…” Dustin said as he started to move, coming closer to Callum and his own horse, “no one deserves that.” Dustin said as he took his own reins, untying them. He looked up at Callum, still horrified as Callum sat fully on his saddle, reins in hand.

“Say that again when you’re standing over Henry’s lifeless body.” Callum growled, his eyes cold and seemed almost menacing to Dustin, a look Dustin had seen before and it chilled him to his very core. Callum reined his horse, making the horse back up a few steps, then wheeled him and kicked him in the sides. The horse bolted, responding to the kick and Callum galloped off, going around the tavern and out of sight onto the King’s Road. Dustin shook his head a bit, then mounted. He whirled his own horse and set off after Callum.

The ride north became like a race between them. The horses even knew it and were responding as best as they could, but they were growing weary and began to lather and snort heavily from their full gallop. Dustin could see it as well as feel it and would look over at Callum as he pushed his horse on and on. Dustin knew that they were near their end.

“Quintan!” Dustin called out, “We must rest them for a bit, they’re exhausted!”

“There is no time!” Callum said without looking at Dustin.

“If you don’t stop, they’ll drop over dead!” Dustin yelled. Callum shook his head a bit.

“The river is just up ahead! We will stop there for a bit!” Callum said loudly. They rode hard until they reached the river. Callum slowed his mount as did Dustin and they came off the road onto the grassy area.

“This is where the Guardsmen were hiding that attacked us, wasn’t it?” Dustin asked as he swung out of the saddle and stepped down.

“Yes.” Callum said as he looked around as if looking for those Guardsmen. He climbed down off his mount. Dustin led his horse over to Callum and took Callum’s reins from him.

“Let me walk them a bit to cool them off.” Dustin said.

“We should water them and be on our way.” Callum said.

“If we were to do that, they would founder, and then we would be walking for certain.” Dustin said flatly with a tone and led the horses away. Callum raised an eyebrow.

“You have obviously learned about horses.” Callum said.

“Owen and Christian are both good teachers.” Dustin said over his shoulder. Callum watched as Dustin walked the horses about in a large circle for a bit and then let them stop and rest. Dustin undid the saddles of each and set them on the ground. He looked the horses over carefully seeing if the cinches were binding into their coats and skin, but they had not. Callum came over to Dustin and put a hand gently on his shoulder. Dustin straightened and looked at him.

“I am sorry I was short with you at the tavern.” Callum said.

“I understand why, Quintan. I am fearful myself, but Henry is in good hands, you know that. Darin and Owen are both very capable.” Dustin said.

“Unless they are outnumbered, which is my greatest fear.” Callum said. He stared into Dustin’s soft brown eyes and then looked up the road, “We have to get there and soon.”

“It will be dark by the time we reach the Cross.” Dustin said.

“And they will have the cover of that darkness in which to act.” Callum said as he still looked up the road toward the north.

“I know, but it can’t be helped.” Dustin said.

“Cowards, the lot of them.” Callum whispered.

“That may be, Quintan, but trust in Darin and Owen, at least for the moment.” Dustin said and Callum looked at him. He gave Dustin a half smile.

“You always think the best and try to comfort me.” Callum said. Dustin smiled warmly at his love standing before him.

“I do that because I love you.” Dustin said above a whisper.

“Water the horses so we can continue on.” Callum said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Dustin said turning his smile to a smirk. Callum shook his head. Dustin led the horses over to the bank of the river. The horses slowly stepped forward into the water and lowered their heads, Dustin standing between them, holding their reins. Callum watched the love of his life with those beasts that Dustin cared for so much and it warmed Callum’s heart to see him with them this way.

Callum stepped up in the stirrup, swinging himself over and settled upon the saddle once again. He looked over and watched Dustin do the same. Callum reined his horse, turning him and stepped forward to come close to Dustin and his mount.

“Are you ready?” Callum asked.

“I am.” Dustin said, “But, we should be easy with them for now, Quintan. Remember, they are not like Dover that can be driven in a hard wind or a heavy gale.”

“I know.” Callum said, and sighed a bit, “You’re right. They are sweet beasts that deserve our respect.” Callum reached out and pat the neck of his mount, looking down at the back of his horse’s head, “I shall try to remember that they are not wood and canvas, but flesh and blood.” Callum said and lifted his eyes toward Dustin. The smile on Dustin’s face showed love, not only toward Callum but toward the horses that they were mounted upon. Callum half smiled in return.

“I have no doubt that they understand the urgency that you feel, Quintan.” Dustin said.

“No doubt.” Callum said. He gently kicked his horse and the gelding responded to it, stepping out high and strong, wanting to go. Dustin wheeled his own gelding, a Sorrel, stepping out onto the road, pointing toward the north.

The pace was set by Dustin and his mount, a light gait and they all fell into it. Callum wanted his mount to run, to run his heart out but also knew it was wrong, completely wrong. He had remembered what Dustin had said and his words about the horses. It seemed like hours of riding since the river, but it had not been in reality. Callum kept looking toward the setting sun. He knew there was about three hours or so more of daylight left to them and another five hours of riding to reach the Cross itself. Callum was beginning to fear the worst once again. His chest was tightening and his palms were sweating as he held the reins. The feeling of helplessness was taking him and he was doing his best to try and fight it.

Finally, Callum could see the small village of Worcester ahead in the distance, and now knew they were close, Birmingham, their home, was just beyond. The sun had set at the horizon, the sky was changing, going to a scarlet as clouds began to form and the wind picked up slightly.

“We may be in for some rain, I think!” Dustin said loudly. Callum sniffed the air a few times and looked over at Dustin, giving him a nod.

“Worcester just ahead.” Callum said and pointed.

“We should rest them again at the brook.” Dustin said. Callum looked at him with a bit of anger in his eyes.

“We have no time for that.” Callum said and almost spit it.

“There is the final push to it, Quintan.” Dustin said with a bit of anger in his voice, “Trust in what I say.” The tone was flat and took Callum by surprise, his expression showed it, “Have you learned nothing?” Dustin asked and was firm in his tone. Callum eased a bit with it.

“Alright, I will bow to your judgement on the matter.” Callum said and eased in the saddle a bit.

The brook that gave Worcester their water was coming into view. The brush was a bit dense at its banks but there was a small clearing in one part. Dustin eased his mount toward the left of the road, Callum followed with his into the clearing. They slowed their light cantor and they both swung off their saddles and eased to the edge of the water. The horses snorted and rubbed themselves against Dustin with their noses as he took both sets of reins in his hands. The understanding between man and beast was clear now to Callum and in that clarity to Callum came the understanding that they fully respected Dustin, as their master and caretaker. The love and respect were given back to each of the geldings as Dustin paid attention to each of them, speaking to them softly, touching them in gentle ways that Callum did not fully understand. It was almost mesmerizing to Callum to watch what was happening as the darkness approached. The horses eased slowly to the brook with Dustin, stepping into the cool water, dipping their heads. Dustin held them by the reins, giving them room with slack in the reins so they could drink freely.

A few more minutes and the horses were ready, eyes wide as the darkness enveloped them all. Callum could almost see a change in the beasts and wondered to himself if Dustin was somehow able to communicate to them the urgency to press onward. He was handed his set of reins of his mount. Callum took them from Dustin’s gentle hand, fingers lingering for just a long moment, touching those that were so giving to Callum.

“Shall we go?” Dustin asked softly.

“Yes.” Callum said, thinking to himself that he now had a deeper understanding of the love of his life, “But only if they are ready.”

“I believe they are.” Dustin said softly. The nose of his mount was on his shoulder. Dustin reached up a hand and rubbed it with a tender touch as he stared at Callum in the deepening darkness.

“You truly are a wonder to me, my love.” Callum said and smiled.

“I understand them, and they me.” Dustin said.

“Clearly.” Callum said. They smiled at one another. Callum went to turn to mount but Dustin touched him on the shoulder, making him pause, “What?” Callum asked.

“They will do the best they can to get us there.” Dustin said.

“I know.” Callum said softly then smiled briefly. He mounted his gelding and sat as Dustin did the same. Callum watched Dustin for a moment and Dustin gave him a nod. They set out on the road. The pace was a light cantor yet once again.

Owen looked over at Henry as he was still working very hard with the straw in the newly completed barn. Owen smiled a bit at the small boy, his thoughts filling his mind. Owen had come to appreciate Henry, to love him as he might a nephew or even a son of his own. This boy worked very hard every day, doing what was asked of him, what was expected of him, and never raised complaint or strayed from those tasks. It gave a sense of pride to Owen, but also for his friend, Quintan, this small boy’s father.

“I think we’re about done for the night.” Owen said as he leaned his wooden pitchfork against a stall wall. Henry stopped with his own and looked up. Owen smiled as the pitchfork Henry held was much longer as he was tall. Owen stepped close to Henry and gently took the pitchfork from the small hands, turning and placing it next to his own, “You worked very hard today, Henry.” Owen said and looked over at the boy.

“I am kind of tired.” Henry said softly, making Owen smile even wider.

“I don’t doubt it.” Owen said and went over to the lamp that lit the area. The horses were in their stalls and made their sounds of soft snorts and chortles. Some of them moved and their hooves knocked into the wood of those stalls as the horses searched for grain that might be left over in the feeders.

Owen turned the lamp down and then lifted the glass, blowing out the low flame. He lowered the glass and went toward the large doors of the barn at the middle of the structures length, putting a hand on Henry’s shoulder, guiding him out gently. They walked out of the barn together, Owen closing the half doors behind him. Henry waited for Owen but was looking skyward. Owen turned and looked up for himself.

“Clouds are moving in. I think we might have rain.” Owen said softly.

“There is no moon.” Henry said. There were some stars that could be seen in the sky, but not many through the clouds as they began to thicken.

“It is there, but only covered with the clouds.” Owen said, putting a hand on Henry’s shoulder, guiding him as they walked through the tall grass, “Let us go up to the house to wash and then I will walk you over to the Cross.”

“I can go by myself.” Henry said as he stepped along with Owen.

“I know you can, my lad, but if you go into your house smelling like horse, I will never hear the end of it from Martha, and you know that.” Owen said and pat Henry’s shoulder with only his fingers.

“Yeah.” Henry said but his voice sounded very tired.

“You work as hard as any man I know, Henry, for one being so young.” Owen said and Henry smiled hearing him but was watching where he was walking. Owen turned as he walked and picked up the young one, putting him up on his hip. Henry did not resist but settled against Owen’s muscled shoulder with his head, draping a tired little arm around it, “You will sleep good tonight, little man.” Owen said patting Henry’s back gently as he walked through the tall grass of the pasture.

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“Not far now!” Callum said loudly.

“They can give us the last push, Quintan.” Dustin said as he looked further up the road.

“Very well then.” Callum said and snapped his reins. The gelding knew and lowered his head a bit, ears going back and he responded by bolting forward, Callum leaning forward a bit in the saddle. Dustin and his Sorrel following suit.

Owen carried Henry through the man gate of the fence at Harbroughs on the Road, as the property was known. Owen closed the small gate and turned. He carried the tired little one onto the gravel that surrounded the house that made up the drive, heading toward the rear of the house but stopped for a moment as he noticed something. There was soft light glowing out the rear kitchen window bathing the gravel beyond in a warm light at the rear of the house.

“Did we leave a lamp burning this morning, Henry?” Owen asked, “I don’t recall.”

“I don’t think so.” Henry said softly, lifting his little head from the muscled shoulder and looking in that same direction as Owen.

“Well, we must have.” Owen said as he continued his walk. Henry lay his head back against Owen, closing his eyes a moment, “I will more than likely have to refill it with oil if it has been burning all day.”

They reached the corner of the house, going around it. The soft glow of the lamp coming through the window making the area glow in a soft yellow. Owen looked in as he walked by the window but did not see anything. He thought it odd as the lamp usually sat on the large window sill that was above the sink but it was not there and he did not remember moving it. He set Henry down on the gravel at the back door and put a hand on the boy’s head, giving him a smile.

“Ready to wash up and then have your supper?” Owen asked.

“I am hungry.” Henry said with a nod as he looked up at Owen with tired eyes.

“I am too.” Owen said as they went toward the back door, “I wonder what Martha has made for supper for us.” Owen said as he put his hand on the knob and opened it. He guided Henry along, letting him go in first, “I’ll pump some water in the sink and we can wash.” Owen said as he stepped in, starting to close the door behind him. Henry just stood there, his back to Owen, “What is it?”

“What is that smell? I know that smell.” Henry asked. Owen sniffed the air and then saw them coming out of the shadows of the kitchen and hall. Owen went wide eyed. The first three leered as they slowly drew heavy cutlasses from their broad belts.

“What do you want?” Owen asked the men as he pulled Henry back to him, making him go behind him.

“Kill the boy.” A voice said that was icy in its tone. Owen flashed his eyes in the direction of it. He saw a tall man, shabbily dressed, coming into the kitchen from the hall. His beard had several braids in it and as the upper lip curled, Owen could see in the low light, teeth that were gnarled, some missing.

The first three moved, coming around the large island and cooking spit in the center of the kitchen. Owen balled up his fists and raised them. The heavy cutlasses were lifted as they surged forward toward him.

Callum looked ahead knowing exactly where they were, even in the darkness that was upon them now, the fences that surrounded his property, Harbroughs on the Road, the lead edge from the south of that property could be seen. He looked ahead and could see that the house was dark, and looked beyond it as well toward the Cross, his home. He could see the light coming from the windows of his home up on the knoll.

“I can see it!” Dustin called out.

“I can as well!” Callum said loudly as they continued to gallop. It was as if the horses had a second wind now, as they knew that they were home. They reached the gates to the drive of Harbroughs, the right gate of the drive was open a bit and not latched. Callum reined his horse back as did Dustin, Callum’s horse spinning and then rearing up, Callum hanging onto his reins, “Continue on to the Cross, I will check here first. If there is nothing, I will join you.” Callum said as the horse came down on all hooves. Dustin nodded and then snapped his reins, his Sorrel continuing on up the road. Callum wheeled his mount and came through the gate, galloping up the graveled drive to the front of the house. He reined his mount to a halt and swung off the saddle, the horse stepping away from him as Callum went to the front door. He opened it and then heard the crash of pots and pans and a few grunts. He drew his pistol from his belt with his left hand and then his sword with his right.

“Henry, run.” The strained voice said as there was another crash that Callum could hear. He charged forward through the house. He heard a scream, a little scream and knew it was Henry making it. Callum became enraged.

“Kill him you dogs!” Another voice yelled and then grunted as Callum hit him across the back of his head with the pistol barrel, making the man drop to the floor. Callum saw the may-lay before him in the kitchen, the struggle of all that were involved. Owen was doing his best to block the open back door of the house as there were five on him, all gripping him and trying to swing their heavy cutlasses to stop Owen in his struggle against them. Callum leaped forward, stabbing one in the back that was closest to him, making the man scream, throwing his head back with that scream. Callum pulled his sword out of him and began knocking the others about using his pistol and belled sword pommel. Owen continued with his struggle but saw Callum as well in the lamplight.

One of the attackers turned and swung at Callum with a heavy cutlass, Callum ducked forward. He threw his body into the attacker knocking him back. Another that had been knocked to the floor grabbed Callum around the leg and held on, clawing and trying to get a better grip on Callum’s waist. Callum smashed his left elbow into the face below him once, but the attacker kept his grip. The first attacker raised his cutlass, Callum saw it, raising his own sword in time and the clang of steel sounded throughout the large kitchen. There was a crash and grunts behind Callum now.

Owen had gripped his one attacker now by the wrists and had pushed into him, knocking him into the island. The pots and pans that hung above on the rack from the ceiling had been hit by the raised cutlass, the attacker grunting as he hit the solid island. Owen let him go and pounded the dirty face over and over with his fists, making the man slump a bit. Owen followed him down as the cutlass dropped with a clang to the wooden floor, still pounding the face over and over. The man was done. Owen spun on another that was stunned but trying to get up, leaping on him, pounding him over and over with fists, taking the attacker fully to the floor.

The struggle with the two others continued with Callum in the middle of them, being held by the one still. Callum bent his left arm and thumped the face of the man below with the pistol barrel and the grip eased on Callum. He used the belled pommel of his sword and drove it upward into the chin of the attacker before him, knocking him back further toward the far wall, Callum stayed with him as best he could but was still being held and was dragging the dead weight of the man below along. Callum thumped him in the face once more and he was let go finally. The first before him raised the cutlass again, but Callum had room and was faster, plunging his sword deep into the belly of the man. The look of surprise was all over the attacker’s face and the mouth dropped open. Callum growled and pushed his blade in even further. The attacker exhaled several short times and dropped his blade to the floor. Callum pulled his sword from him, looking him in the eye, watching them glaze over and the life in them slipped away, the attacker collapsed in a heap at Callum’s feet. Callum spun, kicking the man that had held him once and then looked at his friend, Owen.

“You alright?” Callum asked and Owen nodded a few times. He was bloodied, his lower lip was split wide open and his left eye was swelling shut quickly.

“Thank God you came when you did.” Owen said. He was more than slightly out of breath. He put his hands on the island top and leaned forward a bit to steady himself. Callum looked about quickly.

“Where is Henry?” Callum asked.

“He ran out the back door.” Owen said, getting his breath back now nodding in that direction. Callum kept looking about and realized quickly that the first attacker he had hit coming into the kitchen was now also gone. Callum’s chest tightened and he bolted for the door, leaving Owen.

The rain had now come and was falling hard. Callum stood out on the gravel looking about in the darkness. He was beginning to get soaked from the heavy rain and lowered his pistol to try and keep the powder dry. His sword was up and he moved toward the corner of the house.

“Henry!” Callum screamed, his throat was getting tight as fear was taking him, fear of the worst.

“Papa!” The little voice called back but sounded far away. Callum charged around the corner of the house and headed toward the half open man gate to the pasture. He ran as fast as he could and reached it, going through, but bumped into it, making him stagger and lose his balance. He righted himself in the tall wet grass and kept running.

“Stop yer runnin’ boy!” The voice said in the darkness ahead. Callum heard it and ran faster toward it.

“Henry!” Callum yelled as he ran.

“Papa!” Henry called back.

“Gotcha.” The voice said and Callum saw the outlines in the dark as he ran up. The man spun and Callum slid to a stop in the tall grass, “Stop where ye are.” The man said and Callum raised his sword up.

“Let him go, now.” Callum said, his voice of full authority, his chest heaving.

“Papa.” Henry said as the man held him around his middle up to him with one arm, the other holding a cutlass that was raised. The rain was falling heavy and Callum stepped forward one step.

“Stop where ye are I say.” The man said, pulling Henry to him tighter, making Henry grunt. Callum could see that Henry was struggling against him.

“Put him down.” Callum said, sword rolling and pointing out toward the man’s bearded face.

“I’ll kill ‘em.” The man growled.

“Isn’t that what you were going to do anyway?” Callum asked, taking another step forward.

“I’ll cleave his skull if’n ye come closer.” The man said raising his cutlass a bit more.

“Put him down and we can settle this like men.” Callum said, his arm firming even more.

“Ye be Callum.” The man said.

“I am.”

“Ye are supposed to be in London.” The man said.

“Things change.” Callum said with a growl, “Put my son down and you may live to walk away.”

“I be dead either way. If’n I don’t kill this boy, he be killin’ me.” The man said and Callum narrowed his eyes as the rain ran over his face.

“If you are speaking of Upton, he cannot hurt you any longer.” Callum said, his voice firm. The man shook his head.

“It not be Upton doin’ the killin’.” The man said and Callum cocked his head slightly, “It be Ramirez.”

“Ramirez?” Callum asked under his breath, “Put him down and we will talk.”

“Quintan?!” Dustin called out from the darkness. The man tensed further with Henry.

“Stand fast!” Callum called back. The man moved as he held Henry tighter to him, Callum stayed with him, taking a few steps to his right. The man stopped, “You have nowhere to go. As you can hear, I have others with me and you are now alone in this. Put my son down and we will talk.”

“Yer word as a gentleman?” The man asked. Callum just glared at his outline in the dark.

“I am no gentleman.” Callum said flatly. Callum could hear footsteps coming quickly in the dark through the tall grass, “Stand fast, Dustin.” Callum said.

“Quintan,…” Dustin said in the darkness and Callum saw the man’s head turn slightly toward Dustin’s direction. Callum had to end this here and now. Callum bolted forward, swinging his sword to his left, clanging against the heavy blade of the cutlass, knocking it back as Callum threw himself against Henry and the man that held him. A deep grunt came as they crashed together, the man knocked off balance and fell backward into the tall grass. Callum dropped his pistol and sword, struggling to get a grip on Henry as they fell together in a heap. The man bent his arm and the cutlass grip hit Callum in the side of his head hard. He was stunned only a moment and spread out his body over the two under him. He grabbed the wrist that held the cutlass and Callum rolled with it, twisting it with such force that the man cried out. Henry was able to slip out from between the two men but slipped in the wet grass. He went to get away but was grabbed from behind and pulled up.

“It’s alright, I’ve got you.” Dustin said in Henry’s ear as he pulled him to him. Dustin swung away with Henry as Callum was struggling with the man in the wet grass.

“Don’t move a muscle.” Another voice in the dark said clearly and Callum looked up as the pistol was cocked. Darin Talon was knelt on one knee in the grass next to the head of the man, the pistol barrel pointed against the dirty forehead, “If he doesn’t kill you, I surely will.” Darin said and was firm in his voice. Callum got to his feet, picking up his own pistol.

“Timing is everything they say.” Callum said as he looked at his young officer and friend. He looked back down at the man in the grass, reaching down a hand, grabbing up the shirt, pulling him up, “On your feet you son-of-a-bitch.” Callum growled. The man was pulled up and Callum let him go, staying right in front of him, “You said Ramirez sent you, why?” Callum asked, the man said nothing, Callum leaned back a bit and swung his left hand up, backhanding the man, “Answer me.” The head of the man had been turned from the blow but came back to glare at Callum as they went eye to eye, the man’s braided beard was dripping from the rain, “Who are you?” Callum asked.

“Me name not be important.” The man said.

“What does Ramirez want with my son?” Callum asked.

“It not be the boy he really wants.” The man said, the voice graveled a bit. Callum narrowed his eyes.

“Me? He wants me then. Why?” Callum asked, “I have never laid eyes on him. What does he want with me?” Callum asked with a growl in his throat. The man just glared back. Callum cocked his pistol and shoved it up under the wet chin of the man, “Answer me or so help me God, I’ll blow your head off.”

“I would listen to him if I were you.” Darin Talon said, stepping closer to the man.

“Ye won’t do it.” The man said.

“I will count to three.” Callum said, still growling. His eyes never flinched as he stared at the scruffy man.

“You had better tell him what he wants to know.” Talon said.

“One.” Callum said, he paused a moment, “Two.”

“Your last chance.” Talon said quickly, thinking to himself that Callum was only bluffing.

“Three.” Callum said in a cold tone.

“Quintan!” Dustin said loudly as Callum pulled the trigger. The hammer fell and only clicked. Dustin gasped and then eased a bit, still holding Henry.

“Yer powder be wet.” The man said almost with a smirk.

“I think your right.” Callum said with a raised brow. He lowered the pistol from the wet chin, looking at it once then tucked it into his belt. He bent low and picked up his sword from the tall grass, rising to face the man again, raising his sword. Eyes shifted from the man seeing the three-sided blade near his face, “However, my sword is still very sharp.” Callum said and the eyes shifted back to stare at Callum’s wet face. The man swallowed hard.

“He be wantin ye to come.” The man said.

“Again, why?” Callum asked.

“It be said that ye are dangerous to what Ramirez be doin.”

“Besides pirating, what else is he doing?” Callum asked.

“Ye will find out when ye go after ‘im.” The man said. Callum cocked his head slightly.

“What makes him think I’m going after him?” Callum asked.

“If’n ye don’t, ‘e’ll keep sending others for the boy til ye do.” The man said and those words cut through Callum like a knife. He was becoming more than angry.

“You didn’t answer my question.” Callum growled, “Why does he think I’m going after him?”

“Because ye will.” The man said and leered, “They be orders.” Again, the words cut into Callum and realization set into him, realization that everything was and had been done up to this point for a reason. Callum was now enraged, enraged over the fact that he had been led about like some kind of dog by all about him, those of power and authority. Upton had been right all along and Callum now knew it. He backed up a step from the man. The rain was easing up and was becoming more of a sprinkling. Callum growled in his throat. Dustin knew what it meant and became wide-eyed.

“If Ramirez sent you and others will be coming, you have a ship. Where is it? Portsmouth? Bristol?” Callum asked and raised his sword, lifting and turning his arm, the tip point at the base of the man’s throat, “Tell me or I will gut you right here.”

“I be dead either way.” The man said firmly. Callum growled and shoved the blade in as hard as he could. The man’s eyes went wide and the gurgle was stopped by the blade blocking air. Callum pushed and the man fell backward like a tree to the tall grass, Callum following the fall with his arm and the blade stepping over the body once.

“I thought you might say that.” Callum said a growl and pulled his blade out of the throat.

“Quintan.” Dustin said above a whisper. He had not been fast enough to turn away with Henry, to spare Henry from seeing this act of murder. Callum looked over as the clouds began to part and the sky brightened from the few stars that now illuminated the area. Callum looked over and saw the look not only on Dustin’s face, but on Henry’s. The look of shock and horror at what had just happened.

“Sir.” Darin Talon said softly as he stepped close to his Captain. Callum turned his head slightly, diverting his gaze of Dustin and Henry.

“Darin, go into the village, summon the Magistrate, bring him here.” Callum said and turned away from them all. He started walking back toward Harbroughs.

“Where are you going?” Dustin asked. Callum looked over his shoulder slightly as he kept walking.

“To help Owen. There are others alive left under his watch.” Callum said, “Take Henry home.” Dustin looked at Darin as he stepped closer to he and Henry.

“May God have mercy on them for he won’t.” Darin said softly as he went by Dustin heading toward the Cross. Dustin turned Henry around in his arms and pulled him closer to him, hugging him tight.

Callum walked in the back door of the house known as Harbroughs on the Road. He saw Owen standing there, holding a cutlass in one hand, the body of the dead man that Callum had stabbed in the back was on the floor near the island. Callum stepped over him, Owen catching his eye for only a moment. Callum saw the three survivors sitting on the floor, against the far wall, next to the body of the man Callum had run through in the belly.

“Is Henry alright?” Owen asked, not lowering the cutlass he held. Callum did not answer him as he came closer, sword in hand, fingers flexing on the pommel. Owen looked at Callum directly now seeing the look on his face and thought the worst, “Oh my God, not Henry. Quintan, I am…” Owen said but his voice dropped off. He watched as Callum came before the three scruffy men.

“I am only going to ask this once. If you do not answer me, you will share the same fate as your dead friends here.” Callum said, his eyes burning as he raised his sword tip, “You have a ship somewhere, where is it anchored?” The men were all silent as Callum moved his sword tip back and forth slowly in front of their faces, “I’m waiting.” Callum said coldly. He watched the eyes of each of the men, and there was one, one that showed fear that sat to Callum’s far left, “Very well.” Callum said. He stabbed one of the men deeply in the chest, twisting the blade once. The man screamed and started to slump, Callum pulled his blade, “Who’s next?” Callum asked with a deep growl. The other two looked at him with terror in their eyes. Callum pulled his arm back, ready to strike.

“He’ll kill us.” The one man cried out.

“You don’t seem to understand, I’m going to kill you right now and save him the trouble.” Callum growled. He could hear the heavy breathing from them both, the breathing from fear. Owen was horrified by what he had seen his friend just do but understood it fully. Callum went to thrust into the one man.

“Bristol.” The one man that Callum had noticed first with fearful eyes to his left said.

“Say nothing else.” The other man said. Callum stabbed that man in the upper arm making him cry out. He fell back against the wall.

“I will hack you both into pieces if you don’t tell me.” Callum said, his voice of full authority.

“I’ll tell you.” The one man said. The other gripped his wounded arm, putting a hand over the hole in it, blood leaking through his fingers.

“Say nothing, you dog.” The man groaned with the pain. The other looked over at him and then back up at Callum.

“If’n I tell you everything, will you let me go?” The man asked.

“I might think about it.” Callum said, his arm going back once again. The fear was there in the man’s eyes, “Start talking.”

“I’ll kill you myself if you…” The man said but was stopped as Callum plunged his sword into him. The eyes closed and the last breath could be heard as he slid sideways to the wooden floor. Callum pulled his sword out of the body and glared at the last man.

“You were saying?” Callum asked with a raised brow.

Callum walked in the back door of his home, Callum’s Cross, closing it behind him as he now stood in the kitchen. He saw his aunt, Martha Bonnington, lifting a corner of her apron to cover her mouth, her eyes wet and red from crying. Callum looked at the small table before him. Dustin sat there on the small bench. Dustin slowly rose from the bench as Martha came toward Callum, reaching out a hand. Callum came to her, wrapping his arms about her shoulders. He hugged her to him.

“Quintan.” She sobbed into his chest as he pat her back gently with one hand.

“It’s alright, my dear. The worst is over for now.” Callum said and then kissed the top of her head. He looked at Dustin as Dustin stepped around the table. Callum could see there was something that Dustin wanted to say, but he didn’t want to hear it, not right now. The feelings that were going through Callum at this moment were bittersweet, this homecoming of sorts, “Where is Henry?” Callum asked.

“In the parlor.” Dustin said, “I have him lying down. He is terrified, Quintan.”

“As am I.” Callum said, letting Martha go. She looked up at Callum.

“You said the worst was over.” She said, daubing her eyes with her apron. Callum looked down at her.

“I said for now. There will be more of them coming, that much is certain.” Callum said. His voice had a chilling tone to it.

“Why? What do they want?” Martha asked, “He’s only a boy.”

“Yes, he is, but he is also a means to an end.” Callum said.

“And you are that end, aren’t you?” Dustin asked, knowing full well what it all meant. Callum looked at him, “What are you going to do?”

“I will take the morning coach back to London. I will go to the Admiralty and meet with Lord Hood, then I will take Dover and sail to Bristol and blow those bastards out of the water.” Callum said, Dustin narrowed his eyes.

“What will that solve?” Dustin asked, “They are not the one that needs to be stopped.”

“You’re saying that I should go after Ramirez instead?” Callum asked, “There is an entire ships company that will be coming to finish what was started here tonight. Those men are the immediate threat, not Ramirez. He is half a world away.”

“He is the one behind all of this and you know that.” Dustin said.

“It will take a minimum three weeks sailing to reach the Caribbean, longer to even find Ramirez. I will not take that chance with Henry’s life.” Callum said.

“Send him away then, to keep him safe, as you did with Hans with Carson.” Dustin said. Callum shook his head, stepping away from Martha, stopping in front of Dustin.

“This is his home, our home. I will not give into living in fear, looking over my shoulder, and neither should he.” Callum said and crossed his arms over his chest, “I will go to Bristol and remove the immediate threat before anything else can happen.”

“Don’t you see, they have you chasing your tail.” Dustin said.

“I will not go after Ramirez without removing the threat here first.” Callum said, his tone was firm. Dustin knew Callum’s mind was made up and there was no changing it or further pressing the argument with him. Callum could see the look on Dustin’s face, one of frustration, “You think me wrong, don’t you? I know these men, what they are planning.”

“How could you know that?” Dustin asked.

“Because I forced it out of them.” Callum said flatly. Dustin went a bit wide eyed.

“You murdered another?” Dustin asked with a raised brow.

“The only way to make them talk and now I know.” Callum said. Martha had gasped from behind him. Callum turned and looked at her, “I’m sorry, my dear.”

“I do not agree with what you have done, Quintan, was it necessary?” She asked as the back door closed softly. Callum shifted his eyes and saw his friend, Owen, standing there.

“I would say it was.” Owen said. Martha turned and looked at the battered handsome face, her jaw went slack as she looked at him.

“Dear lord, what happened?” She asked.

“They did that to him.” Callum said, “Are you alright?” Callum asked and Owen nodded.

“Sit down. Let me get some water to clean those cuts.” She said. She went to the dry sink, pouring some water into a bowl and took a cloth. Owen sat at the table as Martha came back across the kitchen to the table edge, setting the bowl down, dipping the cloth in the water.

“Good to see you at home, Dustin.” Owen said and gave a brief smile, making his lip start to bleed again. His left eye was swollen almost completely shut.

“You did quite well over there, my friend, for being so outnumbered.” Callum said.

“How is Henry?” Owen asked.

“He is sleeping.” Dustin said, looking into the parlor over his shoulder and then back at Owen, “How many were there?”

“Six in all.” Owen said as Martha started to gently wipe the blood from his face. She stopped and looked at Callum for a moment and then back at Owen. She put a hand on Owen’s muscled shoulder and looked back at Callum.

“And you say that there will be more of them coming?” She asked. Callum nodded.

“A great many more of them.” Callum said. She started cleaning Owen’s battered face again.

“We are simple folk here, Quintan, you know that, not soldiers.” She said and stopped her cleaning. She turned her head and looked squarely at him, “You must stop this from going any further, stop it right now.”

“That is what I intend to do, my dear.” Callum said. She looked back at Owen and shook her head a few times.

“What were you thinking, Owen Muir, you could have gotten yourself killed.” She said going after the split lip again. Owen winced once.

“The Magistrate was at Harbroughs, Quintan, as I was coming here.” Owen said.

“Hold still. This will require knitting you know.” Martha said.

“Did you speak with him?” Callum asked. Owen shook his head as Martha wiped his lips.

“I’m sure he will come here though.” Owen said.

“Be still. I will fetch my sewing basket.” Martha said. She set the cloth down and walked out of the kitchen with a huff.

“I will go and talk with him.” Callum said and started to move.

“I will go with you.” Dustin said. Callum looked at him.

“Stay here. Arm yourself and keep watch over them, just in case.” Callum said. Dustin stopped and saw Callum was raising an eyebrow. Dustin knew the look, had seen it too many times in the recent past. He eased himself and nodded, “Henry will need you if he wakes.”

“He will need his father more than me.” Dustin said and gave Callum a glare.

“That may be, but you are far more comforting to him, at least right now.” Callum said. He turned and went to the back door, putting a hand on the knob. He stopped and put the other hand on Owen’s muscled shoulder from behind, “I cannot thank you enough, my friend, you saved Henry’s life.”

“He’s worth it, Quintan.” Owen said with a slight turn of his head.

“Yes, he is.” Callum said and went out the door, leaving Owen and Dustin as they stared at one another.

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Callum walked in the back door of the house known as Harbroughs. He saw the older man, the Magistrate, standing over one of the bodies on the floor. Darin Talon saw his Captain and moved to him, standing beside him as the Magistrate turned his attention toward Callum, shaking his head.

“It seems that every time I am summoned to one of your properties, it is a result of your handiwork, Captain.”

“Admiral, actually, Your Honor.” Talon said raising a finger. Callum looked at his young officer with a side glance, “Dustin told me, sir. Congratulations by the way.” Talon said and Callum feigned a brief smile. He turned his attention back toward the older man.

“Is His Majesty’s Navy giving out promotions for the number of men killed ashore, I wonder?” The older man asked and had irritation in his voice.

“No, Your Honor.” Callum said and firmed his stance, “They promote from deeds rendered within the service to His Majesty and to our Nation.” Callum said in a snide tone.

“Do not be clever with me, young man.” The older man said and stepped toward Callum, “I know murder when I see it. I should have you clapped in irons for this.”

“I assure you, Your Honor, it could not be helped. And if you were to have me jailed, you would doom this community of ours along with my son.”

“What’s that? What is actually going on here, Callum? And do not try and tell me that this has to do with the security of our Nation.” The Magistrate said. There were two men from the village behind the older man just staring at the bodies. They looked up and looked toward Callum.

“It does not, Your Honor, but it does have to do with the security of my family and our community as I said. These men were sent here to murder my son in an attempt to lure me out and follow a preconceived plan by another, a pirate by the name of Ramirez.” Callum said. The Magistrate went a bit wide eyed.

“Hector Ramirez?” The Magistrate asked.

“The very same.” Callum said, “You know of him?” Callum asked. The Magistrate nodded and looked about at the bodies on the floor. He looked back at Callum.

“And these are some of his men?” The Magistrate asked, Callum nodded his reply, “And somehow they are tied together with those other men that you killed here as well, you and your crew, Guardsmen, weren’t they?”

“Precisely, Your Honor.” Callum said. They locked eyes on one another.

“Then you are a marked man, my boy. May God have mercy on you.” The Magistrate said.

“What can you tell me of Ramirez, Your Honor?” Callum asked. The Magistrate’s face changed, almost going to a blank look, the color draining out of it a bit. He straightened and cleared his throat.

“He is truly evil, they say. He cares for nothing or for no one. It is said that he murdered his own mother simply for the sport of it. If you are indeed in his sights, you are more than dead. I am truly sorry to say that, my boy.” The Magistrate said softly. He looked about at the bodies again, “He will send more and more of them until you are put to an end, you and your son, as you are now both marked.”

“Not unless I get to him first.” Callum said coldly. The Magistrate shook his head.

“That will not be possible. He is too heavily guarded and protected. Many have tried, never to return, that much I know for certain.” The Magistrate said.

“You have obviously dealt with him before, Your Honor.” Callum said. The Magistrate nodded and locked his eyes on Callum’s again.

“Once, when he commanded the Gold Fleet for the Spanish Navy, almost twenty years ago now. It was more than terrible to witness. We watched helplessly as he murdered half our crew that was captured, including the Captain. He slit their throats one by one and made sure we saw it all as they bled to death over the railings of his ship. He is more than a monster, Callum, he is the Devil himself, a man of pure evil.” The Magistrate said, “And now you have brought that devil into our community it seems.”

“It was not my choice, Your Honor, believe me. But I am going to stop him.” Callum said firmly.

“Then we will dig more graves and have them at the ready.” The Magistrate said, “I shall also write a letter and ask for Regulars to be sent here to help keep watch.”

“I will speak to The Duke when I return to London in the morning about that as well.” Callum said. The Magistrate narrowed his eyes a bit.

“I have heard that he is a friend to you.” The Magistrate said.

“Indeed, a true friend.” Callum said. The Magistrate looked over his shoulder.

“Take these men out and place them in the cart. We shall take them back into the village and have them buried.” The Magistrate said. He turned and looked back at Callum, “What of your son?”

“He is,…unsettled, Your Honor, but safe and under close watch and protection.” Callum said.

“Did he witness this?”

“No, Your Honor, he did not. He did witness something else however, and I have the feeling that it will be with him for a long time to come.” Callum said softly, his head down slightly. The Magistrate stepped forward and placed a hand on Callum’s shoulder making him look up.

“Call upon me if you need assistance with anything.” The older man said.

“Thank you, Your Honor, most kind.” Callum said and gave a brief smile toward the older man. They exchanged nods to one another.

Callum sat on the edge of the settee in the parlor of Callum’s Cross. He stared down at the sleeping form of his son, Henry. He was so peaceful in his sleep Callum thought, but he also wondered what Henry might be dreaming of at this moment. Callum could see the little eyelids moving about as if Henry was seeing something as he slept, following movements with his eyes of something. Callum slowly and gently put a flattened hand on the small chest that was rising and falling from the gentle breathing of the small boy. Henry made no movement under Callum’s gentle touch and it saddened Callum as he thought back to the events earlier out in the pasture, Henry being pursued by that man, the struggle between them all, and then Henry being pulled away by Dustin, pulled to relative safety. Callum felt something else now, his thoughts of reliving everything being broken. He looked to his right and saw the hand on his own shoulder and looked up. Dustin stood there beside him, looking down at the sleeping Henry.

“What have I done, Dustin?” Callum asked above a whisper. Dustin shifted his eyes and looked at him.

“What you thought you had to do. What you always do, act as you feel what is necessary to protect us all.” Dustin said above a whisper as well. Callum turned his head and looked down at the little one below him.

“He is too young to understand, too young to know what it is really all about, isn’t he?” Callum asked. Dustin nodded but Callum did not see it.

“He is. But one day, he will understand, Quintan. You will tell him, explain it to him. He deserves that at least. He has been through so much in his young life already, far more than most see in an entire lifetime, yet he endures. He is something to be proud of, that much is certain.” Dustin said in his same tone.

“I agree and am very proud of him. He is a good lad.” Callum said, moving his fingers a bit over the soft cloth of the shirt under them.

“You know, I have always thought that commanding a ship and crew is like having a group of children all at once. They perform and want your acceptance, your pride in them, as well as your love. That’s all that Henry wants as well, Quintan, your acceptance of him and your love as well. You should tell him that, show him.” Dustin said and squeezed his fingers on Callum’s shoulder, “Now, I’m going to take him off to bed. He can sleep up in our room, in our bed, with us. If he wakes during the night, he might need us there to comfort him.”

“That is a good idea.” Callum said and rose up off the settee. He stepped out of the way and let Dustin move in, bend down, and scooped up the small boy in his arms. Henry did not stir at all. Dustin turned with him in his arms. Callum reached out a hand and put it into the hair of the small boy, touching and feeling its softness of the curls in it. Callum lifted his eyes and met Dustin’s, “He looks so like you, especially when he sleeps.” Callum whispered, Dustin smiled and walked toward the stairs, Callum stepping out of the way for him. Callum watched as Dustin climbed the stairs and then was out of sight from the wall.

“Do you want anything, Quintan?” Martha asked from the kitchen doorway. Callum looked at her and smiled warmly in her direction.

“Perhaps some coffee, my dear, if it is not too much trouble. I have a feeling it will be a very long night.” Callum said. Martha just stood there a moment, wringing her hands together. She only pursed her lips, trying to hold back tears that wanted to flow from her eyes. She knew he was leaving again, possibly to never return this time. She turned and went back into the kitchen. Callum heard the bedroom door close at the top of the stairs and then the coffee grinder being turned again and again in the kitchen. Callum came into the kitchen from the parlor and saw Darin coming in through the back door. He closed it gently behind him and tipped his hand toward his Captain.

“Everything is taken care of, sir. The Magistrate has left with his men and,…the others.” Darin said being careful with what he was saying, shifting his eyes toward Martha at the dry sink and then back to Callum, “I took the horses and placed them in the barn. I gave them grain and hay and made sure they also had water, sir. Owen has secured the house and is settled in for the night. I gave him a pistol with dry powder and extra shot just to be sure.”

“Thank you, Darin.” Callum said as he came to the edge of the table. Talon came close to his Captain and stopped. Callum looked at this young boy that he cared for so much, “I also thank you for everything that you have done for my family, I know you have sacrificed your time at home on my account. I cannot repay you for that, I’m afraid.” Callum said, his voice wavered a bit.

“You don’t have to, sir. It was my pleasure, I assure you.” Darin said. Callum lowered his head slightly, “If I may say, sir, it is an honor to know that you trust in me to take care of your family.” Darin reached out a hand and placed it on Callum’s closest arm, lightly touching him. Callum lifted his head and looked him in the eye. He smiled at his young officer and leaned forward, bringing up one arm and putting it around Darin’s shoulders pulling him to him in a tight hug.

“Thank you.” Callum whispered near Darin’s ear.

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Callum sat on the settee, one socked foot up on it, his arm draped over his bent knee, the empty coffee cup was hanging off his fingers. He was lost in his thoughts of the previous evening, the events, what had been said between he and those men from Ramirez. Had he missed something in what they had said? He kept going over and over it in his mind, it playing again and again. All of it. It almost sickened him that he had killed those men, murdered them all, one by one. But, he also thought of Henry, and what those men were possibly going to do to him had he not been there to stop them.

“Quintan. Have you been up all night?” Martha asked. His thoughts were broken as he turned his head at hearing her voice. It had given him a bit of a shock for a moment. He pulled together and looked at her in the predawn light of the parlor.

“I have, my dear. You’re up early.” Callum said.

“My usual as you well know.” She said and gently took the coffee cup from his fingers, “Shall I make more coffee for you?” She asked and he smiled warmly at her silhouette.

“If it is not too much trouble.” Callum said, “I should have done it myself though.”

“You crashing about in my kitchen? I will never stand for that, and you know that as well.” Martha said. Callum watched her silhouette turn and head for the doorway. He grinned openly. She made this place home for him and he loved her for it, the mother that he should have had he thought, as the memory of his own mother was now faded. He dropped his long leg off the settee and rose up off it. He stretched a bit, raising his arms above his head, turning side to side for a moment and then followed her into the kitchen. She was stoking the stove, putting a few sticks in the wood box over the remaining embers. She closed the door of the wood box and poured more water into the empty pot. She added the coffee that was left in the grinder, knowing it was enough and set it on the stove. She looked at him once and then came over to him at the table as he settled on the end bench. She put her soft hand on his shoulder. He looked up at her as she bent and kissed his forehead.

“Must you be off again?” She asked.

“You know the answer to that. It has to be done, for Henry’s sake.” Callum said.

“Of course, you’re right. I was just thinking though that perhaps you could send a letter instead of going yourself.” Martha said, “You have just returned home and he really hasn’t seen you yet.”

“I think he has seen enough of me last evening, enough for a lifetime.” Callum said softly.

“Somehow I don’t think so.” She said and he watched her eyes as she spoke, “You are all he talked about while you have been gone to London. Every day, every moment, you were all he thought of. You can ask Darin and Owen yourself, if you wish. That boy adores you, plain and simple.”

“I have done nothing to earn that from him, nothing at all. We have hardly spent any time together since I have brought him here. What with everything that has happened over all this time, he should be looking at others to adore, like you for instance, my dear.” Callum said. She scowled at him and put a hand on her hip. She raised a hand and shook a finger at him.

“There you are feeling sorry for yourself once again.” She said and shook her head, “When are you going to realize that it is you and only you that that boy loves.” She said and lowered her finger, “Oh yes, he loves Dustin as well, but not like he loves you, Quintan. You’re his father as far as he is concerned, and nothing is going to change that, not in heaven nor earth.” She diverted her eyes from Callum and looked over at the doorway to the parlor, “I said once before that when he hears your voice, he always comes.” She said and nodded toward the doorway. Callum turned on the bench and looked toward the doorway himself. Henry was leaning against it, bleary eyed, raising a small hand up and rubbing his eye once. Callum looked at her and then back at him. He reached out his hands and Henry stepped forward. Callum picked him up and set him in his lap, wrapping his arms around the small boy. Callum kissed the top of his head on his brown curls.

“Why are you up?” Callum asked, resting his cheek against Henry’s head. Henry only shrugged once. He settled against his father’s chest and closed his eyes.

“You see what I mean?” Martha asked softly, “He hears your voice and he comes.” She put a hand on the little curls of the brown hair, “I remember the day you brought him here not so long ago. He was such a sight, all dirty and smelled of the street. But he had a glow about him though, and he still does. That glow comes from you, Quintan, and only you.” She said and smiled. She leaned down and kissed the top of the small brown head and then smiled at Callum. A tear dropped from Callum’s eye. She leaned forward, kissing Callum’s cheek, “Cherish these moments, Quintan, they are few.”

Callum was finishing his dressing in their bedroom upstairs. He tucked the billowed sleeved shirt into his long pants and picked up the vest off the bureau, putting his arms through it and pulling it on. He looked down and started buttoning up from the bottom button. Dustin and Henry sat on the edge of the bed side by side and watched Callum closely. The vest was buttoned and Callum reached for his wide belt, taking it along with the sword in its scabbard and putting the belt around his waist. He buckled it and turned to face the pair on the bed. He gave them both a half smile and a nod.

“The coach should be here in a bit, I think.” Callum said. He looked at the sad faces of the pair. He did not want to dwell on it any longer. He reached for the door.

“Do you have to go?” Henry asked, stopping Callum. Callum looked over at him, letting go of the knob. Dustin looked over and down at Henry beside him.

“I do.” Callum said.

“Why? You just came home.” Henry said, “Did I do something wrong?” The question broke Callum’s heart. He fought back tears and came over to the bed, kneeling down before Henry, putting his arms over the little legs.

“What makes you think you did something wrong?” Callum asked. Henry just shrugged and a tear ran from his eye down his little soft cheek, “You have done nothing wrong, Henry, nothing at all.” Callum said, “I want to stay, I really do, but I can’t.”

“Why?” Henry asked. Dustin put an arm around Henry’s little back.

“Do you remember those men that came last night, the men we fought?” Callum asked, Henry nodded, “They came to hurt you, to take you away from us. I can’t let that happen, Henry. I have to go and stop them from trying to do that again to you.”

“How long will you be gone?” Henry asked.

“I’m not certain.” Callum said, “But Dustin will stay with you, so will Owen.”

“What about Darin?” Henry asked.

“He is going to our ship to get it ready so we can go stop those men.” Callum said, “You like Darin, don’t you?” Henry nodded his reply, “I know he likes you as well. You’ve been very good all this time, Aunt Martha told me, and I’m very proud of you. I need you to be good for a bit longer for Dustin, alright?”

“He will be.” Dustin said as he looked down at Henry, “Won’t you?” Dustin asked and Henry looked up at him and nodded, “That’s my boy.”

“I’m very proud of you, Henry.” Callum said. Henry looked at him again, “And I love you very much, you know that, don’t you?” Callum asked. Henry nodded and dropped more tears. He sobbed.

“Don’t go, Papa, please?” Henry asked.

“It has to be done, Henry, I’m sorry.” Callum said. He reached up a hand and used the back of it to gently wipe away the tears off the soft cheeks, “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

“Promise?”

“I can’t promise you, Henry. I wish I could.” Callum said softly, “But when I do come home, we will go and visit the candy store in Dudley, alright?” Callum asked and gave Henry a smile. Henry nodded and dropped another tear. Callum dropped his smile and leaned forward, wrapping his arms around his son, hugging him tight, “I love you.” Callum whispered.

“Sir, the coach is coming!” Darin called up from the base of the stairs.

“I have to go.” Callum said and let go of Henry. He stood and Dustin did as well. They looked at one another, Dustin’s eyes were deep brown pools of softness, “Look after him and yourself. Keep a weather eye open.”

“I will.” Dustin said. He sniffled once. Callum threw his arms around Dustin’s shoulders and hugged him tight, “Be careful.” Dustin whispered.

“I will, and I will return.” Callum whispered in Dustin’s ear. Callum let him go, turning and went to the door. He threw it open and came down the stairs to Darin and Martha. He leaned to her, hugging her tight and kissing her forehead once. He let her go and looked at Darin, giving him a nod. Darin nodded in reply. He reached out a hand and took Martha’s, bowing and kissing the back of it, then looked up at her from his bow, seeing her eyes were wet, putting her other hand to her mouth, Darin stood and she reached out for him, Callum standing aside. Martha leaned against Darin’s chest, sobbing once. Darin put an arm about her shoulders and pat her back very gently.

“I will not forget you, dear lady, or your kindness to me.” Darin said softly. Martha lifted her head from his chest.

“You had best not forget your way back here, young sir.” Martha said. He smiled warmly at her as she lifted her apron to wipe away the tears, “You need to keep an eye on this one as well.” She nodded once in Callum’s direction.

“Yes, ma’am.” Darin said. He let her hand go, turning and went to the door. He picked up a satchel, slinging it over his shoulder, opening the door, going out, turning back, “Sir, the coach is here and waiting.”

“I will be there directly. Tell the driver to wait a minute.” Callum said over his shoulder. He looked back to Martha as he stood in front of her again, “Listen carefully, my dear, Dustin is in charge of yours and Henry’s safety. If something happens, listen to him carefully and he will see you through.”

“I will.” She said. Her eyes were still dropping tears as she held a corner of her apron.

“If something befalls me and I do not return…”

“Do not say such things, Quintan, it is bad luck.” Martha said slightly aghast. Callum lifted his head a bit to ease her.

“If something keeps me from returning home, Dustin knows what is to be done.” Callum said firmly. She paused a moment and then nodded her head a few times. Callum could hear the footsteps on the stairs coming down slowly, knowing it was Dustin and Henry. He leaned forward and kissed her cheek, “You are always in my heart, remember that.” Callum whispered to her ear. She sobbed openly as he turned and went quickly to the door, opening it further, going out, leaving it open behind him. He went down the path to the gate quickly as Darin was climbing into the coach. Callum made eye contact with the driver. He went through the gate, closing it behind him. He went to the front of the carriage and looked up at the driver.

“Your destination, sir.” The driver said without question to it, sitting on the bench, long coat and tall hat, whip in one hand, reins in the other.

“Do you meet the other coach that goes on to Portsmouth?” Callum asked.

“At Oxford, sir.” The driver said.

“Excellent. My companion will be getting off there, I am going on to London.” Callum said.

“Three shillings, sir, for the both of you.” The driver said. Callum plunged a hand into his pants pocket, pulling out some coins and handed them up.

“There is an extra five there if you get us there quickly, my good man. The matter is rather urgent.” Callum said. The driver took the coins, looking at them briefly then giving Callum a nod.

“We will be there on time, sir, mark my words.” The driver said. Callum went to the coach door that was still open. He looked toward the house, it felt to him that he was looking at it for the last time for some reason. Dustin, Henry, and Martha were standing just outside the door looking toward him. Callum waved once and climbed into the coach. Henry was waving his reply but only after Callum had climbed in, closing the door, the wave not to be seen by Callum.

“Don’t go, Papa.” Henry said quietly with his soft little voice. Dustin put a hand on the little shoulder as the whip snapped in the air, the horses set off and the coach rocked back and forth as it was set into motion.

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“Good day to you, sir.” The older man that was sitting on the rear bench said as Callum settled next to Darin across from the older man. Callum looked at him and then the two ladies that sat on either side of him. Callum shifted his eyes back to the man.

“Good day.” Callum said and went to turn his attention toward Darin but was stopped by the voice of the man. Callum narrowed his eyes a bit toward the older man.

“Where are you bound for?” The older man asked with a half-smile. Clearly, he wanted conversation which Callum did not want, not with him at the moment.

“London.” Callum said flatly. He thought that would be enough for the older man and turned his attention toward Darin again, but was once again interrupted.

“We are going to London as well. Interesting.” The older man said and Callum was becoming irritated by the voice of the man itself, “You have business in London, my good man?”

“Indeed.” Callum said, “Excuse me.” Turning and looking at Darin again.

“I see that you are armed, sir. Are you always in the habit of traveling in such a way?” The older man asked. Callum was now beyond irritation. He looked at the man with a burning of his eyes and leaned forward slightly.

“Yes, my good man, especially when there may possibly be danger on the road traveled.” Callum said. His tone had clear irritation in it. The older man ignored it, tightening his grip on the handle of the walking stick he held, one hand over the other, he thumped the end of it on the coach floor.

“What danger could there conceivably be, sir? This is England, there are laws in place to protect us.” The older man said. Callum raised an eyebrow. He noticed the two ladies to either side of the older man and their looks of concern.

“Have you not heard of highwaymen, sir?” Callum asked, “With the war on, there are those that would prey upon others and lighten their purses for their own gain.”

“Preposterous, sir.” The older man said, thumping his cane tip once again, “I beg you to be careful as there are ladies present, sir.”

“You wanted the truth, I have given it to you, my good man.” Callum said and the older man narrowed his gaze upon Callum.

“I think you are spinning yarns, young sir, possibly seeking adventure as young men often do.” The older man said, his voice raising a bit. Callum had reached his point and beyond. He glared at the older man and leaned forward even more toward him, putting a forearm on one thigh.

“For your information, sir, it was less than a fortnight ago that my companions and I were accosted by certain men that could be considered highwaymen. The end result was not very pretty.” Callum said with a slight growl in his voice. The older man went wide eyed hearing Callum’s words. He sat back in the seat a bit.

“I think that you might be overexaggerating a bit, sir.” The older man said. Callum smirked.

“Think again, my good man. I counted those that were fallen by my own hand, let alone those by my companions.” Callum said. The older man seemed a bit shocked and the two ladies were clearly upset by all of this talk.

“Who are you, sir?” The older man asked.

“He is Admiral Quintan Callum, of His Majesty’s Royal Navy, sir.” Darin said and sounded very proud with his tone. The older man shifted his eyes back and forth between them and then settled upon Callum.

“Therefore, sir, I speak the truth on the matter. Rest assured that those men were dealt with swiftly and justice was exacted.” Callum said in his voice of authority. The older man was silent and sat back fully. Callum looked back and forth between the two ladies, “I apologize if I have caused either of you ladies’ distress with my talk.” Callum said. The two ladies eased a bit but still looked nervous, “I can also assure you, ladies, that there is no cause for concern. Those men I spoke of have been dealt with and there will be no others to cause us any delay.” Callum gave them a slight nod. They returned the nod with gentle looks and brief part smiles.

“I say, you seem a trifle young to be an Admiral, sir, as well as out of uniform.” The older man said and seemed to be pushing with his tone, snorting a bit through his nose.

“Regardless of what you might think, sir, I assure you, I do carry the rank, and though I may be out of uniform, it is through deed, sir, that I carry out my duty fully.” Callum said, his tone was firm and the older man shrank back again but raised an eyebrow.

“What were you trying to say to me, sir?” Darin Talon asked, looking at Callum fully. Callum looked at his young officer next to him on the bench seat.

“When we reach Oxford, there is a transfer to another coach. It will carry you on to Portsmouth, a short journey. I think you will find Mr. Sommers in charge of the deck aboard Dover. Relay to him this, prepare the ship for full sail and recall all hands as swiftly as possible. We will sail with the dawn tide.” Callum said.

“Aye, sir.” Talon said, “And we are bound for?”

“Bristol, Darin. We will sail around the tip of The Channel. The ship we are in search for is lying just outside the Bristol Harbor. We shall take her without notice nor warning and sink her where she is tied. Have Cary make everything ready to give us full sail upon my arrival from the Admiralty.” Callum said.

“I beg your pardon, Admiral, but you mean to sink a ship within British waters, sir?” The older man asked. Callum had had more than enough of this man by now and turned, glaring at him, his eyes beyond burning.

“It is my intention, sir, to sink a ship that is in harbor and is no friend or ally to this Nation. This ship is under pirate control and is therefore an enemy to us, all of us, do I make myself clear?” Callum asked, his throat growling and more than showing his irritation toward this man. The older man was finally understanding the tone Callum was speaking in, “Have you anything to say about naval regulation, my good man?”

“Well,…now that you have raised the point, I suppose that I have.” The older man said. Callum gave him a questioning look, “There are regulations regarding firing upon a ship within our own waters, sir, as I am sure that you are aware of, enemy or not.” The words by the older man struck a chord within Callum, as he knew deep down it was true.

“And just who are you, sir?” Callum asked.

“I, sir, am Durlam Foley, Under Secretary of His Majesty’s Navy.” The older man said, tightening his grip once again on the walking stick head, “You were speaking of pirates, were you not, Admiral?”

“Indeed I was, Mr. Foley.” Callum said, “Have you ever heard of Hector Ramirez?”

“I have indeed.” The older man said with a raised eyebrow and a nod.

“He has sent a ship into our waters to have his crew commit an act of murder.” Callum said and sat back seeing this man in a new light, “And there is more to it as well.”

“Enlighten me, Admiral.” The older man said with almost a smirk.

“Forgive me, sir, but never having laid eyes upon you, let alone having ever heard of you, I am afraid that I am not at liberty to openly discuss the details of the business of the Admiralty.” Callum said. The older man smirked a bit and flashed his eyes toward Callum.

“I have no doubt that you are going to London to seek a meeting with Lord Hood, and then afterward proceed on to your ship. You did mention Dover. I take it you mean HMS Dover, which is docked in Portsmouth at this very moment.” The older man said, his tone a bit more serious which made Callum narrow his eyes toward him, “I was under the impression that you no longer commanded HMS Dover. You are the Quintan Callum, are you not? HMS Dover is currently under the command of a Lt. Thomas Tomlinson if I am not mistaken.”

“Tomlin.” Callum said. The older man nodded.

“I stand corrected. Tomlin.” He said and his tone was flat.

“You seem to have me at a disadvantage, sir.” Callum said, “What brings you so far north?”

“Official business for the Admiralty.” Foley said and leaned forward, “You were about to tell more of Ramirez, Admiral. What do you know of him?”

“I know that he sent men to murder my son, in an attempt to lure me toward a confrontation with him.” Callum said. Darin Talon was looking back and forth between Callum and Foley as each of them spoke in turn.

“You know this to be true?” Foley asked.

“Indeed I do, Mr. Foley. Their attempt failed miserably.” Callum said, crossing his arms over his chest, settling back against the bench, staring at the older man, “But I get the feeling that you already knew that.”

“Why would you say that, Admiral?”

“Why else would you be on this coach, I wonder? Either you have the most remarkable sense of timing, or it was already set into motion to have you here at the right time. You knew, or those that had you placed here knew.” Callum said as the older man smirked a bit.

“It is said that you are very clever, Admiral, and you have just proved what they say about you is true. They also say that you are a man that is full of surprises and not to be underestimated.” Foley said, “So, I will ask again, what else do you know about Ramirez?”

“Sir?” Darin asked out of the corner of his mouth, not taking his eyes off the older man.

“It’s alright, Darin. I think we have possibly been given a new ally in all of this.” Callum said, not moving at all.

“Indeed you have, Admiral, and I thank you for your realization of that fact.” Foley said.

“I am confused.” Darin said.

“It’s really rather simple, Darin.” Callum said, keeping his gaze focused on the older man across from him, “Mr. Foley has been watching all of this play out from a distance, he and his companions, those that give the orders. You know of the ship that Ramirez has sent. You know what he is going to do and why. You also know what I know about him already so there really is no real point in my explaining anything else to you about him.” Callum said and watched the older man carefully, his reactions to what Callum was saying, “So, I think it is time for you to tell me what it is that really want of me, Mr. Foley.” The older man smiled and nodded yet once again.

“Very astute of you, Admiral, and nicely done.” Foley said, “They told me to be careful of you as well. They also are of the opinion that you might have had your sword pointed at my throat by now with everything said so far.” The older man said and Callum now smirked.

“We are just underway, it is still rather early in the trip.” Callum said, the two ladies on either side of the older man seemed terrified. Callum dropped his smirk and looked very serious now seeing Foley’s eyes widen slightly, “I take it that you are going to accompany me to the Admiralty to see Lord Hood?”

“On the contrary, Admiral. I have an appointment at Parliament to address the House of Lords as soon as we reach London. Your meeting with Lord Hood will more than likely be very brief and if I were there, it would only complicate matters for you.” Foley said.

“How so?” Callum asked. Foley parted a slight smile.

“You are only meeting with Lord Hood to inform him that you are going after the ship that Ramirez has anchored in Bristol, informing him that you are taking HMS Dover, rather than just stealing it as it were. You do not wish to follow what Commodore Phelps has already done with his squadron, sailing without orders. If I were there with you, Lord Hood, who knows me very well and the office that I represent, would only have more questions and it would delay you further from obtaining your goal.” Foley said.

“You want me to go after that ship. Why?” Callum asked, and again there was a slight smile from the older man.

“You should have taken that offer with the Diplomatic Service, Admiral. You would have done very well with it.”

“I think not.” Callum said with disgust, “There is far too much deception that is going on for my taste. I am more of a,…direct sort.” He paused for a moment, shifting his eyes toward the two ladies and then back toward Foley, “Why not tell me what this is really all about, Mr. Foley?”

“I think, Admiral, that you have already guessed what this all about.”

“What is it all about, sir?” Darin asked. Callum narrowed his eyes once again.

“Money.” Callum said.

“Money?” Darin asked.

“Correct, Lt. Talon.” Foley said flashing his eyes in Darin’s direction. Darin realized that this man knew who he was even though they had not been formally introduced.

“All of this, everything that we have been through, all those men that have died up to now was all for money, money and the power that comes with it.” Callum said.

“There is a war on, Admiral, as you well know.” Foley said, “A very costly war, one that we must win. Napoleon must be stopped.”

“I do not disagree with you on that point, Mr. Foley.” Callum said, “But I am concerned with how all of you are going about this.”

“Do not think of just yourself, Admiral, there is a greater good that must be served.” Foley said and Callum cocked his head a bit.

“You speak like someone else I could name in this.” Callum said.

“Lord Upton perhaps?” Foley asked, and there was that smile yet once again with a nod, “He was attempting to obtain complete control of all of Europe for his own personal gain and his supposed birthright. We are simply trying to save our Nation. There is a difference.”

“I don’t see it, Mr. Foley.” Callum said.

“Do you have any idea how vast the fortune is that Ramirez has amassed?” Foley asked.

“I have been told that it is considerable.” Callum said.

“That is an understatement, Admiral. Not only has he taken what was in the Spanish Gold Fleet, which was as you put it, considerable, but he has control of the gold fields themselves, plus everything obtained from his raiding in the Caribbean. Not to mention his, and please do forgive me ladies,” Foley said, looking back and forth between the two women to each side of him, “what he makes from his slave trade. Lord Upton was attempting to relieve him of most of it by brokering a deal with Ramirez, tricking him as it were, until you came along and put a stop to that, but you have not stopped Upton’s enforcer yet.”

“Phelps.” Callum said and Foley nodded.

“Such as he is.” Foley said.

“I take it that your opinion of the Commodore is not very high.” Callum said.

“I have found him to be,…lacking, shall we say?” Foley asked. Callum pursed his lips a moment and then gave the older man a smirk.

“I would agree with that. It is my opinion as well.” Callum said, “Perhaps you can clarify a few other points for me, sir?”

“And what is it that you need clarifying, Admiral?” Foley asked.

“For starters, what is it that he wants with me?” Callum asked.

“Revenge, Admiral, plain and simple.” Foley said flatly.

“Revenge is something that comes from someone that cares of or for something, Mr. Foley. I have been told more than once that this man cares for nothing or no one. What revenge is he seeking against me? I have never even met him.” Callum asked.

“You destroyed a Spanish Man-of-War at La Rochelle, did you not?” Foley asked.

“Yes, a mercenary ship that was attacking our squadron there along with the French fleet.”

“It has been said, Admiral, that how you did it was quite remarkable, and that is a matter of record.” Foley said, “That ship was one of Ramirez’s fleet, and aboard that ship, which was commanded by someone that Ramirez trusted completely, was lost by your hand. He seeks revenge for its loss as well as for the loss of his trusted lieutenant, a brother.”

“That does not sound quite right to me, Mr. Foley, and I do apologize. I have also been told that he had a certain family member put to death by his own hand for the sport of it.” Callum said speaking carefully as the two ladies seemed on the verge of fainting.

“That is not quite correct, Admiral. The family member in question that you speak of and what actually happened to her has been greatly exaggerated, I am afraid. That exaggeration has only helped to further his reputation.” Foley said.

“Then he is not quite the monster that I have been told that he is.” Callum said.

“Oh, he is that, Admiral, to say the least for certain. But he does care about certain persons that are or have been close to him. His brother for instance. Ramirez sees you as a threat and will do whatever it takes to bring you out and to put an end to you.” Foley said raising a bushy eyebrow slightly.

“Can you men speak of nothing else?” The lady asked that was sitting across from Darin next to Foley.

“Forgive me, Madam.” Callum said and bowed his head slightly, “I did not wish to distress you ladies.”

“I think you are a bit late for that, sir.” She said and there was more than a tone to her voice, “I would think, sir, that an officer in the service of His Majesty would have better manners than you have shown.”

“I do apologize.” Callum said, “To you both.”

“I apologize as well.” Foley said. The lady fell silent and turned her gaze out of the window of the door watching the countryside drift by as the coach moved along swiftly down the road. Callum turned his attention away from her, looking at the older man sitting across from him, and received a part smile for his look. Callum narrowed his eyes a bit.

“Perhaps you should get some rest, sir.” Talon said, “I was told that you were up all night and have not slept.” Callum looked at his young officer and gave him a soft smile and a slight nod.

“That is very true.” Callum said softly. He settled back against the firm seat and relaxed a bit. The coach rocked back and forth as it rolled down the road and slowly the motion began to rock Callum to sleep. His eyes became heavy after a few minutes and his mind was clearing of all the events up to now. He shifted a bit against the firm seat and then drifted off.

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“Sir?” The voice was calling to him and there was a gentle shaking of his arm. Callum opened his eyes and blinked a few times. The coach was slowing and came to a stop. Darin Talon was looking out the window of the door and then turned back to look at Callum, “We have reached Oxford, sir.”

“Already?” Callum asked and took in a deep breath through his nose, “I must have drifted off.”

“Indeed you did, sir.” Talon said. The driver opened the door of the coach. Callum turned his attention toward him.

“The coach to Portsmouth is not quite here yet.” The driver said.

“We made good time then.” Callum said and the driver nodded once toward him.

“Excuse me.” The lady closest to the door said. The driver looked at her, “Is there another coach to London?” She asked.

“Yes, ma’am.” The driver said, “It will pass through here in another two hours.”

“Can you get my bags down for me, please?” She asked as she started to move off the seat. Callum narrowed his eyes catching a side glance from her, “I think I will take that coach.”

“Something wrong, ma’am?” The driver asked as she stepped out, he took her hand to help her. She looked back into the coach and there was a glare from her.

“I wish to take the other coach is all.” She said flatly.

“As you wish, ma’am.” The driver said and climbed up on the top of the coach and untied her bags, setting them out so he could pull them down with ease. The other lady in the coach was a bit nervous looking. Callum looked over at her and raised an eyebrow. Foley was silent through all of this, not looking about but only looked down at the floor of the coach. The other lady moved as well and got up from her seat.

“I wish to take the other coach as well, driver.” She said. It was the first time that Callum had heard her voice. She climbed down as the driver was setting the bags on the cobbled street. He straightened and looked a bit concerned.

“Are you certain, ma’am?” The driver asked.

“Yes, quite.” She said and did not look back into the coach. Callum looked at Foley once and their eyes met for a long moment.

“Not to worry, sir, I’ll make certain Mr. Sommers has everything ready for your arrival, sir.” Darin said and Callum looked at him. Darin slid off the seat and moved to the door.

“I will see you either tonight or very early in the morning.” Callum said.

“Yes, sir. I hope all goes well at the Admiralty, sir.”

“It will, Lt. Talon.” Foley said interrupting, “A pleasure to make your acquaintance, young sir.”

“Thank you, sir.” Darin said to the older man and then looked at Callum, “Sir.” Darin said and tipped his hand.

“Thank you, Darin.” Callum said. The driver moved to the door as soon as Darin was out of the way.

“We will have a change of horses and be ready in twenty minutes or so, gentlemen.” The driver said.

“Fine.” Callum said, “Is there a place to get a cup of coffee that is close?” Callum asked the driver.

“This inn that is behind me, sir.” The driver said pointing back over his shoulder.

“Excellent.” Callum said and rose up from his bench seat.

“Might I join you, Admiral?” Foley asked stopping Callum. Callum nodded once in the older man’s direction and then continued moving toward the door of the coach. He climbed out and stood on the cobblestone of the street. The driver had moved away going toward the front of the carriage to work on changing the horses. Foley stepped out of the carriage and went toward the inn. Callum frowned slightly and followed the older man.

The inn’s interior was darkly paneled from floor to ceiling. Lamps were about the walls but not lit. The windows that were scattered about had curtains surrounding them, letting the light in from the mid-day sun. Callum noticed they were shear and had some type of floral pattern. A woman’s touch he thought to himself.

Foley sat at one of the tables and raised his walking stick to signal the man behind the long counter, who came around the end after catching the older man’s eye and headed toward that table. Callum came to the edge himself.

“Please, Admiral, do join me.” The older man said and then looked to the innkeeper.

“What will it be, gentlemen?”

“My good man here will have some of your coffee, if you please. I would prefer a brandy myself.” Foley said.

“Of course.” The innkeeper said with a slight smile. He turned away and headed back the way he had come. Callum drew a chair back and slowly sat down at the table.

“Is there something wrong, Admiral?” Foley asked.

“No.” Callum said as he looked about slowly and then brought his gaze back to the older man seated with him, “I was just having a look about that’s all.”

“Do you see anything of interest?” Foley asked.

“The only things I see are patrons that seem to be locals by the looks of them. The inn seems to be owned by a husband and wife. I see a woman’s influence here.” Callum said.

“What else do you notice?” Foley asked in a low voice.

“From the time of day that it is and with several tables empty, either the fare here is not that good or they do not offer much at all.” Callum said. The innkeeper came to the edge of the table.

“Will you gentlemen be wanting to take luncheon?” The innkeeper asked.

“No, my good man, I am afraid that there isn’t time for that. We must board the coach to London very soon.” Foley said.

“Very well.” The innkeeper said.

“My traveling companion has noticed that your house is not very full.” Foley said.

“Indeed, sir. My wife has taken ill and is bedridden for the time being. We are not offering much as I am alone and do not cook very well.” The innkeeper said. Foley flashed his eyes toward Callum for a moment and then back up to the tall man before him.

“I am very sorry to hear that about your wife. Will she be alright?” Foley asked with genuine concern. Callum sipped from his coffee cup as Foley exchanged words with the man.

“The doctor said that she would be, but it will take some time for her to recover. The consumption, you know.” The innkeeper said in a low voice.

“Ahh, I see.” Foley said and looked at Callum once again and then back to the tall man, “Our best to her, my good man.”

“I be thanking you, sir.” The tall man nodded and turned away.

“How did you know?” Foley asked Callum.

“I observe what is about me and deduce, Mr. Foley. Is has served me well in the past and has saved my life many times over.” Callum said putting his empty coffee cup down on the table.

“You were spot on about it. It is rather amazing, Admiral.”

“It is nothing really, Mr. Foley. When one is at sea and about to engage an enemy ship twice your size, you learn to notice things very quickly.” Callum said, “Excuse me a minute if you will.” Callum said and got up from the table, going along the long counter, rounding the corner heading toward the back of the inn. Foley sipped his brandy, finally finishing it. Callum returned and stopped at the counter, pulling a leather purse from his inside vest pocket. He pulled out a couple of notes and placed them on the counter. He said something to the innkeeper and they nodded toward one another. Callum turned and came to the table once again, “Shall we go?” Callum asked the older man, “I believe the driver should be about ready.” Callum left the table edge and went to the door, opening it and going out. Foley got up and followed him.

“Team is ready to go, gentlemen.” The driver said. Callum stood at the door and looked toward the front of the carriage. He saw the lady that had been upset in the coach standing there near the corner on the walk, her bags at her feet. The other lady stood close near her.

“Driver, give me just another moment.” Callum said. The driver nodded and held the door for Foley to climb up and into the coach. Callum walked toward the two ladies and stopped short of them. He bowed almost formally to them and then straightened, “I could not leave without offering my deepest apologies for upsetting you ladies. I truly am sorry for what was said in the coach.” Callum said. The first lady, who was younger turned toward him, flashing her eyes in anger at him.

“If you would simply take your leave of us, sir, it would be much appreciated.” She said and almost spat it with disgust.

“I can see that you are still quite upset, Madam.” Callum said and bowed his head slightly, “Once again, I do apologize most sincerely.”

“And I do not accept your apology, sir. My husband would never in his life speak the way that you did in the presence of ladies.” She said and looked away.

“I see.” Callum said, “Perhaps if your husband had experienced what I have, he might,…” Callum said as she turned toward him again.

“I will have you know, sir, my husband serves as well and he, a gentleman, would never speak as you did.” She said.

“He serves in His Majesty’s Navy?” Callum asked.

“He, sir, is a Captain of the Royal Marines.” She said.

“Interesting. Might I inquire who he is?” Callum asked.

“Captain Charles Emery, sir.” She said with more than a hint of pride. Callum raised an eyebrow toward her.

“Son to General Emery.” Callum said, “I know your husband, Madam. A fine man and officer.”

“I am on my way to meet him actually.” She said. Callum narrowed his eyes a bit.

“Has he returned?”

“Whatever do you mean?” She asked.

“I hate to be the one to tell you, Mrs. Emery, but he sailed with Commodore Phelps aboard the Fleming for the Caribbean.” Callum said, “The Commodore that Mr. Foley and I were speaking of earlier in the coach.” His voice and words were like a ton of brick to her. She tried very hard not to show it but was failing.

“That’s not possible. I received a letter from him only a fortnight ago.” Mrs. Emery said, her voice faltering. Callum stepped a step closer to her.

“It is true I am afraid.” Callum said softly.

“What…what will I do?” She asked, tears welling in her eyes.

“He did not say anything in his letter?” Callum asked. She opened her small handbag that hung from her wrist and pulled out an envelope, handing it over very slowly to him. Callum looked down at it and took it from her hand. He opened it and pulled the letter.

“My dearest Edith, I hope this finds you well. I wanted to send to you an invitation to join me here in London.” Callum read aloud, “I have arranged leave from the garrison for almost a week and have also arranged for lodgings for the both of us. I miss you dearly and hope you will join me soon. My leave may commence with your arrival. Please let me know as soon as you possibly can.” Callum folded the letter and put it back in the envelope handing it back to her. She took it from his fingers as she looked in his concerned eyes, “Did you send a reply?” She nodded slowly, “He must have received it then, if there was time.” Callum thought a moment. Callum took her hand in his gently, “Mrs. Emery, I do apologize and you must believe me with what I say.” Callum said and she nodded again, “Your husband is on a mission for the Admiralty and for the Diplomatic Service. I am certain that if he could have sent you word, he would have. There is an inn near the Admiralty on the next street over, the Boar’s Head. Meet me there this evening and I hopefully will have news of your husband.” Callum said. She just stood there. Callum turned and headed quickly back to the coach, taking the door from the driver, and started to climb in, “All possible speed, driver.” Callum said flatly.

“Of course, sir.” The driver said, heading toward the front of the coach, climbing up, taking the snap whip in his hand. He gathered the reins and snapped the whip, the coach lurching forward on the cobblestone. Callum sat across from Foley and almost sneered at the older man.

“Something wrong, Admiral?” Foley asked as he gripped the top of his walking stick, rocking with the coach.

“Do you know who that lady is?” Callum asked.

“We never exchanged formal introductions I’m afraid.” Foley said.

“She is Mrs. Charles Emery.” Callum said, “the wife of Captain Charles Emery.” Foley was a bit wide eyed, “I know the good Captain, we were at La Rochelle together.”

“Oh, dear God.” Foley said and hung his head a bit.

“Now, Mr. Foley,” Callum said and sat forward a bit on his bench, “I think it is time that you told me everything that you know, and I do mean everything before we reach London.” Callum said as the older man lifted his eyes. He could see the anger growing in Callum’s steel blue eyes quite clearly.

The coach pulled to a halt at the depot stop in London. The driver had made very good time, true to his word. Foley had talked to Callum almost the entire trip from Oxford to London. Callum felt that he knew everything that there was to know about this entire affair, Upton, Ramirez, Phelps, and as well as Rofton, what each had meant to the other in all of their plans, this tangled web that Callum was in the middle of, and then there was Henry and his safety, which was paramount to Callum, his real reason for coming here to London. He had to get to the Admiralty.

“Driver, I need a carriage.” Callum said as he stepped down from the coach. The driver stood up on the railboard of the seat above the coach, giving him an excellent view of the street in all directions. The driver stuck fingers in his mouth and let out a shrill whistle, catching the attention of someone up the street. The driver motioned with a raised arm. Callum looked back and forth between the driver and the new man turning an open carriage with a two-horse team to come in Callum’s direction. Callum nodded his thanks to the driver. Foley stepped out of the coach next to Callum.

“Admiral,” Foley said quietly to Callum’s ear, making Callum turn to face him, “I want to say once again to you, what I have told you is to stay within the strictest of confidence between us. No one else can know of what I have said to you.”

“I do fully understand, Mr. Foley, and I gave you my word on my silence. I do intend to keep it, I assure you.” Callum said as the open carriage drew near to them.

“Lord Hood will not understand it completely I’m afraid.”

“Truth be told, I do not fully understand it myself. However, I will honor what I have said to you. I also wish to thank you for what you have said to me about all of this.” Callum said and Foley’s face changed a bit to one of compassion. He hung his head slightly as Callum reached out his own hand toward him.

“I feel that you, sir, have been through enough with all of this already. There is no need to keep anything further from you.” Foley said as he took Callum’s hand in his own, their eyes met as Foley lifted his head.

“I will be forever grateful, Mr. Foley.”

“Just promise me one thing, Admiral.” Foley said as Callum cocked his head slightly. The open carriage drew up in front of them, the driver waiting silently, “End him. Do whatever you must to end him.”

“Of that you can be sure of, Mr. Foley.” Callum said and took his hand back from the older man. He turned and looked toward the driver of the open carriage, “Do you know the Admiralty?” Callum asked, the driver nodded, “We must reach it with all speed.” Callum said as he opened the carriage door, climbing in and sat down, pulling the half door closed. The driver snapped his whip in the air as well as the reins and the horses set off, throwing Callum back slightly against the back of the seat.

The driver swung the carriage around the corner at almost full speed of the horses, the wheels sliding a bit, making Callum slide on the seat himself. He placed his hands on the wall of the carriage to steady himself and he smiled openly as the driver had raced through the streets of London to get him here quickly. The reins were pulled up and the carriage came to a halt before the grand building that housed the Admiralty. Callum rose out of his seat in the back and shoved his hand into his pocket pulling out some coin. He handed them to the driver over the driver’s shoulder and used his other to pat the man’s back.

“Nicely done.” Callum said softly to the driver’s ear, “If I need your services again, I know of whom to summon now.”

“At your service, sir, anytime.” The driver said with a tip of his hand with the coins in it. Callum climbed out of the carriage and started across the broad stone steps going toward the Marine Sentries. They looked toward him and one recognized him and opened a door for him. Callum nodded and went through the door, going toward the foyer. The Registrar looked up and was a bit wide eyed.

“Admiral Callum.” He said and bowed his head slightly.

“I need to see Lord Hood.” Callum said.

“I am afraid His Lordship is not here, sir. He is with His Grace at Buckingham, sir.” The Registrar said. Callum became angered, not with the man before him, but with himself, “Lord Fitzwarren is in his chambers however.”

“His Lordship will do then.”

“Of course, sir.” The Registrar said, turning and picked up a quill, dipping it in the inkwell. He signed the book on the table in front of him, placing the quill back in the holder, turning and signaled a young officer, a Paige. The young officer came over, tipping his hand to Callum, recognizing him immediately, “Take Admiral Callum to Lord Fitzwarren.”

“Yes, sir.” The young officer said, holding out a hand to indicate the way, Callum followed as the young man started to ascend the stairs. They were about half way up them, Callum saw his old friend at the upper landing, Captain William Arvin.

“Admiral Callum.” Arvin said with a nod and a smile.

“William, it is good to see you.” Callum said, going around the young officer who had stopped a moment.

“Likewise, Admiral.” Arvin said, he turned his attention to the young officer, “I will take him the rest of the way. See to your other duties.” Arvin said in his tone of authority.

“Very good, sir.” The young officer said, tipping his hand toward Arvin. The young officer looked at Callum, tipping his hand toward him as well, “Admiral.” Callum nodded in the boy’s direction.

“Thank you.” Callum said softly to him and went up the stairs to join Arvin. He came up next to his old friend.

“What have you done now, Quintan?” Arvin asked softly as they locked eyes on one another.

“What do you mean?” Callum asked.

“I mean that Lord Hood went off to meet with The King with Wellesley this morning. He was barking orders about before he left.” Arvin said.

“What orders?” Callum asked without moving.

“Hood has ordered all crews and officers are to report to their ships that are docked not only here in London, but as well as Southport and Portsmouth. With you here, I can only assume that it has something to do with you.” Arvin said.

“You know me too well, William.”

“What is going on?” Arvin asked.

“There was an attempt on my son’s life at my home. I was able to arrive just in time to stop it, but there are more of them here, right now in Bristol.” Callum said.

“Who?” Arvin asked. Callum narrowed his eyes a bit.

“I take it that you have no idea at all of what is really going on, do you?” Callum asked. Arvin shook his head slightly, “I wish I had the time to explain everything to you fully, but I must be on my way.”

“What do you need Lord Hood for?” Arvin asked.

“I am taking Dover and am going after those that are responsible. They are docked in Bristol right now as I said.” Callum said. Arvin narrowed his eyes a bit.

“You intend on destroying them, don’t you?” Arvin asked.

“Would you not do the same if it was your family in jeopardy?” Callum asked.

“I suppose I would.” Arvin said, “But there are regulations against firing on a ship within our own waters, especially if they are at anchor and have no warning.”

“Don’t quote rules to me, William.” Callum said, looking at his old friend, eyes filling with anger, “These bastards are cutthroats, pirates.”

“You’re certain?” Arvin asked and with seeing the look on Callum’s face, realized it was a silly question, “Of course you are. Why did I even ask?” Arvin said and put a hand on Callum’s shoulder before him, “Just be careful, Quintan. You must word it carefully to Fitzwarren or he will have you clapped in irons for certain, if not to just calm you.”

“I don’t want to be calm, William, I want them dead, all of them.”

“Quintan, please, calm yourself before you see him.” Arvin said and squeezed his fingers a bit more on the shoulder before him, “It’s for your own sake, as well as your son’s.” Callum listened to him and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly through his nose. He nodded a bit.

“I hear you, my friend, and I also thank you for what you are trying to do.” Callum said. Arvin gave him a slight smirk in reply.

“I owe you this much at least.” Arvin said. Callum eased a bit and smiled at his old friend.

“If you think you do, my friend.” Callum said softly, “However, I do not, and remember that.”

“Let me take you to His Lordship.” Arvin said, turning on his wooden leg, hobbling toward the chamber doors and the waiting Barrington. The older man was formally dressed. He bowed his head slightly as the pair approached, “Admiral Callum to see His Lordship, Barrington.”

“Of course, sir.” The older man said in his rich voice, “Admiral.”

“Barrington, good to see you.” Callum said with a slight smile.

“And you, sir.” Barrington said. He turned and knocked once. He opened the door and stepped in, “Admiral Callum to see you, My Lord.” Barrington was bowing his head slightly, his hand on the knob of the door.

“Callum? Send him in.” Fitzwarren’s booming voice could be heard. Arvin and Callum gave each other side glances at hearing him.

“Remember what I said.” Arvin whispered. Callum nodded and then stepped forward, Barrington stepping out of the way for him. Callum halted himself inside the great room. He saw the older man sitting at the end of the large table, rising up. Barrington stepped out and closed the door leaving the two of them alone.

“Callum, you look well.” Fitzwarren said as he came round the end of the table, stopping and put a hand on his hip.

“Thank you, My Lord.” Callum said, bowing his head slightly.

“You seem to have disappeared after our last meeting with your promotion. Where the devil have you been?” Fitzwarren asked.

“Occupied, My Lord.” Callum said.

“Do not be flippant with me, sir. I have neither the time nor the temperament.” Fitzwarren said with a stern tone, “We have needed you here.”

“I can understand that, My Lord, but I have been pulled in other directions. I would have thought Lord Hood would have explained the circumstances to you.” Callum said, remembering Arvin’s words and easing himself a bit. Fitzwarren dropped his hand from his hip, turning away from Callum. He walked toward the far end of the table where he had been.

“I am afraid that His Lordship has been rather quiet regarding you, Callum.” Fitzwarren said as he went beyond the table to the large sideboard against the wall. He reached out for a decanter, unstopping it and lifted it. He poured into two glasses, he set the decanter down and replaced the stopper. He lifted the two glasses and turned. He came toward Callum and handed one glass toward him, “But from what I hear, you have caused quite a stir recently.”

“Thank you, My Lord.” Callum said as he took the glass from the older hand.

“I also hear that you have had some trouble at home. Is everything alright there?” Fitzwarren asked.

“For the moment, My Lord.” Callum said and felt that he needed to be guarded all of a sudden. He thought to himself as Fitzwarren moved to an overstuffed arm chair and sat down, the events that happened at Harbroughs had only happened last evening. How could he know of it so quickly? Fitzwarren indicated with a hand to have Callum sit down in another chair close to him. Callum moved and sat down.

“I am glad that everything is alright. Why don’t we speak of what it is that has brought you here?” Fitzwarren asked.

“As you wish, My Lord.” Callum said as Fitzwarren sipped his brandy, “I had come here to inform Lord Hood that I am taking Dover.”

“Take her where?” Fitzwarren asked.

“Bristol, My Lord.” Callum said.

“And what is in Bristol that requires you to take a ship of the line?”

“I will not bandy words with you, My Lord. We both know what is there.” Callum said, his irritation growing. Fitzwarren set his glass down and looked directly at Callum.

“I am afraid that I don’t know what it is that you mean.” Fitzwarren said, “You will have to explain it to me. I am trying to work with you, Callum, not against you.”

“Very well, My Lord, I apologize. But first, may I ask you a question?”

“Certainly.” Fitzwarren said.

“What trouble is it that you think that I had at home?” Callum asked.

“It was relayed to me that it had something to do with your son, a matter of life and death as it were.”

“And who relayed that to you?” Callum asked as there was knock on the door of the chamber.

“Come in.” Fitzwarren boomed, “What is it Barrington?”

“Your afternoon appointment is here, My Lord.” Barrington’s rich voice said as he bowed his head.

“Show him in.” Fitzwarren said as he rose out of his chair, Callum stood as well, “I think you may have the answer to your question, Callum.” Fitzwarren said quietly as Callum turned and saw who came in through the door, limping slightly and using a cane to help him.

“Paupling.” Callum said under his breath.

“My Lord.” The tall thin man said bowing his head slightly, “Admiral Callum, I was not aware that you were here, sir. A pleasure to see you again.”

“You two know each other I take it.” Fitzwarren said.

“Indeed we do, My Lord.” Callum said as he narrowed his eyes a bit toward the tall man that came across the chamber toward them. Fitzwarren gave Callum a look with a raised eyebrow and then looked back toward the tall thin man.

“Judging by your reaction, I take it that you do not care for my guest very much, Callum?”

“To put it mildly, My Lord.” Callum said, “Your ‘guest’ has been at the core of most of what I have been put through, My Lord.”

“That is very true I am sad to say.” Paupling said as he came close to Callum and Fitzwarren, stopping and putting his weight on the cane he held, “However, you have done quite admirably with it I must say. Congratulations upon your promotion as well.” Paupling stretched out his hand. Callum looked at it but did not take it. Paupling looked down and then withdrew it, “I can think of no one that is more deserving of it.”

“What you think is not important to me, Paupling.” Callum said flatly, “Now it all makes sense, My Lord, and you are correct that it does answer my question as to how you knew about what was going on at my home. But that does not answer the real question, does it?” Callum asked and stepped in front of Paupling, “Why did you let this happen?”

“Let what happen?” Fitzwarren asked and there was a slight smirk on Paupling’s face. Callum balled up a fist and moved so fast, pounding Paupling once in the jaw, knocking the man back and to the floor, “Callum!” Fitzwarren yelled as Callum stood over the man on the floor, balling up the collar of Paupling’s jacket and pulling him up a little, Callum balled up his fist to strike again.

“My son? You black hearted son-of-a-bitch, they almost killed him.” Callum growled.

“Callum!” Fitzwarren said as he grabbed Callum by the pulled back arm.

“But they didn’t kill him, did they, Admiral? You were in time to stop them, weren’t you?” Paupling asked.

“Who are you talking about?” Fitzwarren asked, “Who did you stop, Callum?”

“I should kill you right now, Paupling.” Callum said and let go of the collar with a push, thrusting Paupling back to the floor. Fitzwarren pulled Callum back toward him.

“Someone had better explain this to me.” Fitzwarren said, “Who did you stop, Callum?”

“Pirates, My Lord, some of Ramirez’s men that were sent to murder my son.” Callum said, his eyes never leaving Paupling.

“What?” Fitzwarren asked. He let go of Callum and stepped next to him looking down at Paupling, “Is this true?”

“I’m afraid it is.” Paupling said.

“Are you out of your mind?” Fitzwarren asked Paupling, “There was nothing said about this at all. You would have been a party to murdering an innocent boy? Perhaps I should not stand in the way of him killing you.”

“It will not solve the situation if he does, My Lord, and you know that.” Paupling said to Fitzwarren as Callum went to move to come around Fitzwarren.

“You knew nothing of my son in this, My Lord?” Callum asked.

“I swear to you, no.” Fitzwarren said with a side glance toward Callum.

“What situation do you speak of, Paupling?” Callum asked.

“Ask that of His Lordship.” Paupling said. Callum reached down with both hands and grabbed him.

“I am asking you.” Callum growled as he drew Paupling up off the floor a bit, “I am tired of all of this deceit. Tell me or by God I will draw my sword and gut you right here on this floor.”

“Tell him, Paupling, tell him now.” Fitzwarren said.

“You know I cannot do that, My Lord.” Paupling said. Callum shoved him back to the floor and stood over him. He put his hand on his sword, there was fear in Paupling’s eyes. Fitzwarren turned and put his hand on Callum’s to stop him.

“Do not.” Fitzwarren said. His voice was calm as he and Callum looked at one another, “I will tell you what I know of this. Do not kill him here.”

“Tell me, My Lord, where shall I kill him?” Callum asked and Fitzwarren gave him a half smile, almost a smirk.

“We can decide that later.” Fitzwarren said. His expression changed as he looked back down at Paupling, “Get up off the floor, man, you are a pathetic sight lying there as you are.” Fitzwarren looked back at Callum, “Perhaps you should sit down for this.”

“Perhaps I should empty your decanter of brandy first, for I think I already know what you are going to tell me, My Lord.” Callum said slightly cocking his head.

“Do not become a drunkard on me, Callum, as Renner became.” Fitzwarren said.

“Another fact that you kept from me, My Lord.” Callum said.

“An omission, a necessary one as well.” Fitzwarren said.

“That omission cost lives, My Lord.” Callum said, his voice was cold.

“I know.” Fitzwarren said softly. He looked down at Paupling as he struggled to get up off the floor. Callum turned away, reaching for his glass, picking it up, and turned back to look at Fitzwarren. Callum put the glass to his lips, tilting it and drained it. He took the glass and set it down on the small table.

“Now, if I may, My Lord, I will be taking my leave of you. I have a ship to catch.” Callum said.

“Just a moment, Callum, we are not done as of yet.” Fitzwarren said as Paupling steadied himself on his good foot and the cane.

“I came here merely as a courtesy, My Lord, only to inform The Admiralty that I was taking Dover. As far as anything else, I already know where the Admiralty stands in all of this. Once I have done what I need to do, I will return Dover to Portsmouth and will be returning to my home once and for all.” Callum said.

“But what of Ramirez and Phelps? You have been tasked to,…” Fitzwarren said but Callum cut him off.

“They are not my problem, My Lord. All of you have created this ‘situation’ yourselves, this little group of yours. You will need to solve your problems without me I’m afraid.” Callum said.

“You must not go without promising me first that you will return here.” Fitzwarren said. Callum looked at him squarely and narrowed his eyes.

“I am done with all of this, My Lord.”

“No, you are not.” Fitzwarren said. He placed his hand on Callum’s arm, “We need you.” Fitzwarren said with a pleading look, “I need you.” He said softly. Callum paused a long moment. He had never heard Fitzwarren speak like this. Callum nodded once, “Take your ship and do what you have to do, but return here afterward.” Fitzwarren said softly.

“As you say, My Lord.” Callum said just as softly. Fitzwarren took his hand back from Callum’s arm. Callum moved, going around Fitzwarren. Paupling was in the way, another slight smirk on his face. Callum pushed him hard, knocking him back as he went by. Paupling staggered on his good foot and cane.

“Was that really necessary, Admiral?” Paupling asked. Callum stopped, turned and glared at him.

“If I ever see you again, Paupling, there will be nothing or no one to stop me from killing you.” Callum growled. The words hung in the air for a moment, Callum turned and strode to the door, opening it and went out. Fitzwarren was just looking at the tall man standing there but said nothing.

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Callum opened the door of the inn, The Boar’s Head. He stepped into the large foyer, closing the door behind him. He could hear the sounds of conversation and laughter in the tavern portion and they were most welcoming to him. It was almost like coming home. He looked in, seeing the innkeeper behind the long counter, serving tankards to a couple of men there. Callum nodded at him as their eyes met. The innkeeper smiled briefly. Callum went to go to the stairs, but was stopped by the girl, the innkeeper’s daughter. She curtsied to him and he smiled.

“Welcome back, sir.” She said in her soft voice, “Is Mr. Perkins with you?”

“I’m afraid he is not, my miss. He is at home.” Callum said.

“I see.” She said and gave him a sad look for a moment. Callum knew how she felt about Dustin, her deep feelings of admiration toward him as he more than felt them himself.

“Perhaps you will see him again soon.” Callum said to try and make her feel better, “Are my friends upstairs?”

“They are, sir. The doctor is also here tending to Captain Holt.” She said, “I have also freshened your room as well, sir.”

“Thank you.” Callum said and gave her a soft smile. She curtsied again and he went up the stairs. Callum rounded the railing and went to the far door, seeing it was ajar. He knocked once and opened it slowly. Callum stepped in, “Am I interrupting?” Callum asked. Thomas turned and looked at him, his eyes wide, filled with worry. Christian was sitting on the edge of the bed on the far side, Dr. Arthur Crawford was looking at the wound, checking the stitches that had been put there in Christian’s chest and side.

“Quintan, thank God.” Thomas said as he came toward him, his arm still in a sling, “We have been worried sick. Is everything alright?”

“For the moment.” Callum said. Christian was looking over his shoulder toward Callum, “You are looking much better, Christian.”

“He is at that, I must say.” Crawford said as he straightened, looking toward Callum.

“I feel much better as well.” Christian said.

“Tell us. What happened at home?” Thomas asked as he came close to Callum.

“It is a rather sorted tale to be sure.” Callum said as he looked at his friend.

“I have received a summons to return to Dover, Quintan, what is going on?” Crawford asked. Callum looked at him.

“Apparently all crews and ships are to be readied to sail, Lord Hood’s orders.” Callum said.

“Are we mounting an offensive?” Crawford asked.

“Where is Dustin?” Thomas asked.

“I had him stay at home to watch over Henry.” Callum said to Thomas then looked at Crawford, “To answer your question, Arthur, I am.”

“What do you mean?” Thomas asked.

“I am taking Dover and going to Bristol.” Callum said.

“For what?” Thomas asked.

“This will take some time to catch you up.” Callum said. Callum put a hand on Thomas’ good arm and pat it gently as he went around him, Thomas turning to watch him as Callum went around the bed. All eyes were on him as Callum went to the window, he sat on the window seat, adjusting his sword to let it lay straight along his left leg. Callum folded his arms over his chest.

“Why are you taking Dover?” Thomas asked as he sat on the corner of the bed near Christian.

“There is a pirate that has sent a ship to Bristol.” Callum began, “Those men were sent to murder Henry, to lure me out. This pirate, Ramirez, is part of all of this that we have been through with Upton.”

“I don’t understand.” Thomas said.

“Ramirez commanded the Spanish Gold Fleet once before he turned to piracy. Do you remember the Spanish Man-of-War at La Rochelle?” Callum asked. Thomas nodded his reply, “Apparently that was one of his ships, part of his fleet. His brother was in command of it and was killed during our attack on it. This Ramirez wants revenge for his brother.”

“What does this have to do with Upton?” Thomas asked.

“Upton was brokering different deals to assure that his plans were carried out. Ramirez is one part of it. This Rofton was another.” Callum said.

“The one that was trying to kill Hans.” Thomas said, “The uncle.”

“Yes.” Callum said with a nod, “And there is more to it. Phelps and his father were also involved, providing shipping to carry troops and supplies to mount an invasion of England.”

“The uniforms.” Thomas said, Callum nodded again, “The warehouse on the docks.”

“Exactly.” Callum said, “But Phelps has a different mission now. He does not know that Upton has been stopped and is imprisoned.”

“What is his mission?” Thomas asked.

“To take control of Ramirez’s fortune, and everything that he controls, the gold fields in South America.” Callum said, “I was ordered by Lord Hood to pursue Phelps with our squadron and to stop him but was not told all of it.”

“What else is there?” Thomas asked.

“I have learned that what they really want is the gold.” Callum said.

“Who wants it?”

“The Diplomatic Service and the Admiralty.” Callum said.

“Are you serious?” Crawford asked, “Are we that petty and greedy?”

“Apparently.” Callum said.

“All of this, everything that we have been through so far, for what, a couple of tons of gold?” Thomas asked.

“No.” Callum said, “It is far more than that.” He looked at all of them, his friends, “I have it on good authority that it is worth several hundreds of millions actually.”

“What authority? Hopefully it is not that Paupling fellow, Quintan. You know you cannot believe a word that comes out of his mouth.” Thomas said.

“No,” Callum said and sighed, “it was not Paupling. It was someone else with a higher authority.” Callum looked at all of them again, “You must understand that what I have said must not be repeated outside of this room. I gave my word that I would not say anything to anyone, but I know that I can trust each of you completely. There are also other things about this that I am not at liberty to discuss.”

“Of course.” Thomas said. Christian nodded as well.

“Arthur?” Callum asked.

“Of course, Quintan.” Crawford said and Callum could tell that he was thinking, “Why the recall of all the ships and crews then?”

“The various squadrons will be given orders to sail to capture all of the merchant ships that are involved in this and return them here to England wherever they might be.” Callum said.

“Why are you going to Bristol?” Thomas asked.

“To sink that pirate ship that is there, to stop that crew. They will continue to send more of them after Henry.” Callum said. Thomas and Christian were wide eyed, “I am going to end this, this threat to him.” His tone had anger to it.

“They tried, didn’t they?” Thomas asked. Callum nodded.

“They were unsuccessful. I learned from them where their ship is anchored and that they would keep trying.”

“I will come with you.” Thomas said and stood.

“Your arm is not mended yet.” Callum said.

“It is well enough for me to stand and to sail my ship.” Thomas said.

“I will do this, Thomas.” Callum said.

“I was granted command of Dover, Quintan. I will sail her. You can take command of the action if you wish when we reach Bristol.” Thomas said.

“I will come with you as well.” Christian said. Callum shifted his eyes at Christian, “You are not going to leave me here while you two go and do this.”

“I don’t think you are well enough yet, Christian.” Callum said. Christian smiled.

“He is well enough, I suppose.” Crawford said, “And I will be there as well since I am now recalled. Besides, he will not stay in bed as I have said repeatedly to him.”

“Alright, only if you are sanctioning this, Arthur.” Callum said.

“If I am there, I can keep an eye on the both of them.” Crawford said, “Besides, someone needs to keep an eye on you as well, Admiral.” Crawford smirked.

“Ah, ulterior motives.” Callum raised an eyebrow at his old friend.

“Oh, I don’t think so. What danger can a few pirates hold?” Crawford asked. Callum looked serious.

“These men are desperate and will do whatever it takes to follow their commander’s orders, even to the death. I have seen it firsthand. Besides, she is a ninety-six gunner.” Callum said.

“When do we sail?” Thomas asked as he narrowed his eyes.

“With the dawn tide.” Callum said.

“We have to pack.” Thomas said. He went to go start pulling things together to place in the trunk. There was a knock on the door, “What now?” Thomas asked and went to it. He opened it, “Quintan?” Thomas asked as he turned and looked back toward Callum. Callum looked in Thomas’ direction and saw her standing there.

“What is it, Angelica?” Callum asked. The innkeeper’s daughter curtsied at the doorway.

“Beg pardon, sir, but there is a lady downstairs asking to see you.” The girl said. Callum pursed his lips together and uncrossed his arms.

“Tell her I will be down directly, will you?” Callum asked. The girl curtsied again, turning away from the door.

“A lady?” Crawford asked as he looked at Callum.

“I had almost forgotten.” Callum said and looked at Christian, “Are you well enough to get dressed? This might be of interest to you.”

“To me?” Christian asked.

“Yes.” Callum said and rose to his feet, “It just might. And then after, I need to pack as well. We can all leave tonight. I will arrange transportation for us.”

“Who is downstairs?” Thomas asked.

“Come and join us and find out.” Callum said, going around the end of the bed, “I need to get some better clothes on first though.”

Callum came down the stairs. He had changed into his best tunic that Dustin had thoughtfully packed in the trunk for him when they first came to London, which seemed like ages ago. Callum came into the tavern portion and looked about and then to his right. In the corner there sat the lady that waited for him. He stepped close to the table and she lifted her eyes to see him there in full uniform. Callum bowed his head.

“Mrs. Emery, good of you to come.” Callum said seeing her rise and nothing on the table at all for her, “May I get you something?”

“I am not in the habit of partaking of taverns, sir.” She said softly, shifting her eyes about.

“I assure you this is quite a respectable house, Mrs. Emery. Will you allow me?” Callum asked and before she could answer, Callum turned and looked toward the long counter, “Some of your excellent tea for the lady, if you please.” Callum said and the innkeeper smiled and nodded. He went quickly toward the kitchen, Callum turned back to her, “Please, make yourself comfortable.” Callum said holding out a hand.

“You show quite a different manner, sir, then you did on the coach.” Mrs. Emery said, taking her chair once again.

“As I said earlier to you, I apologize. It was most regrettable that I upset both of you ladies. I was caught up in the moment conversing with Mr. Foley.” Callum said sincerely with another bow of his head.

“I will accept your apology, Admiral.” She said softly, putting her hands on her lap, looking down slightly, “I have found out that you were correct in what you told me about my husband.”

“I am very sorry of that, Mrs. Emery, I did not have a chance to learn anything else when I was at the Admiralty.” Callum said.

“I understand, Admiral.” She said as she lifted her eyes to look up at him still standing on the other side of the table, “I do not know what I am going to do now with him gone like this.” She was clearly upset about the situation and Callum felt for her.

“Where did you travel from, Mrs. Emery?” Callum asked.

“From my parent’s home in Blackpool. Do you know it?” Mrs. Emery asked.

“Up on the north coast I believe. I have heard of it but have not ever been there.” Callum said.

“It is a pretty place, actually, very peaceful, but there are strong winds constantly.” She said.

“I am certain that there are.” Callum said. The innkeeper came with a tray and set the tea service down in the center of the table. Callum smiled softly as he noticed the tea was served in fine china that he had never seen before here. The innkeeper straightened and stood next to Callum.

“Will there be anything else, sir?”

“We might partake of supper in short time. I will let you know.” Callum said softly without looking at him fully.

“Very good, sir.” The innkeeper said and left. Callum looked at her and she him.

“Please, Admiral, won’t you sit down?” She asked.

“Thank you, Mrs. Emery, I will.” Callum said. He felt awkward for a moment as she waited for him. He was not accustomed to dealing with pleasantries like this, especially with women, and had no experience in what he was supposed to do.

“Mrs. Emery?” Christian asked as he came next to the table. She looked up and saw him, recognizing him right away and was relieved to see a familiar face.

“Lieutenant Holt.” She said and put out her hand toward him, fingers outward, palm down. Christian immediately stepped in and took her hand, bowing formally, kissing the back of it lightly, as he snapped his heels together. Callum looked over and was more than relieved as Christian was very spot on with his timing. Callum rose out of his chair as he saw Christian was in uniform. Christian raised his head slightly, still balancing her hand in his.

“It is wonderful to see you again, Mrs. Emery.” Christian said.

“Admiral Callum, you did not tell me you were in good company.” She said softly with a slight smile, the first that Callum had seen from her.

“Again, I apologize, Mrs. Emery, for my shortcomings.” Callum said and saw his other friends there behind Christian, “May I preset Captain Thomas Tomlin and Dr. Arthur Crawford.” Callum said and slightly waved a hand, “Gentlemen, may I introduce Mrs. Charles Emery, the wife of Captain Charles Emery of the Royal Marines.”

“Mrs. Emery, an honor.” Crawford said as he and Thomas both gave formal bows to the lady at the table, “I seem to recall your husband I think.”

“Yes, you should, Arthur.” Callum said, “He was the Marine Captain that was at La Rochelle. You tended to his wounds.”

“Of course, he is one that you carried into the fortress, Quintan.” Crawford said. She looked up and was staring at Callum.

“You were the ship’s Captain that my husband spoke of that saved his life.” She said. Callum waved a hand slightly.

“I was only doing what he would have done himself had he been in my position.” Callum said.

“Far more than, Quintan.” Thomas said and rolled his eyes a bit, “You certainly have the most unique talent for understatement.”

“It was nothing, I assure you, Mrs. Emery.” Callum said.

“May I pour your tea for you, my lady?” Christian asked and was in his element now, his growing up in all of this sort of thing, high teas, ladies, along with gentlemen, all in high society and exercising proper etiquette. Callum smiled out of the corner of his mouth as Christian set about it, pouring and serving her.

“Thank you, Lt. Holt.” She said and seemed to be a little more relaxed now.

“Actually, he has been promoted to Captain.” Thomas said. She smiled and looked at Christian as he moved back from the table a bit.

“I had not heard.” She said with all politeness, “Congratulations to you.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Emery.” Christian said with a bow of his head.

“Gentlemen, please, I have forgotten my manners. Would you join me?” She asked. Callum pulled out his chair and slowly sat again, Christian slowly came down at Callum’s right, Thomas and Crawford came to Callum’s left, both taking chairs, Crawford next to the lady.

“Mrs. Emery, may I ask where you found out the information about your husband?” Callum asked. She sipped her tea and smiled slightly at it, then set the cup down.

“I went directly to the garrison here in London and spoke to the Adjunct Officer. He confirmed for me that my husband did sail with his troop, with Commodore Phelps and his squadron.” She said.

“Yes, most regrettable.” Callum said.

“But there was something else as well, Admiral.” She said and reached into her small handbag that was about her wrist. She pulled out another envelope and held it in her fingers. Callum could see it clearly and waited as she seemed to be guarding it for a long moment. She handed it out slowly. Callum leaned forward and took it from her, “It has something quite personal in it as well.”

“I will be,…delicate.” Callum said. He opened the envelope and pulled the letter. He read it quickly and then lifted his eyes to meet hers. He folded the letter up and put it back in the envelope, “Was this sealed when it was given to you, Mrs. Emery?” Callum asked as he handed the letter back to her.

“Why, yes it was. That’s an odd question to ask.” She said.

“Something in the letter has bothered you, Quintan, what is it?” Thomas asked. Callum shook his head slightly.

“Not here, there are too many ears about.” Callum said softly and then cleared his throat. He looked at the lady across the table from him, “I do not mean to pry, Mrs. Emery, or to be forward, but do you have lodgings?”

“No, I do not, Admiral.” She hung her head slightly as if embarrassed about her situation, “With my husband being gone as such, he had said in his first letter that he had made arrangements but I do not know what they were.”

“Yes, I recall.” Callum said, “Mrs. Emery, again, I do not mean to be forward, but we will be leaving for our ship later this evening after I arrange transportation for us. I wish to present to you the room that I had occupied here in this inn. It has been freshened and you are more than welcome to it until you decide what you would like to do. I assure you that it has been paid for fully and all I need do is to have my things removed from it.”

“That is very generous of you, Admiral, but I,…”

“I insist, especially after what you have been through today. It is the least that I can do, dear lady.” Callum said. He did not wait for her to argue against it and turned in his chair, signaling the innkeeper with a raised finger. The innkeeper smiled and came around the counter and toward the table.

“Yes, sir?” The innkeeper asked as he came to Callum’s side.

“Mr. Mills, this is Mrs. Charles Emery,” Callum said, holding out a hand to introduce her, the innkeeper nodded toward her, “she will be taking my room over as my companions and I are leaving to join our ship later this evening. I will be settling accounts with you shortly. Would you be so kind as to have Angelica take my things and pack them for me?”

“Why, of course, sir.” Mills said, “You gentlemen are actually leaving us?”

“Yes, I am sorry to say, my good man, we have all been recalled back to duty it seems.” Callum said.

“As you wish, sir.”

“I do believe that we will have our supper now as well, if you wouldn’t mind, and also a bottle of your best wine.” Callum said with a half-smile.

“Of course, sir.” Mills said and turned away.

“They serve a very fine supper here, Mrs. Emery.” Crawford said as he leaned closer to her.

“Is that so, Doctor?”

“Indeed, Madam. I have frequented this establishment for a good number of years. Mrs. Mills, the wife of the innkeeper, is a very fine cook.” Crawford said.

“You can take that on good authority, Mrs. Emery, believe me, if anything, our good ship’s doctor knows a fine meal when it is to be had.” Callum said with a slight smile. Thomas and Christian both chuckled.

“See here now, do not jest at my expense, Quintan.” Crawford said as he glared at Callum.

“Perish the thought, old friend, I only speak the truth.” Callum said. Mrs. Emery was feeling a bit more comfortable with those about her. She lifted her tea cup and sipped the heavy tea, which had a wonderful aroma to it.

“Well, I must say that I am most impressed with this tea they serve here. I have never had any better.” Mrs. Emery said, setting her cup down in its saucer.

“Indeed.” Christian said as he leaned a bit closer to her, “I believe that it’s Indian, from the Orient. I have had it several times in the past few days and I believe that it has also helped my healing.”

“Healing from what, Captain?” Mrs. Emery asked.

“An injury that was suffered recently in an altercation, dear lady.” Christian said.

“Oh? Was it serious?” She asked.

“It is of little consequence actually, hardly worth mentioning.” Christian said.

“Oh, for God’s sake, Christian, tell her the truth.” Thomas said. She looked back and forth between the two of them and Callum raised an eyebrow, “Truth be told, Mrs. Emery, our dear Captain faced a giant of a man recently and engaged him in combat. There were several others involved as well and our brave Captain of the Royal Marines suffered wounds from them that were very much life threatening. Had he not acted as he did, all of us might have been lost.”

“Good heavens, I had no idea.” She said and lifted her cup again, shifting her eyes about as she took them all in.

“He makes more of it than it really was, I assure you.” Christian said to her.

“Hardly that, Christian, remember I was there.” Callum said as he leaned into the back of his chair, one hand on the table.

“Yes, Quintan, but it was you that fell that giant of a man and took the other dozen odd or so on to cover our escape.” Christian said.

“That may be, but, you were the one that showed the greater bravery and survived.” Callum said as Mills came back to the table with a large tray. He set it down and started to place plates, serving the lady at the table first, the others followed one by one. Callum removed his hand and sat forward a bit watching as the fare was set out in front of them all. He smiled slightly at it, “I just realized that I have not eaten since night before last before I set off for home.”

“That was two nights ago then, Quintan.” Thomas said as he waited for everything to be set out and everyone served.

“Hmmm, was it? I must have forgotten.” Callum said.

“Along with other things.” Thomas said and drew a side glance from Callum.

“It certainly smells heavenly, Mr. Mills.” Callum said, “Once again your lovely wife has outdone herself.”

“Thank you, sir. I will be sure and tell her you said so, sir.” Mills said.

“Do that, my good man. I have thought that I might steal her away from you and have her cook for us aboard ship.” Callum smiled.

“I am afraid that I know how His Majesties Navy would feel about that, sir.” Mills said as Callum looked up at him with a smile.

“I know you do, my good man, but she is worth all the high praises, believe me.” Callum said.

“Thank you, sir. I would be lost without her as you know.” Mills said, he bowed slightly to the table, “I will just go and fetch your wine, sir.”

“Thank you.” Callum said and turned back to all at the table. He smiled slightly at the lady across the table from him. She picked up her fork and slowly started into her supper.

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“Your rooms will always be available for you and your gentlemen here, sir.” Mills said as Callum was with him at the long counter. Callum pulled out his leather purse from his inside vest pocket, opening it, and setting several notes on the counter.

“I hope that this is enough to cover our stay along with all the extras, Mr. Mills.” Callum said.

“More than enough, sir. You have been most generous to us, sir. We thank you very much.” Mills said.

“It is I that thank you, Mr. Mills, and for putting up with my group and all the troubles that we have brought here to your house with us.” Callum said.

“I have said before, sir, that it was no trouble. And may I also say that it has been more than an honor to have you stay here with us.” Mills said. His eyes were fighting back tears, “You have all come to mean so very much to us, a part of our family as it were.”

“Very gracious of you to say, Mr. Mills, it means more to me than you know.” Callum said and put out his hand. The older man took it in both of his and clasped it tight. Callum smiled warmly at him and put his free hand to the older man’s shoulder, “My very best to your wife.”

“Thank you, sir.” Mills said quietly as Callum took back his hand. Callum turned and went toward the door of the inn, stopping as Mrs. Emery was standing at the bottom of the stairs. Callum stopped in front of her and bowed his head slightly.

“I know that you will be comfortable here, Mrs. Emery, and I know they will take the best care of you as well, you have nothing to fear here.” Callum said.

“Thank you so very much, Admiral, for everything.”

“My pleasure, Madam.” Callum said bowing his head slightly, “I hope to see you again when I return from our duties in Bristol.” Callum said.

“I look forward to that.” She said.

“If you need anything other than what they can do for you here, you can go over on the next block to the Admiralty, use my name, and whatever you need will be done, you have my word.” Callum said.

“Most kind of you, Admiral.” She said and there was a tear in her eye at his words.

“Goodbye, Mrs. Emery.” Callum said, taking her hand, bowing his head and kissing the back of it.

“Goodbye.” She whispered as he turned and went toward the large door, opening it and going out, closing it behind him. Callum stepped out on the narrow walk and to the open carriage to where his companions waited for him. He climbed up and saw the driver from earlier in the day that had taken him to the Admiralty in such a great hurry. Callum nodded at him.

“I hope I haven’t kept you waiting long.” Callum said to all of them.

“It does seem as if it has been forever. Thankfully you’re here now.” Thomas said with a roll of his eyes. Callum ignored him and looked at the driver as he looked over his shoulder, seeing Callum in uniform and gave him a nod.

“I am glad that we have retained your services, my good man.” Callum said, “Do you know the docks in Portsmouth?”

“Indeed I do, sir.” The man said, “Hillary, sir, my name, Clive Hillary.”

“Well, Mr. Hillary, shall we be off? We are in no great hurry, as long as we are there before the dawn tide.” Callum said as he settled next to Thomas in the back bench seat, Christian and Crawford were opposite them, their backs to the driver.

“You will be, sir, that you will.” Hillary said. He turned back to look at the horses and snapped the whip in the air. The carriage set off.

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“So, what is your plan?” Thomas asked finally as the carriage rocked along the road. They were about halfway to Portsmouth. Callum looked over at his friend beside him, “I mean besides blowing this ship out of the water.”

“I have been giving that some thought, and what concerns me the most is if some of them escape destruction.” Callum said.

“I can handle that, Quintan.” Christian said as he leaned forward, putting one arm on his thigh. Callum looked at him, “There should be a full complement of Marines onboard Dover. I can land them with the boats if and when we determine that some are escaping. They should be easy enough to capture I would think.”

“What makes you think so? They might blend in with the populace.” Crawford asked as he leaned forward to join the conversation as well. Christian turned and looked at him and smirked.

“They would be soaking wet from swimming ashore, Doctor.” Christian said and Crawford rolled his eyes.

“I suppose they would.” Crawford said.

“Has all of this really been about money, Quintan?” Thomas asked. Callum looked at him and raised an eyebrow.

“As we are underway, I suppose I can tell you.” Callum said and lowered his voice. He looked at each of them and they drew closer, “Money is part of it, yes, a large part. I said it was millions of pounds, but it is far more than that actually. I have it on very good authority that it is actually millions of tons. More gold than could be carried in fifty ships.” He looked at all of them and they all seemed to be surprised at what he said, “But there is more to it. You must all swear to me that it will never be repeated what I am about to reveal to you.”

“I think you can trust us all, Quintan.” Thomas said softly. Callum pat his knee a couple of times.

“I know that I can, Thomas. But, if the general public were ever to find out about this, it might be disastrous for England. I cannot stress this enough.” Callum said.

“I think we understand the severity, Quintan.” Crawford said.

“Very well.” Callum said and leaned forward a bit more, “We all know that Phelps sailed to the Caribbean with his squadron without orders from the Admiralty. His instructions came directly from Upton to go there and to meet with Ramirez. The reason is to seize the fortune from Ramirez, but also to take over the island of Haiti, one of Ramirez’s bases of operations as well as to seize the port of Cartagena in South America, the stronghold, and to set up military governments in both places. Phelps is under instruction from Upton to set himself up as governor of the military territory and to stop and control all shipping in and out of the Caribbean.”

“With only five ships?” Thomas asked and Callum shook his head and then looked at him.

“No. Ramirez has a fleet of fifteen or more ships, those being what is left of the Spanish Gold Fleet as well as others captured during raids. Phelps is to take them all under his control, divide up his crews that are sailing with him, to use his own officers as command officers and to set up his own fleet.” Callum said.

“Under what flag?” Thomas asked.

“Not England’s.” Callum said, “You will recall that in the warehouse, in the crates there were those uniforms?”

“Yes, for the mercenary forces that were supposed to invade.” Thomas said.

“Exactly, but, there were also banners in them as well. Banners and flags. They were of Upton’s design. He was going to unite all of it, the Caribbean as well as the Continent under one flag, his. Phelps does not know that Upton has been taken and is still under the impression that everything is still going to plan.” Callum said.

“Well, this should be quite a shock to him then.” Thomas said.

“I am a bit confused about this, Quintan.” Crawford said, “How can Phelps gain that much power over all of these pirate crews and carry out this plan?” Crawford asked and Callum nodded.

“If he can get close enough to Ramirez, eliminate him, then he can offer a portion of the fortune that is stored to those men, all of them, and have plenty left over to possibly pay off even Napoleon to get him out of the way for Upton.” Callum said.

“Isn’t Ramirez paying them off anyway? I mean, they are pirates, aren’t they?” Thomas asked.

“Yes, they are, but Ramirez has a hold over them. What it is, I have no idea, nor does my source. I am certain that he pays them when they raid and plunder, but he has some other hold on them.” Callum said.

“How do you know this?” Christian asked. Callum looked at him.

“One of those that tried to murder Henry told me this before I snuffed him out. What he said was confirmed by someone else, someone that I met on the trip back to London, this source I spoke of.” Callum said.

“Who?” Thomas asked.

“His name is Durlam Foley.” Callum said.

“The Undersecretary?” Crawford asked and Callum looked at him.

“You know of him?” Callum asked.

“I know him, Quintan, very well in fact, have for years.” Crawford said.

“Can what he says be trusted?” Callum asked. Crawford nodded slowly.

“You can take it as gospel, Quintan. If there is one man in the government that can be believed it is him.” Crawford said in a very serious tone.

“I cannot imagine Phelps as a military governor.” Thomas said.

“Neither can I, but he has to be stopped. I need to go after him.” Callum said.

“You, why?” Thomas asked.

“I wasn’t going to. I was going to return home for good after we go to Bristol, but it was what I read in the letter from Emery that has changed my mind.” Callum said.

“What was in the letter?” Christian asked.

“A passage in Latin, ‘cavendum iis qui in tenebris sunt omnia’, is what he wrote.” Callum said almost in a whisper. Thomas looked confused.

“Beware those that come in the dark, for they take all.” Christian said. Callum met his eyes with his and nodded, “You know what he meant, don’t you?” Christian asked and Callum nodded again.

“I saved him once, at La Rochelle, and I need to do it for him again.” Callum whispered.

“Oh dear God.” Thomas said softly and closed his eyes, “This will be far worse than La Rochelle or going after the Avion, won’t it?”

“I’m afraid it will.” Callum said as he kept Christian’s gaze, “He’s a brother in arms, Thomas, a friend, and there are more that are with him that will need help and rescuing as well.”

“Count me in.” Christian said softly. Callum smiled briefly and nodded once.

“We will be against thousands, you know that.” Thomas said.

“I will not write Emery off.” Callum said.

“In for a penny I suppose.” Thomas said, “If you’re going to go off and get yourself killed, I had better come as well. I would not want to just sit at home with Dustin and his waiting and fretting.”

“I will take him along as well.” Callum said.

“What about Henry?” Thomas asked. Callum hung his head a bit.

“I don’t know.” Callum said.

“You’re exhausted, Quintan.” Crawford said as he put his hand on his friend’s shoulder, “As your doctor, I prescribe a bit of sleep to clear your mind. Let us handle this action in Bristol first, then you can decide what you need to do.” Crawford said and Callum lifted his head. He nodded, “The weight of the world on your shoulders, I know. I can see it in your eyes. Rest yourself for a bit. The sea air will have you back to normal soon enough.”

“You always know, don’t you, Arthur?” Callum asked with his tired eyes.

“I have for years, Quintan.” Crawford smiled patting Callum’s knee. They all settled back into their seats. Callum closed his eyes and started to dream as sleep took him. It was peaceful, Henry running across the pasture, skipping and hopping as he went in the tall grass in the full sun. Callum smiled as he eased watching the boy romp and play with his dog.

Callum woke as the carriage slowed at the end of the docks in Portsmouth. He rubbed his eyes and looked about in the darkness that surrounded them. The driver of the carriage tied the reins to the brake ring and climbed down. He opened the door on Callum’s side and nodded once to him, continuing to the back of the carriage to where the two trunks were tied down on the footboard to untie them and set them off.

“I don’t see anyone about.” Crawford said as he stood, Christian stood as well but grunted slightly with his wound, Crawford looked at him once, “I think that we need to get you somewhere to have you lie down, Christian.”

“It should pass, Doctor. It only aches from the drive.” Christian said as Thomas went out the other carriage door, stepping down on the sea side of the docks. He looked about and saw no one as well.

“She must be out in the mouth of the harbor at anchor, Quintan.” Thomas said without looking back at him. Callum looked about as well and nodded.

“Cary is probably checking her for leaks.” Callum said, “I had told Darin to make sure he had her ready for sailing.” Callum looked at Christian, seeing his face and his expression of pain, “Here, let me help you.”

“It is not necessary, Quintan.” Christian huffed out as he held his side with one hand.

“You can either argue with me or take your chances with Arthur.” Callum whispered to his ear, “You know what the outcome will be with him.”

“Alright, give me a hand if you will.” Christian whispered and kissed Callum on the cheek, “Thank you.” It made Callum smile as he stepped out of the carriage and held out his hands to help support Christian down to the stone.

“Don’t mention it.” Callum said in a hushed tone as Crawford stepped down next to Thomas on the other side.

“I don’t even see a boat tied off here.” Thomas said as he looked down at the water in the darkness, “Of course I couldn’t even see my own hand in front of my face in this dark.”

“Look, over there.” Christian said and looked down the way of the stone drive along the docks. All eyes turned and looked as they saw a lamp swinging out on the water. It was coming closer to them.

“Ahoy on the docks! We are Dover!” The voice called out in the darkness.

“Ahoy! Here we are! At the end of the docks!” Thomas called back, putting his good hand to his mouth to cup it.

“Standby!” The voice called back. Thomas looked over at Callum and nodded.

“I wonder who it is?” Thomas asked.

“It sounded like Greene for a moment.” Callum said.

“Yes, it did.” Thomas said and was excited in his tone. He stepped away from the carriage to the stone steps that led down to the water. He could see the longboat now, eight men at the oars, one at the tiller that was standing, all in their striped shirts and Keesan hats as they pulled through the water.

“Ship oars!” The voice in the dark ordered. Oars were lifted and the longboat came gliding to the stone steps. One of the boatmen jumped out with a rope and landed on the bottom step, “Tie her off.” The voice said. He waited a moment and stepped out, going up the steps and saw the figure in the dark before him. He narrowed his eyes to see better, “Captain Tomlin, sir. We were expecting,…” Greene, the Boson said and tipped his hand toward Thomas.

“I suppose I will have to do for the time being, Greene.” Thomas said. Crawford came up next to Thomas.

“Dr. Crawford, sir.” Greene said and tipped his hand again.

“Where is my ship, Greene?” Thomas asked.

“At the mouth of the harbor, sir. Mr. Sommers ordered her to be taken out to check for leaks, sir. He was told that Captain Callum was coming, sir, to take command of her, sir.” Greene said.

“I am sorry to disappoint you, Mr. Greene, but I am in command of Dover for the time being.” Thomas said.

“Of course, sir. No disrespect intended, sir.” Greene said and tipped his hand. Thomas looked over his shoulder and grinned as Callum and Christian came up behind him. Callum stepped around Thomas and looked down at the older man.

“If it would not be too much trouble, could you have some of your men take our trunks and load them into the longboat, Captain Tomlin?” Callum asked.

“Of course, Admiral, right away.” Thomas said, and tipped his hand to Callum, looking back down at Greene, “Well? You heard the Admiral, Greene, have these trunks loaded.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Greene was grinning from ear to ear as he tipped his hand again seeing Callum, “Admiral Callum is it now?” Greene asked himself but aloud as he was pure excitement that was oozing from every pore.

“Don’t lose yourself, Mr. Greene, carry out your orders if you please.” Thomas said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Greene said, turning on the step, “You men, look alive, you heard the Captain. Get these trunks loaded aboard the boat.”

“You have quite an efficient crew, Captain Tomlin, my compliments.” Callum said as the men filed up past them on the steps, all of them smiling wide tipping their hands.

“I thank you, Admiral Callum, I know how much you enjoy seeing the men do their work efficiently.” Thomas said with a smirk as they stood side by side with one another.

“Indeed I do.” Callum said as he watched as the men filed back by them carrying the two trunks down the stone steps, “I will join you in a moment, Captain, I must see about our driver first.”

“As you say, Admiral.” Thomas said and tipped his hand to the back of Callum. Callum walked over to the driver and pulled out his purse, opening it and giving him a few notes. The driver, Hillary, argued that it was too much. Callum put him at ease very quickly, shook his hand and rejoined his group at the top of the steps.

“We are about ready to get underway, Admiral.” Thomas said.

“Very good, Captain.”

“Will you take the place of honor, Admiral, at the tiller?” Thomas asked as they came down the steps to the boat. Thomas stopped at the edge of the longboat and held out a hand to guide Callum. There was enough lamp light to have all see that were watching this cordial interaction between these two.

“For God’s sake, Thomas, get into the damned boat, will you?” Callum asked with a roll of his eyes.

“Why, yes of course, Admiral.” Thomas said and stepped over the gunwale into the boat. Callum watched as Thomas moved to the bow of the boat as Christian and Crawford stepped up next to Callum. Thomas was using his hand to steady himself on the men’s shoulders as he moved forward.

“I know you wanted to toss his ass into the water.” Christian whispered at Callum’s ear.

“I still might, the night is young.” Callum whispered back and Christian chuckled softly.

“Just make certain that I am there to see it.” Christian whispered and stepped by Callum, getting into the boat. Crawford came up and did the same, going to the center and sat next to one of the boatmen.

“Shall we be underway, Admiral?” Crawford asked.

“Certainly, Doctor.” Callum said and stepped into the boat, “Mr. Greene, if you please.”
“Aye, aye, sir.” Greene said and untied the rope from the ring of the step, stepping into the boat himself as he kicked off the stern from the step, “Oars, at the ready?” Greene called out. He looked in the limited light and saw the oars had all been lifted, “Set oars.” Greene said and the oars were dropped into the water and the boatmen began to pull with them. Greene set the tiller about and swung the longboat heading out into the harbor as Callum sat next to him. Greene leaned over to Callum, “It is so good to have you with us, sir.” Greene whispered. Callum leaned to him as well.

“Thank you.” Callum said, “How is she?” Callum asked after a brief pause, dragging out the question.

“She is as good as new, sir, truly a beauty to behold.” Greene whispered, “It is just a shame, sir, that you have arrived in the dark to not be able to see her fully. Her paint sets her off, sir, and her rails have all been polished and oiled. New lines have been run throughout her rigging, everything is new, sir.”

“I have no doubt that she is quite the sight.” Callum whispered back at Greene.

“The only thing that has not been replaced, sir, is her doubled canvas.” Greene said.

“Makes her fly faster.” Callum whispered to himself mostly as he looked out into the darkness, folding his arms over his chest and crossing his long stretched out legs.

“Indeed it does, sir.” Greene said and grinned wide, “Captain Powers was a very wise and sage sailor, sir, if I may be so bold. I remember when that canvas was first brought onboard, sir.”

“As do I.” Callum whispered as the memory of it took hold, that day spent in dry dock after Cadiz and the mission there, “You’re right, Greene, he was a very sage sailor, wasn’t he?”

“As sage as you are, sir.” Greene said with affection in his voice, “No one has been able to handle her like you do, sir, not even Captain Powers.”

“The highest praise indeed, thank you, Greene.” Callum whispered, “But I think that Captain Tomlin has learned it as well.”

“He could stand to learn a bit more, sir, beggin’ your pardon, sir.” Greene said and it brought a smile to Callum’s face.

“Well, perhaps a good dunking might also be in line with that.” Callum chuckled softly and Greene snorted and looked down.

“I’d give a sailings wages, sir, to see that.”

“And you might before this night is through.” Callum whispered directly into Greene’s ear. Greene chuckled openly and then cleared his throat as his Captain at the bow turned his head and looked over his shoulder.

“Something funny, Mr. Greene?” Thomas asked and the older man looked wide eyed at him.

“I was just relating a jest to our Mr. Greene here, Captain.” Callum said and put an end to it.

“I see. As you please, Admiral.”

“Thank you, Captain.” Callum said raising an eyebrow clearly visible from the bow where Thomas was in the lamplight. Thomas turned back and looked ahead in the darkness.

“Greene, two points to port.” Thomas called back to the stern, “I see Dover’s lights in the distance.”

“Aye, aye, sir, two points.” Greene said and moved the tiller a bit, “Two points, sir.”

“Very well.” Thomas said still watching ahead.

“I, I mean we, sir, had no idea that you had been promoted, sir.” Greene whispered.

“They say it will be announced in the Sunday Times this week. I put little stock in it as you know.” Callum whispered and seemed irritated.

“Well, congratulations all the same, sir. There is no one more deserving of it, sir.” Greene said in a whisper.

“Again, high praise, thank you, Greene.” Callum whispered and Greene nodded with a tip of his hand.

“There she is.” Thomas said out loud and pointed. Callum raised up a bit and unfolded his arms, putting his hands on the bench. All he could see were a few points of light, obviously lanterns lit and strewn about her riggings. Callum’s heart beat a bit faster now as they drew closer. This ship, his ship, his true home, the one he had always known seemed to be calling out to him. He strained his eyes in the darkness to try and catch her lines. He looked up and there were a few clouds in the sky blocking the moon and some of the stars. The men, the boatmen, were pulling with their rhythm, deep stroking the water with the oars and the longboat glided along. They were some three hundred yards off her port bow now, Callum guessed, “Oh my,…have a look at that.” Thomas said.

The clouds parted letting light in through them and shone down upon the beautiful lady that waited in the water for her men to return to her, to make her complete. Dover, in her full glory, shone like a jewel in that soft light, a true gem upon the sea. Callum caught sight of her and it took his breath. He saw Thomas look over his shoulder back at him, and then back to face forward as she grew ever closer and larger to them.

She was like a lover that would embrace each and every one of them, or even more than that, a mother to them all, nurturing and caring for them, all of her sons that called Dover their home. The feeling of the sight of her overwhelmed Callum and his eyes misted as he saw her lines, her luff lines that he knew so well, all of her points, her strengths, as well as her weak spots. He loved them all equally, but mostly he loved her as a whole, the mother that carried him to distant shores and always returned him safe and sound back to port here in Portsmouth.

Two hundred yards now as the men rowed the longboat and Callum’s heart swelled even more with seeing her in the limited light. He made out several of the men walking her deck along the railing. She rose and fell slightly in the swell that she was anchored in. The longboat was now rising and falling in the same swell as their approach closed the gap. Callum watched as she grew in size with each stroke of the oars, his heart nearing to bursting. He caught her smell in the wind, the smell of aged oak and canvas and it filled him, all of his senses as he closed his eyes. He took in another deep breath of her and let it out slowly. Less than one hundred fifty yards now to her.

“Give them a hail, if you please, Mr. Greene.” Callum whispered. Green raised a hand to his mouth, cupping it.

“Ahoy, Dover! Captain’s gig coming alongside!” Greene called out. Callum and Greene watched as men snapped about, setting lines at the ready to toss over the side to secure and receive the longboat.

“Ahoy!” Someone from the deck called back, “Stand by to take our lines!”

Callum heard the Boson’s pipe signaling and the ship’s bell ringing three times, in groups of threes. He knew that the side was now being manned by all hands that were on deck that were on duty along with the officer on watch.

The men continued the rowing and the pace was slowed by the tide surging in from open water. It seemed to take forever to Callum but it was actually only a few short minutes. Dover and her port side loomed up as they came alongside her.

“Ship oars!” Greene called out and the oars were lifted. Greene turned the tiller and the longboat came gliding in. Hands reached out and grasped to lines and wood to steady the longboat into position. Lines were tossed down from the deck above them and caught. They were secured both fore and aft on the boat. The men went up as was custom to join the ship’s company that stood at the side waiting, all at attention. Thomas went up as the Boson’s pipe piped out, ‘Captain coming aboard.’ Thomas stepped onto the deck of his ship and was received in the standard manner, all hands and the officer present tipping their hands to him. As was also custom, Thomas was to go directly below to the Great Cabin without saying a word. He could return to the deck if he chose or to summon to the Great Cabin, the officer of the watch. Thomas followed custom and slowly walked through the assemblage and went below.

Crawford went up after Thomas and was greeted warmly by those on deck, none of them touching or taking hands, but all nodded and smiled at having him aboard. Christian followed Crawford and had a difficult time of it but made it up and through the gunwale. Crawford helped Christian and guided him below to have him rest a bit. Callum came up the side as he had done so many times over his years aboard her. He stepped up through the gunwale and all hands tipped their hands and held them at their foreheads to him. Callum nodded and smiled out of the corner of his mouth at them all as the men had formed two lines that led to amidships. Callum walked along, his hands behind his back as he went, looking at each and every one of them as he passed them. There were some smiles that were difficult to hide and Callum smirked slightly at them. Greene came up and through the gunwale, coming up behind Callum.

“Beg pardon, Admiral.” Greene said loud and clear. Callum turned and looked at him, his hands still behind his back, clasped together, “Shall I have the boat raised, sir?”

“Yes, and see to our trunks if you please, Mr. Greene.” Callum said. The men were wide eyed at hearing the title Admiral used. Callum shifted his eyes about as he looked at most of them. They all knew now. Greene tipped his hand and turned back toward the men.

“Alright, you heard the Admiral, secure the boat and raise her!” Greene said loudly. All hands jumped to it quickly. The officer of the watch came over and tipped his hand to Callum. Callum looked at him and smiled.

“Mr. Middleboro, I am very pleased to see you.” Callum said. The young man was more than thrilled to see Callum standing there before him.

“Then it’s true, sir, you have been promoted.” Isaac Middleboro said, his young eyes were dancing in the lamplight as the lamps swung about with the swell from their hangings in the rigging.

“Indeed.” Callum said.

“A pleasure to have you onboard, sir.” Middleboro said and tipped his hand again.

“Actually, the pleasure is all mine.” Callum said. He could hear the lines being pulled to raise the longboat, the block and tackle used were squeaking as the ropes traveled through them, “I will join your Captain in the Great Cabin. A pleasant evening to you, Mr. Middleboro.” Callum said.

“As you wish, sir, and thank you, sir.” Middleboro said as he tipped his hand again as Callum turned away and went to the doors that led below, going past the galley, looking in and almost expecting to see Carson there, but he was not, only Shem, the dark steward to Thomas. Callum nodded to him as they met eyes. Callum proceeded on and came to the doors of the Great Cabin, which were open. Callum knocked on one and Thomas stepped into view. He rolled his eyes at Callum and threw up his hand. Callum stepped inside.

“What has you troubled, Captain?” Callum asked softly.

“How in the hell am I going to do this?” Thomas asked.

“Do what?” Callum asked.

“It is very difficult to be in command with you on board, you must know that.” Thomas said. Callum raised an eyebrow at him.

“What do you mean?” Callum asked.

“I mean, after everything, all that we have been through together, all of it, you are so much my friend rather than just a superior officer.” Thomas said with a bit of frustration in his voice.

“I understand that, Thomas. What is really bothering you?” Callum asked as he folded his arms over his chest.

“You are here, aboard her.” Thomas said and emphasized the last word.

“She is your ship, Captain.” Callum said almost sternly.

“No, she is not.” Thomas said and shook his head as he stepped forward toward Callum, “She is your ship, Quintan, and she always will be. Did you not see what happened when we approached her?”

“I’m not sure what you mean.” Callum said as he narrowed his eyes.

“The clouds, they parted for you so you could see her. Heaven itself knows that you belong to this ship as much as she knows that you belong to her.” Thomas said and he stepped in front of Callum. Still with narrowed eyes, Callum pursed his lips a bit, those words would now be burned into Callum’s memory for the rest of his life.

“Are you trying to tell me that it was by divine intervention that the clouds parted? That God himself wants me aboard this ship?” Callum asked and Thomas gave him a puzzled look, “You think me a Jonah, don’t you?”

“I would never think that, Quintan.” Thomas said and was almost aghast at what he said.

“Then what do you think?” Callum asked.

“There is a purpose here, something is happening right now and I for one do not understand it, not fully.” Thomas said, “You should command this mission to Bristol, Quintan.”

“She is your ship, Thomas. I will not take command from you simply from having this rank. You said it yourself, I can take command of the action when we reach Bristol, and that will be good enough for me.” Callum said and eased back a bit, “Now, Captain, you should find out about the status of your ship and crew before the dawn tide.”

“As you say, sir.” Thomas said softly.

“And the next time you mention something like this to me, I will carry out my threat.” Callum said and Thomas raised an eyebrow.

“And what threat is that?”

“Something that I wanted to do on the dock, something that Christian also noticed and said.” Callum said and smirked, “Toss your ass into the water.” Thomas chuckled and shook his head as hung it a bit.

“I guess I did play it up a bit much, didn’t I?” Thomas asked as he raised his eyes to meet Callum’s.

“Enough to almost sicken me.” Callum smirked. He elbowed Thomas in the ribs a bit as he turned away.

“How shall we do this?” Thomas asked. Callum turned back to look at him.

“You are the Captain of this ship, Thomas. Your word is final in all things. Do not look to me to second guess or to change your orders at all. We are friends, good and close friends, nothing is going to change that at all either. Just get me to Bristol so I can destroy those bastards.”

“As you wish, Admiral.” Thomas said with a raise of his eyebrows. Callum grabbed his good arm gently.

“I mean what I say, Thomas. I will not have the men look to me after you have given an order to make certain it is correct. This is your ship. You know how to command it and them. Be the Captain that I know that you are, Thomas. Forget I am onboard.” Callum said.

“Then I would suggest that you stay out of sight until we reach Bristol. You know how much they love you, Quintan, and far more than that, how much they respect you.” Thomas said, “You are larger than life to them. I could never be that.” His voice was soft and the words echoed in Callum’s ear. They were both in complete agreement of this.

“I will stay below and out of sight. Just promise me that you will have some practice at the guns while on the way.” Callum said with a feigned smile.

“Of course. I want to make sure that they remember what it is that you taught them. I will take no chances with being outgunned by your pirate ship, especially since she is a ninety-four.” Thomas said with a flash of his eyes. There was a knock at the open door. Thomas looked around Callum, “Yes?” Thomas asked.

“Am I interrupting?” Crawford asked.

“No, not at all.” Thomas said, looked away from both of them, turning to head to the stern windows.

“I have Christian resting in the Ward Room. I don’t like his color.” Crawford said and Thomas turned back and looked at him with deep concern all over his face.

“Will he be alright?” Thomas asked.

“I may have been wrong to think he was well enough.” Crawford said, “There is no bleeding that I can see, but that does not tell me about what is going on in the inside.”

“What do you want to do?” Thomas asked. Callum folded his arms over his chest and waited.

“I wanted to inform you, Captain, of the situation. After he rests for a bit, there may be a change. I just don’t know at this time.” Crawford said.

“Thank you, Doctor.” Thomas said, his own voice of authority, standing straight. He eased himself now that the formality of the report was over, “What do you really think?” Thomas asked and saw the look of worry on the older face, “Doctor?”

“Perhaps we should have left him in London to rest another week or more.” Crawford said and it frightened Thomas with his words. Callum dropped his arms seeing his friend’s look on his face.

“Just a moment, if I may, Captain.” Callum said softly holding up a hand. Thomas stopped his step toward Crawford. Callum lowered his hand and looked at his older friend, “If he were to stay where he is right now while we continue on, will he be alright, Arthur?” Callum asked.

“He should be, if he stays off his feet as he is.” Crawford said. Callum nodded once and then lowered his head a bit.

“Then I would suggest, Captain, that Captain Holt does not carry out his plan that was suggested on our way here. The Captain of the Marines aboard should be informed of what we are planning.” Callum said in a low voice.

“You are quite right, Admiral, of course.” Thomas said after he paused a long moment, “Thank you, Doctor, for telling me.” Thomas said and Crawford bowed his head slightly. Thomas thought for a minute. Callum gave him side glances every now and then and waited himself. He wanted to make certain that Thomas was going to follow what they had both laid down minutes ago. Thomas stepped forward next to Crawford and stopped just inside the doorway of the Great Cabin, “Shem!” Thomas called out. He turned back and looked at Callum, who did not meet his gaze. The dark steward came to the door.

“Sir?” Shem asked in his rich voice.

“Pass the word for the officer of the watch, if you please.” Thomas said and Shem nodded and left. Thomas knew he had only a couple of minutes left to him before protocol continued and there was no turning back, “You still wish to sail on the dawn tide, Admiral?” Thomas asked and Callum looked at him and nodded his silent reply. There was a knock on the open door behind Thomas.

“Sir?” Mr. Middleboro asked. Thomas knew the voice very well and didn’t have to turn around.

“I will need ship’s status if you please, Mr. Middleboro.” Thomas said, his tone unmistakable, that of the ship’s Captain.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Middleboro said and tipped his hand, “I’ll summon Mr. Sommers for you, sir.”

“Thank you.” Thomas said. Middleboro left and headed down the companionway to Sommer’s tiny cabin. Callum looked at Thomas out of the corner of his eye as Shem came back to the door and waited, “May I get you something, Admiral?” Thomas asked.

“I think it will be a rather long night, Captain, perhaps some coffee?” Callum asked. Thomas turned and looked at Shem.

“Bring us the pot.” Thomas said and Shem nodded his reply, going out of sight. Thomas turned back toward Callum, holding out his good hand to have them join him at the long table in the middle of the room. Callum went to one side chair and pulled it back, Crawford came to the other side as Thomas pulled out the end chair, sitting down first, the others sat down after. Thomas was thinking as there was a knock on the open doorway. Thomas looked over, “Mr. Sommers, come in.”

Cary Sommers had served aboard Dover as a 2nd Lieutenant as long as Thomas had served. They had been good friends for all that time, Sommers stepped in, his hat under his arm, his red hair long and tied back in a tail, his pale skin looked even more so as he saw Callum sitting on the other side of the table. He loved Callum, respected him deeply, but also feared him for what he was capable of. They had shared a few missions together and Sommers was always in awe of him and his abilities. Sommers came to the edge of the table and stood rigid.

“I require ship’s status, Mr. Sommers.” Thomas said and looked up at him.

“Sir, we have been provisioned for two months sailing after release from dry dock. All repairs have been made, lines have been replaced, and canvas has been rehung. We are currently fourteen hands shy of full ships complement, sir.” Sommers said as he looked straight ahead without flinching or diverting his eyes once.

“Are any of those officers?” Thomas asked.

“Yes, sir. Two of them are, sir.”

“So, a dozen hands left and lost.” Thomas said.

“Yes, sir.” Sommers said, “I put out to the mouth of the harbor after Lt. Talon came aboard, sir, to check for leaks. Mr. Camden reports that there is about 2 inches in the bilge, sir, and not gaining. We seem to be at the ready, sir, for sailing.”

“I will be the judge of that.” Thomas said in a low voice and Sommers stiffened even more. Shem came in and set down a tray contain a pot and cups. He nodded and turned away.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said blinking only once. Thomas stood up from his chair.

“Tell me, Mr. Sommers, these two officers that we are missing, who are they?” Thomas asked.

“Lt. Collingwood and Lt. Dorland, sir.” Sommers said.

“I can understand about Lt. Collingwood, as he is dead, which you know, but where is Lt. Dorland? And why is he not aboard?” Thomas asked. Sommers was a bit wide eyed but tried to keep it under control.

“I am sorry, sir, but I am not quite certain,…” Sommers stammered a bit.

“You are or have been in temporary command, have you not?” Thomas asked.

“Yes, sir.” Sommers asked.

“Then as 1st Lieutenant of Dover, you should know where all of her officers are at all times, especially when recalled to service as we are now.” Thomas said. Sommers shifted his eyes about and side glanced Thomas just briefly.

“1st Lieutenant, sir?” Sommers asked shyly. Thomas smiled and looked at Callum once and then back to the young man standing there.

“Yes, 1st Lieutenant.” Thomas said and smiled. He reached out his left hand, his good hand, in Sommers direction, “I formally ask you, Cary, if you will assume the duties as my 1st.” Thomas asked and Sommers turned his head and looked at him, his mouth opening, “I can think of no one else that I would like to have at my side.” Thomas said and smiled slightly. Sommers took his hand in his.

“Of course, sir, it would be my honor.” Sommers said.

“The honor would be mine.” Thomas said as Sommers clasped his hand with the other.

“I was afraid you wouldn’t ask, sir.” Sommers said as Callum and Crawford rose to their feet as well.

“So, 1st Lieutenant, where is Mr. Dorland?” Thomas asked.

“I honestly do not know, sir, I apologize. Shall I,…” Sommers asked but as Thomas took his hand back he raised it to stop him.

“We will do without him.” Thomas said, “May I present Admiral Callum and Dr. Crawford, both of whom I believe you know.”

“Yes, sir.” Sommers said and looked across the table at Callum, “Congratulations, sir.” Sommers said with a nod. Callum stretched out his hand.

“None are needed, Mr. Sommers, on my account. However, may I offer my congratulations to you?” Callum asked as Sommers took the hand of the man that he respected so very much.

“Thank you, sir.” Sommers said and Calum let go of the hand he held. Crawford took it now and pat the back of the young man.

“Congratulations, Cary.” Crawford said.

“Thank you, sir.” Sommers said to the older man.

“I remember when I was made 1st Lieutenant by Captain Powers.” Callum said.

“It was very somber as I recall.” Thomas said.

“Yes, it was, wasn’t it?” Callum asked, “He had no choice after Farrow left.” Callum said softly.

“There is always a choice.” Thomas said and then lifted his eyes to meet Callum’s, “Something you have always tried to tell me but I didn’t listen, until now.” Thomas said and looked at his young officer, “We will be sailing with the dawn tide, and once we clear the shoals and the Isle of Wight, we shall beat to quarters and have some practice with the guns.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said firmly with a smile, “Our course, sir?”

“West.” Thomas said, “We are going to Bristol.”

“Bristol, sir?” Sommers asked.

“I will have the Admiral explain it in the morning. See to your duties.” Thomas said nodding toward Callum and then looked back at Sommers.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said and tipped his hand. He turned and went out of the cabin. Callum sat back down in his chair at the table. He reached for a cup and the pot as well.

“Nicely done, Thomas.” Callum said as he poured for himself. He set the pot down and settled back into the chair.

“Thank you, Quintan.” Thomas said softly.

“Well, I think I will check on our Captain of the Marines and then turn in for the night.” Crawford said, “Good night, gentlemen.”

“Good night, Arthur.” Callum said as he lifted his cup.

“Good night, Doctor.” Thomas said as Crawford walked out of the cabin. Thomas turned and looked at Callum.

“You did say she was a ninety-six, didn’t you?” Thomas asked. Callum looked at him from over his cup.

“I did.” Callum said.

“Are you certain?” Thomas asked. Callum only nodded, “Well that changes things a bit.”

“How so?” Callum asked and sipped more coffee.

“She outguns us three to one, Quintan.” Thomas said. Callum set his cup down. He pursed his lips together a minute as he looked at his friend.

“Do not let that stop us, Thomas. We have the element of surprise in this. They don’t know we are coming.”

“We sail on the dawn tide, Quintan, that puts us there in the afternoon. They will see us coming from miles off.” Thomas said.

“You are having second thoughts over this I can see.” Callum said, leaning forward a bit, one arm on the table, “Let me put you at ease, Captain.” Callum said, his voice was firm sounding and Thomas was a bit more on edge with hearing it, “That pirate has no idea that we are coming and will be unprepared for us. I would suggest that we sail into the harbor under no flag and then raise it when we strike. Keep your gunports closed until we are upon her and then we strike, going at her at the waterline. We can give her two full broadsides to her one, if she even gets a chance to reply. The crew already knows how to reload rapidly, but if we have a practice at it while underway, then we can make certain of their abilities. I would also have the buckets of coal oil at the ready to give them hellfire if necessary.”

“You mean to utterly destroy them, don’t you?” Thomas asked and Callum just stared at him.

“I will not have a single one of them left alive after this begins.”

“You think they are that dangerous?” Thomas asked.

“Let me put it to you this way, Thomas.” Callum said, his voice still had that tone, “If you were at Harbroughs, in your bed in the dead of night, and suddenly you awoke as there were a half dozen of them with heavy blades at your throat, would not be your first thought, for just a moment before they slit your throat have been, we should have ended them when we had the chance?”

“I see what you mean.” Thomas said as he thought about it a moment, “You think the same for Henry, don’t you?”

“Henry? Yes, I do.” Callum said, “But I also think of our dear Martha and what they would do to her if they caught her in her sleep. It chills me to the very bone. They would show no mercy at all even if she is a woman. They are cutthroats, murderers, and care not of who stands in their way. No, Thomas, I want this ended once and for all. You did not see our dear Owen and his struggle against the five of them as I arrived just in time. They left him beaten and bloodied.”

“You did not say that before.” Thomas said.

“I am now.” Callum said, he sat back and folded his arms over his chest, “Our community, our friends and family are all going to die for certain if we do not act to end this, Thomas.”

“Then it will be done, Quintan.” Thomas said. His voice was deep and had anger in it thinking about those that he cared about and had come to love as if they were his family as well, as actually they were now, his and Christian’s.

“Good.” Callum said flatly and stared at his friend.

“I am a bit concerned however.” Thomas said and looked hesitant all of a sudden.

“Speak what is on your mind, Thomas, there is little time to hold anything back now.”

“We fire upon a ship within our own waters, anchored and unaware of our coming. How are we going,…?” Thomas asked.

“I have full support from the Admiralty, Thomas, as well as from the office that oversees them and their actions. I assure you, there will be nothing said and if there is, it will not reflect upon you at all. I will take full responsibility for this action.” Callum said and Thomas went wide eyed over it.

“Once again, they are using you, and you’re going to let them?” Thomas asked. Callum nodded.

“I am.” He said flatly, “I have nothing to lose in this, Thomas, but everything to gain. The security of my son for one and also knowing that Ramirez has been dealt a blow, a blow that he may not recover from in losing yet another ship and its crew even if they are like sands on the beach and easily replaced.” Callum said and lowered his arms, he picked up the pot from the table and poured more coffee into his cup, “Once this deed is done, we will sail Dover back to Portsmouth, dock her, and I will report back to the Admiralty to give a full accounting of everything.”

“Dear God.” Thomas whispered. Callum cocked his head slightly as he set the pot down.

“I have not gone mad, Thomas. On the contrary, I am angered, and that anger is driving me.” Callum said and looked past Thomas toward the doors of the Great Cabin. Shem was there, holding canvas over one arm, a large bundle of it. Callum nodded in his direction and Thomas turned to see him as well.

“What is it, Shem?” Thomas asked.

“A haversack, sir, for either of ye to use for the night.” The dark man said as he came into the cabin.

“Thoughtful,” Callum said with a smirk, “as the bunk is a bit small for the two of us.” Callum eyeballed Thomas for a moment and then back at Shem, “You can hang it if you will.” Callum said and did not move as Shem came around his Captain, Thomas Tomlin, and set about hanging the rings from hooks in the beams above their heads. Shem stretched it out a bit behind Callum, but there was a deep sway in it.

“Will ye be needing a blanket or two, sir?” Shem asked.

“It seems to be a pleasant evening and warm enough for now, Shem, I don’t think so.” Thomas said. The dark man nodded as he finished hanging the haversack. He stepped back around Thomas and went for the doors, “Thank you, Shem.”

“Ye are welcome, sir.” Shem said, and as his usual, was not very talkative. He bowed his head slightly and left the cabin.

“Perhaps you should turn in for the night, Thomas. The dawn will be upon us sooner than you think.” Callum said.

“You’re right, of course.” Thomas said, “Will you be alright?”

“Yes, I will be fine right here.” Callum said, “Do not worry. Sleep easy.”

“You should sleep as well, Quintan.” Thomas said, “Perhaps you should take the bunk and I the haversack.”

“No. You are the Captain of this ship, Thomas, and that bunk is yours. Go to bed,” Callum said and then smiled, “that’s an order.”

“As you wish, Admiral.” Thomas said and then smirked a bit. He went into the small berth. Callum could see part of him undressing, but not all of him. He turned back to his coffee on the table before him.

The lamplight in the Great Cabin had dimmed as the lamps were running out of oil in them. Callum still sat at the long table as the ships bell rang out three times, in groups of three and then rang four times with a pause between each bell. Callum now knew the time. It brought him out of his thoughts. He had been awake for a few hours now. The coffee pot was empty and he knew it but lifted it all the same and tried to pour into his cup. There were only drops and grounds. He set the pot down and sighed heavily as he sat back into his chair. There was a soft rap at the door.

“Enter.” Callum said quietly. The door opened and there stood Darin Talon. He nodded toward Callum once and Callum smiled briefly at him and lifted his chin.

“The dawn tide is starting to turn, sir.” Darin said softly not seeing Thomas about anywhere.

“Perhaps you should tell Captain Tomlin that, Darin.” Callum said and pointed one finger toward the berth.

“Shall I wake him, sir?” Darin asked softly.

“Look to him to find your orders, Darin. He is the Captain of this ship, not me.” Callum said softly.

“Of course, sir.” Darin said and gave a slight nod. He closed the door behind him and went to the door of the berth looking in. He stepped forward next to the bunk. Callum could hear every word that was spoken. Darin trying to wake Thomas gently, “Captain Tomlin, sir, Captain Tomlin?”

“What is it?” Thomas asked with a croaked voice.

“The dawn tide, sir, it is here.”

“Already?” Thomas asked in his sleepy voice and gave a groan, “Very well, Darin, call the watch.” Thomas groaned again and sat up in the bunk, “I will be up presently.”

“Very good, sir.” Darin said, tipping his hand in the darkened berth. He turned and came out and bowed his head slightly toward Callum at the table. Callum returned the nod and smiled softly at his young friend. Talon left the Great Cabin closing the door quietly. Callum shifted his eyes as he heard the thumping and banging about in the berth and chuckled slightly.

“Need any help in there?” Callum asked.

“You would be the last person I would ask.” Thomas said and groaned again as he rose to his feet, “My God, this is the most uncomfortable death trap I have ever slept in.” Thomas said as he came to doorway, “How on earth did you ever find it to be able to sleep in it?”

“I had no trouble with it when I used it. However, as you will recall, I spent most of my time in there recuperating from my wounds.” Callum said as Thomas came to the table, dropping his boots to the floor.

“Yes, I remember.” Thomas said as he pulled a chair out and dropped in it with a thud. A single blonde lock was hanging down in front of his eye.

“How is your arm?” Callum asked. Thomas groaned again thinking about it.

“Have you been up all night?” Thomas asked.

“Most of it.” Callum said, “I apologize for not having any coffee to offer you.” Thomas looked at the pot and then scowled at Callum, who was smirking slightly.

“I will see to it that you are resupplied, Admiral.” Thomas said and sat back in the chair, tilting his head, “Shem!” Thomas shouted and turned to focus on his boots, lifting one and putting it on with some difficulty.

“You called, sir?” Shem asked as he opened the door.

“The Admiral’s coffee is empty, Shem. See to it if you will.” Thomas said as he continued to struggle with his boot as he bent over. Callum raised his eyes a bit as Shem closed the door, Callum to see over the table at the struggle on the other side.

“Might I be of assistance?” Callum asked. Thomas sat up with a reddened face. Callum chuckled and shook his head as he rose up from the table. He came around the table to his friend and knelt before him on one knee, taking the boot from Thomas’ good hand, “You are the most obstinate person I know, Thomas.” Callum helped guide Thomas’ foot into the tall boot.

“If you think I’m bad, you should try Christian, he is far worse than I.”

“I doubt that very seriously. I have spent too many years in your company, Thomas, and know you and all of your quirks.”

“Yes, ha, ha.” Thomas said snidely as he pushed his foot into the boot as Callum picked up the other, “You should try this with one hand.”

“I would think it would not matter if you had the use of both. You would struggle all the same.” Callum said as he rose to his feet.

“You certainly are a whit this morning.” Thomas said as he looked up at Callum, “Perhaps I should have a word with Dustin when we return home. He may be able to curb your tongue.”

Calum smiled down at his friend and put a hand on his shoulder, patting it gently, “You know how far that will go.”

“Perhaps you’re right, what was I thinking?” Thomas asked as he flared his eyes and snorted slightly. He pushed back the lock of hair out of his eyes and stood as the door opened. Shem entered with another pot and set it on the table, giving Callum a nod and a brief glance. He produced another cup and set at the place Tomlin had risen from. Shem took the empty pot from the table.

“Thank you, Shem.” Callum said, going around the table back to his original place.

“Would ye be carin’ for breakfast?” Shem asked with his deep voice.

“Not for me, thank you.” Callum said.

“I will have it later after we are underway and the sun is up.” Thomas said. Shem nodded once and left the cabin. Callum was pouring coffee for himself and for Thomas.

“Perhaps this brew will help you face the morning and give you a better mood.” Callum said as he set the pot down.

“The only thing that will better my mood is to be returning from this in one piece.” Thomas said as he picked up his cup.

“You have your doubts again.” Callum said as he took his cup and lifted it.

“Let’s just say that I slept on it and my dreams were filled with every possible thing that could go wrong with this plan.” Thomas said as he looked at Callum, “Yes, I have a bad feeling about this.”

“We should trust in our abilities, Thomas, and those of the crew.” Callum said and took a sip, “We will do well.”

“Plus if we sink her, there is no prize.” Thomas said, “The crew will be a tad bit upset over that.”

“She’s not a prize ship anyway. She is not an enemy vessel.” Callum said. Thomas set his cup down.

“I beg to differ, she is an enemy vessel. Any pirate is, you know that.” Thomas said.

“Alright, what would have me do?” Callum asked, “What are you thinking?”

“How many ships might she have encountered between the Caribbean and here? How many might she have plundered along the way?”

“What are you saying, you want to board her?” Callum asked as he set his cup down.

“If there is something that is there and we can profit from it, why not?” Thomas asked.

“Are you that greedy or are you just that insane?” Callum asked, “They are trained killers, Thomas, cutthroats, assassins. They would repel any boarding party that we could send. On top of that, there is no time to attempt that. We will get one, hopefully two broadsides into her before she can react. Timing is everything in this.”

“What if she is fully laden, Quintan?” Thomas asked as he leaned on the table.

“I doubt that Ramirez would have sent it then.” Callum said.

“What if he didn’t know?” Thomas asked and had a strange look on his face as he raised an eyebrow. Callum narrowed his eyes and pursed his lips. He folded his arms over his chest and raised a hand to his chin, scratching it in thought, “I will leave you to ponder that for a while. I am due up on deck so I can get you to Bristol.” Thomas said. He went to the berth and took his tunic, putting it on slowly over his bad arm and gave a slight groan with it. He went to the cabin door and went out as Callum sat down lost in thought over what Thomas had said.

Callum sat for a while with thoughts nagging at him. He could hear the strain of the anchor being hauled up as it echoed throughout Dover, the thick, heavy rope groaning and being rung out as it was drug over the worn wood of the cog of the Capstain. He could faintly hear the call of one of the young officers to ‘heave, heave’ and he could see it in his mind, the sway of the arm of that young officer’s tunic, spurring the men on as those men toiled in their walking around and around, pushing against the rods that had been put into place in the upper section. Callum had at this point about all that he could take of this just sitting. He rose up from the table, but he also knew that he needed to keep his word to Thomas about staying below decks and out of the sight of the men. Callum went to the door, opening it, turning and proceeded along the companionway and went to the Ward Room. He knocked and opened the door. He smiled at what he saw inside.

“Up and about, I see.” Callum said to Christian.

“I am, but am moving rather slowly it seems.” Christian said.

“Up for some company?” Callum asked.

“Of course, Quintan, come in, come in.” Christian said, sitting down on one of the benches at the long table, “You would be a welcome relief of my aches and pains.” Callum came over and sat near him, straddling the bench.

“Has Arthur…” Callum started to ask, Christian rolled his eyes.

“He has been here, poking and prodding at me already this morning. I think sometimes that man loves to do that as he knows it pains me so, and it always seems to me that he enjoys it a bit too much.” Christian said and Callum chuckled.

“And here I thought that I was his personal favorite to torment. I am very glad to hear that I have someone to share that with, thank you, Christian.” Callum said.

“Well, whatever I can do.” Christian said, “But please, I beg you, don’t make me laugh as that hurts the most.”

“I will keep our talk as somber as I can then.” Callum said and smiled, “I was hoping that we could talk about what is to come.”

“I was going to discuss with the Captain of the Marines that very thing actually.” Christian said.

“Excellent, but I think we should refine this little plan a bit before you do that.” Callum said. Christian raised an eyebrow slightly on his handsome face, “You know that I have Thomas steering toward them when we reach the harbor, and I agree with what you said about launching the boats if they start going overboard, but I think it may be too confusing especially with the gun crews.”

“You might be right about that. You have something else in mind obviously.” Christian said.

“How would you feel about being towed in the longboats behind us. You could cast loose when we make our first turn to give them their first broadside. The momentum of being pulled alone will speed the longboats along for some distance, giving time to set oars and also for you to evaluate if indeed any of them jump ship.” Callum said.

“Catch them as they hit the water so to speak.”

“Exactly.” Callum said.

“Do you want us to shoot them as they jump?” Christian asked with a smirk on his handsome face.

“If you can pluck them while in the air, that would be fine with me, or you can simply shoot them in the water, I don’t care either way. I simply want them dead, each and every one of them.” Callum said and had a chill in his tone.

“I was trying to make a jest, Quintan.” Christian said looking serious now.

“I was deadly serious, Christian. I want them all dead, plain and simple. They will never be able to act against us or Henry if they are dead.”

“I see your point.”

“Set the Headsails!” The muffled voice above their heads called out.

“It seems that we are getting underway.” Callum said. He looked over head and the lantern hanging from the beam seemed to lay just a bit more with its slight sway. Three points to starboard Callum thought. He smiled a bit as he knew what Thomas was doing, taking the full wind and to swing out of the mouth of the harbor and then adjust sail to sail into the wind.

“Something nautical going on?” Christian asked.

“And here I thought you were a sailor at heart, Christian.” Callum said lowering his eyes from the lantern to look at his friend.

“Truth be known, I was so sick during my first ever sailing. I could barely walk for three days. And the mere smell of food sent me to the railings to heave my guts.” Christian said.

“Hmmm, not for me. I clearly remember my first time at sea, it was glorious.” Callum said.

“When was that?” Christian asked and Callum just looked at him, “Clearly we have several hours to spend with one another, unless you have something else better to do.”

“No, spending quality time with you, my friend, is always a joy.” Callum smiled.

“Thank you. I feel the same with you. I just regret that we haven’t had that much time alone as of yet. It always seems that either Thomas or Dustin or both are with us or nearby.”

“Yes, it does always seem that way, doesn’t it?” Callum asked, “You wanted to know about my first sailing, hmmm, well let me see, I was a midshipman, about nine years old I think. I was given orders to report to the Dover. Captain Powers was to be my commander. He had quite a stern reputation, but I was excited about it. He also had a reputation for battle, a good one. He never faltered and always had the weathergauge. Anyway, I arrived in Portsmouth and I will tell you it was the foulest weather I had ever seen in my life at that point. The swells in the harbor alone came up and over the docks, washing almost everything away.

“Dover was out in the harbor and we had to take a longboat to get to her. I had never rowed a boat before until then. I remember during that gale, it was the hardest thing I had ever done. We were almost swamped more than once by the time we got to the ship and we were all soaked to the skin. I came aboard and the deck was rocking violently. Men were grabbing anything they could just to support themselves to stay on their feet.

“I came before the Captain and reported directly to him for coming onboard. I remember him looking down at me, this small boy, and as the ship rolled about around us, I remember him just standing there, not supported by anything at all. I spread my feet out a bit and did as he did and all he gave me was a nod. And in all of that, I never once felt sick, not once.”

“He seems to have been very important to you.” Christian said.

“Indeed he was, very important, the father I never had.” Callum said and folded his arms over his chest as he sat there, “The day he died, the day I took command of this ship, not only was it sad because of his loss, but in that fleeting moment when he died, I thought to myself, that if I could have given my life to save his, I would have without hesitation.”

“But look at you now, an Admiral in His Majesty’s Navy, you have a son, and someone who loves you more than life itself.” Christian said.

“Well, if you are speaking of Dustin, I think he would trade me off without a second thought sometimes.” Callum said, “Especially if that someone was as handsome and charismatic as you.”

“Don’t make me laugh, Quintan, though I appreciate the compliment.” Christian said.

“Don’t underestimate yourself, Christian, you have true beauty about you and I have seen how you two look at one another from time to time.” Callum said and Christian went wide eyed at him, “But I trust you both and I know that you would not and he certainly would not betray that trust.”

“I will admit, he has tempted me more than once, Quintan, not by him doing it, but in my own mind. And you are right, I hold yours and mines friendship in the highest and would never betray that with a mere dalliance, even if might it be incredible.” Christian said and gave a smirk toward Callum. Callum laughed and put a hand to Christian’s knee, patting it.

“You, my friend, are a scoundrel.” Callum said.

“Why, thank you. And here I thought you thought me a true noble.”

“You are, my friend, by birth as we both know, but it is by deed that I find your true value. I would rather have a scoundrel at my side than a nobleman any given day.” Callum said.

“I am glad we are friends, Quintan, very glad.” Christian said. He put an arm out and they gave each other a good hug.

“I am glad as well, Christian, truly glad.” Callum said to Christian’s ear and they pulled apart. There was a knock at the door, “Enter.” Callum said. The door opened and Shem was there.

“Beggin’ your pardon, sir.” Shem said.

“It’s alright, Shem. I was just checking up on the good Captain here.” Callum said.

“Would either of ye be wantin’ breakfast, sir?” Shem asked in his deep voice. Callum looked at Christian and raised an eyebrow and then looked at Shem.

“I believe we would, Shem, thank you.” Callum said. Shem tipped his hand and closed the door, “I hope his cooking is a better sight than Carson’s when he was my steward.”

“Was he really that bad?” Christian asked.

“Aboard this ship he was. But I think it was because he was a bit overwhelmed, cooking for the crew as well. When he was aboard the sloop when we were after the Avion, his cooking was excellent and actually rivaled Martha’s.” Callum said.

“Are you serious?”

“I am indeed.” Callum said. There was another knock on the door, “Enter.” Callum said, “Mr. Middleboro.” The young tipped his hand toward Callum.

“The Captain’s compliments, sir, he asked if you could join him on deck, sir.” The young man said, trying not to smile as he looked at Callum.

“Give the Captain my compliments. Tell him I would pleased to join him and I shall be up presently.” Callum said.

“Very good, sir.” Middleboro said, tipping his hand, and closed the door.

“I wonder what he’s up to.” Callum said.

“Thomas? God only knows. There are times when I think he is actually trying to reinvent breathing.” Christian said and rolled his eyes. Callum laughed out loud. He put a hand gently on the shoulder of his friend as he rose up off the bench.

“Well, if he gets carried away, I will strip him of command and have him keelhauled for you.” Callum said.

“Call me first so I can watch.” Christian said as Callum went to the door. Callum chuckled.

“I should be back shortly.” Callum said and left the Ward Room. He proceeded through the gangway, by the three small cabins that the junior officers shared and went out the port doorway onto the Main Deck of Dover. Callum took in the stiff wind, his tail blew about behind on, dancing on his shoulder a bit as he looked about. The hands all tipped their obedience to him and he nodded slightly then took the port stairs up to the Quarterdeck. All officers and hands there tipped their hands toward him, even Thomas.

“Admiral Callum, thank you for joining me.”

“My pleasure, Captain Tomlin.” Callum said and looked toward the west, he could see why Thomas summoned him now. Thick dark clouds were coming on the horizon, “I think we might be in for some weather when reach our destination.”

“I think so as well.” Thomas said, “And the wind is coming up harder.”

“Damn.” Callum said softly, “This cannot hinder us, Thomas.” Callum said above a whisper.

“I think that storm may have other ideas about that, Quintan.” Thomas whispered.

“What else can go wrong?” Callum asked.

“Middleboro said he found you in the Ward Room.” Thomas said.

“Yes, I was entertaining Christian.”

“How is he?” Thomas asked quietly.

“He is as well as can be expected I suppose. It looks to me that his color has improved.” Callum said.

“Good, I was worried.” Thomas said.

“He is tough and resilient, you know that.” Callum said.

“Almost as tough as you are.” Thomas said, “I shall keep an eye on that storm. We are about to turn into the wind.”

“I will let see to your duties and get out of your way.” Callum said quietly, he then changed to his voice of authority as he straightened, “Thank you, Captain Tomlin for bringing that to my attention.” Callum said and went toward the port stairs to go back below.

“My pleasure, Admiral.” Thomas said and tipped his hand toward Callum, “Mr. Sommers.”

“Sir.”

“Standby to adjust sail. We are steering west.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said, putting a hand beside his mouth and looking upward, “Aloft there! Stand by to adjust your sail! All hands, man your lines!”

Callum went below and went back to the Ward Room, meeting Shem as he reached the door. Callum half smiled and opened it for him as his hands were full with a tray. Shem gave him a side glance and went in after Callum extended a hand. Shem went to the table and set the tray down. He removed plates and set one before Christian and as Callum sat on the bench again, a plate was placed in front of him as well. Callum looked at it and then up at Shem.

“I guess I should have laid money on that.” Callum said as Christian chuckled.

“Beg pardon, sir?” Shem asked.

“I was remarking to the Captain here earlier that I hoped that your cooking was better than Carson’s. It appears that you have beaten him in that. My compliments, Shem.” Callum said.

“Thank you, sir.” Shem said and tipped his hand. There was no smile with this man at all. Callum had always known him to be quiet and reserved, and he was also a devil with a sword when it came to it. Shem left the Ward Room.

“What did Thomas want?” Christian asked as he slowly ate his breakfast.

“A storm is approaching from the west, a considerable one by the looks of it.” Callum said in a calm voice but Christian stopped eating and looked at him.

“Will that alter the plan?” Christian asked. Callum swallowed what was in his mouth.

“It could, yes.” Callum said still being very calm, “But I will not let it stop me.”

“Of course.” Christian said quietly. He looked back at his plate.

“You should finish your breakfast, Christian, it might be the last good meal we get for a time.” Callum said.

“I suppose you’re right.” Christian said quietly. A knock came at the door, Christian looked up.

“Enter.” Callum said as he set his fork down.

“Begging your pardon, Admiral.” Darin Talon stood at the door.

“That’s alright, Darin, come in.” Callum said, giving the young man a half smile. Darin nodded at Christian.

“Captain Tomlin’s compliments, sir. He asks if you would join he and the officers in the Great Cabin, sir.”

“My compliments to Captain Tomlin, Darin. Inform Thomas that I will join them in a couple of minutes.” Callum said.

“Very good, sir.” Darin said, tipping his hand and closed the door.

“What does he want now?” Christian asked.

“He wants me to explain to the officers what we are doing, and why. It removes the burden of this from Thomas’ shoulders as it were.” Callum said, pushing his plate away. Christian looked at him.

“But that puts everything on you, doesn’t it?”

“It does, but I was already prepared for that.” Callum said and stood. He looked down at his worried friend and put a hand on his shoulder, “Everything will be alright. The officers will fall in line with all of it and follow their orders to the letter I have no doubt.” He took his hand from Christian’s shoulder and went to the door, “If this approaching storm looks to get worse, we will have to devise something else, for you and your Marines.”

“Let me know.” Christian said. Callum nodded and opened the door. He went out onto the companionway and walked the few steps to the Great Cabin and gave a knock. He heard Thomas give entry and Callum opened the door. He stepped in and all the officers stiffened and tipped their hands to him. Callum shut the door and stepped forward.

“Good morning, gentlemen.” Callum said. They all replied ‘good morning’ back to him all at once, “I take it that you wish for me to explain our mission, Captain Tomlin?” Callum asked.

“If you please, Admiral.” Thomas said in the midst of his officers, “Gentlemen, why don’t you make yourselves comfortable, please.” Thomas said and had the officers sit about at the long table. Callum walked around and went to the stern windows of the cabin and looked out, clasping his hands behind his back. The assemblage waited and just watched him.

“Let me begin by saying that it is a true privilege to be sailing aboard this vessel and an honor to be sailing with all of you gentlemen.” Callum said as he continued to look out the windows. Some of them said their thank you’s to him. He slowly turned and looked at this group of young men, all of them younger than he himself but not by much. He remembered when each and every one of them had come on board to join this family of Dover, he cleared his throat a bit, “I am certain by now all of you know that we are sailing to Bristol but you may not know why. I will explain it you fully.” Callum said and looked at them all carefully, slowly, knowing he had to word this right for them, “A ship has been sent there and is anchored, a pirate ship, and we have tasked to destroy that ship.”

“Firing on a ship within our own waters, sir?” Cary Sommers asked.

“That is correct, Mr. Sommers.” Callum said in an even voice, “That ship and its crew is part of a larger fleet sent from the Caribbean. They are a danger to all of us here in England. The Admiralty has learned of their presence, but only after they have been anchored in Bristol. Members of that crew have already come ashore once to commit an act of murder. They have been stopped and justice has been exacted upon them. However, there is still a danger from that ship and the remaining members of that crew and we have been given orders to stop them, whatever it takes.”

“How large is this ship, sir?” Sommers asked.

“She’s a ninety-six.” Callum said. All eyes of the officers went wide, “I know what you are all thinking at this moment, and I can certainly understand it, but there are certain things that are in our favor with this. One, we have, in my opinion, the finest crew in the fleet with us. Two, we have the element of surprise in this. Three, we have the capability with our experience to see them undone.”

“She outguns us three to one, sir.” Sommers said.

“I am certainly glad that you can count, Mr. Sommers,” Callum said dryly, “however, as I said we have the element of surprise in this. Those of you that were with me at La Rochelle will recall that we took on a Spanish Man-O-War nearly the same size and we bested them with little damage. We will do the same in Bristol against these bastards. We will sail into the harbor, come straight at them sailing under no flag, we will turn, give them a full broadside, reload rapidly as I taught most of you and the crew, fire into them again, make our turn, and do it all over once more.”

“Forgive me, sir, but as you recall some of us were not with you at La Rochelle.” Sommers said.

“I have asked Captain Tomlin to have a practice at the guns while we are underway, hopefully right after this meeting and will be shown how to reload faster than you have ever done before. With that being said, I know what each and every one of you are capable of. I have seen it time and time again. Follow your orders from your Captain, and we will be successful in this, I have no doubt.” Callum said. He looked at all of them, “Are there any questions?” Callum asked. Most of them looked unsure and a couple of them seemed frightened, “Speak up, gentlemen, this is an open forum for you, at least for the moment until your Captain says otherwise.”

“Firing on a ship, sir, at anchor in our own waters. What about regulations?” Middleboro asked.

“A fair question.” Callum said and stepped a bit closer, “The Admiralty has given their full support in this action. As I have said to Captain Tomlin already, if there is anything that is said after this action, it will be placed directly upon me, I will take the full responsibility for it, and it will not reflect upon an of you or your careers whatsoever as you are only following orders.”

“Why destroy them, sir? Why not sail in and capture them with our squadron or another one?” Middleboro asked.

“Another fair question.” Callum said and gave Isaac Middleboro a brief smile, “There are ‘political’ concerns that are about in all of this. I am not at liberty to discuss them you must understand. If any of these…men escape what we are about to do, they will be dealt with swiftly.”

“Are you saying there is to be no quarter given, sir?” Sommers asked.

“Precisely, Mr. Sommers, no quarter is to be given, they are to be utterly destroyed in this action.” Callum said and there was a slight growl in his voice, “Any other questions?” Callum asked. All of the officers fell silent, some shook their heads a bit, “Very well then.” Callum said and looked at Thomas, “Captain Tomlin?”

“Thank you, Admiral. Mr. Sommers.” Thomas said.

“Sir?”

“Beat to Quarters.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said, tipping his hand to his Captain as Thomas stared at Callum, their eyes locked on one another. All of the officers filed out of the Great Cabin leaving them alone. Thomas stepped closer to Callum, never breaking his stare.

“We’re not going to survive this.” Thomas said softly. Callum continued his stare at Thomas as the drum sounding the call could now be heard in the distance.

“Starboard battery, stand by to fire!” Sommers called out as he looked about at all the men on the guns, he raised a hand, and dropped it, “FIRE!”

Callum sat in the Great Cabin hearing the guns going off almost at once. He could almost count them in his mind as he listened. He waited a moment as he listened.

“Reload!” Sommers called out. The order took too long from what Callum heard. He waited again, “Stand by to fire!” Callum counted as he waited, he waited more, “Roll out!” Callum shook his head as he kept counting, “Stand by!” Callum heard, “FIRE!” The thunderous roll of the cannons could be heard as well as felt. Callum knew they were on a down roll surge in the water. He shook his head again. Thomas may be right in this, we may not survive this, he thought to himself. Apparently Cary Sommers had an issue with timing, timing of the firing of a full broadside. Callum knew all too well that timing in firing was critical to success in a battle, especially against a larger vessel. Callum heard the knock.

“Enter.” Callum said. The door opened and more shouts and orders could be heard.

“Captain Tomlin’s compliments, sir.” The young midshipman said, tipping his hand.

“What is it, Mr. Palmer?” Callum asked. He knew this young boy, but not well. He was one of the replacement junior officers right after La Rochelle.

“He asks that you join him up on deck, sir.” The boy said looking very nervous.

“Everything alright, Mr. Palmer?” Callum asked as he rose to his feet.

“Not entirely, sir.” The boy said as Callum came toward him.

“What seems to be the trouble?” Callum asked.

“Begging your pardon, sir. I overheard the Captain saying something about his displeasure, sir.” The boy stopped himself from saying anything further. He looked more than frightened at that moment. Callum smiled at him.

“Perhaps in the future, Mr. Palmer, you should remind yourself not to say just anything in respects of your Captain.” Callum said softly, “As I know your Captain very well, he might take offense to it.”

“Yes, sir.” The boy said and gulped. Callum put a hand on the young shoulder.

“You lead the way and I will follow.” Callum said, guiding the boy out of the door, following behind him and closing the Great Cabin.

“Aye, aye, sir.” The boy had said, and swallowing hard again. They passed through going by the galley, Callum looked as they proceeded but he didn’t see Shem. He thought it odd and the reached the starboard door under the Quarterdeck. Young Palmer opened the door and held it for Callum, letting him go first. He followed, closing the door behind him. Officers and hand were on the MainDeck and looked at Callum, tipping their hands to him as he came up the starboard stairs. Callum looked about and saw Thomas at the forerailing, looking at him, giving him a nod and then tipped his hand as well.

“What can I do for you, Captain Tomlin?” Callum asked.

“Thank you for joining me, Admiral. We were having some practice with the guns. I thought you might like to watch our progress.”

“Most kind of you, Captain. Proceed if you will.” Callum said, turning and looking out over the MainDeck down at all assembled.

“Mr. Sommers, if you please.” Thomas said with a nod.

“Gun crews! Reload!” Sommers called out as he looked around on the deck. All hands jumped to reload the guns. The sounds and motions were a jumble to Callum. There was no organization to it. He could clearly see that the officers were not organized and therefore the crew did not respond as readily. Callum remained silent as the guns were finally loaded, “Run out!” Sommers called, “Stand by to fire!” Sommers called out and raised a hand, he dropped it, “FIRE!” The guns all went off, almost simultaneously. Callum waited and watched as the smoke cleared with the wind, washing toward he and Thomas on the Quarterdeck, rolling over them and the crew that was there with them. The smoke cleared as Callum put his hands on the forerailing. Thomas was looking at him out of the corner of his eye as he squinted from the smoke. Still there was nothing, no order. Callum wanted to explode inside. He merely shook his head a bit.

“Tell what you’re thinking.” Thomas whispered to him.

“That you were right earlier.” Callum said quietly and Thomas went wide eyed hearing it.

“I’m almost afraid to ask what you want to do now.”

“You should be afraid.”

“What does that mean?” Thomas asked.

“I can correct this situation, Thomas, but I gave you my word and I will not go back on it.”

“I know you wouldn’t.” Thomas said above a whisper, “But you need to act, Quintan, act to save all of us or I will have to turn this ship around.” Callum gave him a side glance and growled softly in his throat.

“Then you must act first.” Callum whispered.

“Tell me, Admiral, what is your opinion of our gun crews?” Thomas asked loud enough for all to hear him.

“It was somewhat impressive, Captain Tomlin, but unfortunately we are not shooting at a stationary building on a dock somewhere that cannot fight back.” Callum said. There was complete silence on the deck below, all eyes were wide and focused on the pair above them.

“What would you suggest, Admiral?” Thomas asked.

“Perhaps a bit of tutoring, if I may be so bold.” Callum said as he looked at his friend, his brother.

“If you wish, Admiral, please, indulge yourself.” Thomas said and held out his good hand toward the deck.

“Thank you, Captain.” Callum said turning and going to the starboard stairs going down. All eyes watched him and still there was definite silence among all assembled. He came through the officers and crew, all parted for him, tipping their hands as he passed them. He stopped and looked at the young midshipman, “Mr. Palmer.”

“Sir.” The boy said and stiffened.

“Once beat to quarters has been heard, where are you to go?” Callum asked.

“Below, sir, on the Gun Deck. I take the midships section and lead the gun crews there.” The boy said very much afraid.

“Very good, Mr. Palmer, I will require your assistance if you please.” Callum said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” The boy said, swallowing hard, tipping his hand. Callum turned and continued until he reached Cary Sommers and stopped in front of him.

“Mr. Sommers.”

“Admiral.”

“I mean no insult to you, sir, or to your gun crews, please understand.”

“I understand fully, sir.” Sommers said and stiffened.

“Your timing needs to improve, improve greatly. You are slow in reloading and take far too much time in giving orders. If you will accompany myself and Mr. Palmer, perhaps I can help in this.”

“At your service, Admiral.” Sommers said and stiffened even more. Callum turned and went down the companionway ladder to the Gun Deck below, Sommers and Palmer followed him down. All hands there tipped their hands to Callum as he looked about. Callum looked up at those on the MainDeck had gathered at the large open hatchway. Callum saw the one he needed in this this, “Greene, assemble all hands to watch our practice.” Callum said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Greene said and looked about, “All hands, assemble here at the hatchway!”

Callum looked about him on the deck gathered about. He knew them, the vast majority of them. He slipped off his tunic and handed it to a young boy, a powder monkey, winking at him once. Callum untied his necktie and unspun it off his neck, handing it to the boy as well.

“Now, all of you understand this, and understand this full well. We are going to take on a ship that is three times our size and strength.” Callum said clearly as he looked about, “We have been against larger odds before and have prevailed, we will do so again. I know what you are capable of. Follow the instructions of the officers and the day can be ours.”

“Is it a French ship, sir? One of the crew asked. Callum looked about at all gathered around him.

“It is not.” He said clearly, “It is a pirate vessel, a privateer, bent on murder. Our orders are to destroy it and that is exactly what we are going to do. Make no mistake in this, we can best her, if you follow the instruction.” Callum said and looked about again. He saw in those familiar faces some of those that were with him on the sloop, and those were also with him at La Rochelle, “Brewster, Hawkins, Rafkin, Jennings.” Callum said as he pointed at each of them, “You will join me with Mr. Palmer in manning this gun.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” The men all said and stepped forward or through those of the crew that blocked their way, coming before Callum.

“We will reload on the four count, run her out and fire smartly on the uproll, just as we did at La Rochelle. Are you with me?” Callum asked.

“Aye, aye, sir.” They all answered tipping their hands quickly and grinning.

“Mr. Palmer, you will touch her off when we run out, understood?”

“Understood, sir.” The boy answered.

“The rest of you stand clear. Mr. Sommers, you should time us, if you please.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said. He looked up at the open hatch. He saw his Captain there now looking down with a raised eyebrow, “Hour glass!” Sommers called out. One of the hands held out a small one and passed it down. Sommers took it and was ready to flip it to start the timing.

“We will start time on the pull back of the gun. I will call it out for each step. Understood?” Callum asked each of his men. Callum took a rope in his hands that worked one of the blocks to pull the gun back. He was joined by Jennings on the rope, “Rafkin, you will load and ram.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” He said with a nod.

“Alright, standby.” Callum said. Hawkins and Brewer readied themselves on the opposite side of the gun, ropes in hand, “Start the time. Pull her back! One, two, three, four!” Callum growled as he and the men pulled, “Load!” He called out, “One, two, three, four.” He called out as Rafkin had ran down a powder bag, some wadding, the ball, and grabbed the ram rod, “Faster now! Faster!” Callum out as Rafkin rammed the rod and pulled it back, “Run her out!” Callum called as they had switched to another rope on opposite blocks to pull the gun forward, “One, two, three, four!” Callum called as they pulled the heavy gun, getting its muzzle out of the open gun port, “Fire!” He called and Palmer pulled the cord on the trigger. The gun roared and slid back about halfway on its rollers, “Pull her back!” Callum called and they found the other rope and pulled even in the heavy smoke about them, “One, two, three, four! Load!” Callum called. It was difficult to see in the smoke but it was clearing about them all on the deck, “One, two, three, four!” Callum called as Rafkin was about there with his ramming, “Run her out!” Thjs time, they had already moved to the other rope and as Rafkin barely cleared the muzzle, the gun was on the forward move to the gun port and run out fully, “Fire!” Callum called and the gun went off again. More smoke enveloped them all. There were a few that coughed, but all paid close attention to what was happening. The gun had rolled back with the recoil of the muzzle blast, and again, hands had changed ropes, “Pull her back, Three, four!” Callum called as the recoil had brought the gun almost fully back and gained them a bit in effort of the pull, “Load!” Callum called and switched ropes along with Jennings, “One, two, three, four! Fire!” Callum said as they released the ropes. The gun thundered once again and rolled back on its own. Smoke surrounded them fully, “Time!” Callum called.

Cary Sommers looked at the small hour glass and couldn’t believe it. He looked at Callum as he emerged out of the smoke, standing there on the deck, his gun crew beside and behind him, waiting as they looked at the officer.

“Four minutes, thirty, sir.” Sommers said as he stared at Callum in disbelief. Cheers went up throughout the entire ship. Callum looked up at the open hatchway and raised an eyebrow to Thomas. Thomas smiled briefly and nodded in Callum’s direction. Callum waited for the excitement and cheers to die down a bit. He turned and looked at all assembled about him.

“There is work to be done! All hands, man your guns! We will practice until we are proficient, gentlemen. Stand by!” Callum called out and all hands jumped to their guns on both decks, all officers lined out with those in their charge as well, “Gun crew officers, on the four count like I showed you!” Callum called out, “Mr. Sommers, take charge.”

“Aye, aye, sir! You heard the order!” Sommers called out as he looked about him, “Pull them back! One, two, three, four!” Sommers called out as Callum went up the ladder to the MainDeck. Thomas came to him and joined him as the officers were all in unison finally. The crew had their direction at last and were working as hard as they could to make everything run smoothly. The guns thundered as one now as Callum and Thomas went up the starboard stairs to the Quarterdeck, looking out through the smoke as it wafted over them obscuring their vision. But from the calls of the officers, the sounds of rollers from the guns, they both knew it was happening. Another shout with counting and then the order to fire. The guns went off simultaneously again and Callum smiled out of the corner of his mouth.

“You may have just saved us all.” Thomas whispered in the smoke.

“Possibly.” Callum whispered back. Thomas coughed slightly a couple of times, “Smoke bothering you, Thomas?” Callum asked and chuckled softly.

“You’re made of it. It has never bothered you, has it?” Thomas asked. Callum only shook his head, Thomas didn’t see it for the smoke about them, “You were made for battle, Quintan, plain and clear.”

“There are times that I love it so, I will not deny that.” Callum said softly as the guns went off in unison again. More smoke filled the air.

“I think they may have it now.” Thomas said.

“Give them a few more rounds before you stop them, Thomas, just to be sure of it.”

“As you wish, Admiral.” Thomas said. Callum could hear his tone and smirked at it.

“Deck there!” Came the voice from above them. Callum and Thomas instinctively looked up.

“Cease fire!” Thomas called out loudly, “Aloft!”

“Sail astern, sir!” The voice called down. Thomas and Callum turned and looked toward the rear of Dover but couldn’t see anything for the smoke about them.

“What do you think?” Thomas asked.

“I don’t know. It may be a merchant or simply one of ours coming back from a patrol.” Callum said.

“Glass!” Thomas called out and held out his good hand as they went to the aft railing. One of the crew handed Thomas a glass. He tried to extend it with his one hand and struggled. Callum frowned and took it from him, extending it for him. He went to hand it back to Thomas, who returned the frown, “You’d better do it, I won’t be able to hold it with one hand.” Callum lifted the glass with both hands and put it to his eye. As the smoke cleared, he could see the ship in the distance.

“I can’t make her out yet. I can’t see a flag. She’s flying a pennant, two colored orange over black. She’s English built for certain, but that means nothing.” Callum said and lowered the glass.

“A single pennant. How far off do you think she is?” Thomas asked.

“Ten miles or a bit more. With this headwind, we should be able to stay ahead of her.” Callum said.

“What if it’s another pirate joining the first?” Thomas asked and Callum looked at him.

“The Caribbean is in the opposite direction, Thomas.” Callum pursed his lips and scowled at his friend.

“Of course you’re right.” Thomas said and rolled his eyes a bit.

“What is it, sir?” Sommers asked as he came up behind them.

“Another ship, Mr. Sommers.” Thomas said as he looked at him. Callum turned and looked at him as well as Sommers stared off at the other ship.

“What was your time, Mr. Sommers?” Callum asked. Sommers snapped back to look at him.

“My time, sir? Oh, beg your pardon, Admiral, just short of five and thirty, sir.” Sommers said, tipping his hand.

“And what do you think of that, Mr. Sommers?” Callum asked. Sommers swallowed hard and looked a bit nervous.

“There is obviously room for improvement, sir, to try and best yours, sir.” Sommers said.

“The heat of battle can do that for you as well, Mr. Sommers, wouldn’t you agree, Captain Tomlin?” Callum asked.

“I have heard of and have seen that as well myself, Admiral, as you know.” Thomas said.

“Do you have any idea what the record time for rapid reload is, Mr. Sommers?” Callum asked.

“No, sir, I’m sorry that I don’t.” Sommers said.

“The record time for rapid volley was set by HMS Audacious at the Battle of the Nile, Mr. Sommers. I witnessed it myself, actually, which gave me the idea that we could do this ourselves.” Callum said.

“I had no idea, sir.” Sommers said but looked at Callum with narrowed eyes, “But what was the record time, sir?”

“You’ve beat it by almost three full minutes, Cary, congratulations.” Callum said and winked at him. Sommers opened his mouth with surprise and his eyes were wide.

“Thank you, sir.” Sommers said and could barely contain himself.

“Don’t let it go to your head, Mr. Sommers.” Thomas said.

“Uh, no, sir, I would not let it, sir, I assure you.” Sommers said. Callum stepped one step closer to him.

“I will tell you one thing, Cary, the one thing that will be between the three of us until you give the order.” Callum said and had Sommers complete attention. He settled down immediately, Callum had done it on purpose for just that reason.

“Yes, sir?” Sommers asked.

“When we engage this pirate, aim for each of her gun ports, do you understand? The more of her guns that are out of action, the better our chances of winning the day.” Callum said. Sommers was wide eyed again and nodded.

“I’ll remember that, sir, you can rely on that.” Sommers said.

“I know I can. Now, have your gun crews grease all of their blocks and wheels on the guns. It will make them fly even faster.” Callum said, “And with that done, you might even beat my time.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said, tipping his hand. He turned and hurried to the stairs, calling out orders as he went down them.

“I thought he was going to wet himself for a moment.” Thomas said, “You certainly can a devil, Quintan.” Thomas said and looked over the aft rail again at the distant ship, “I wonder who the devil they are.” Callum extended the glass again and lifted it. He watched the ship closely and then frowned.

“Well, whoever they are they mean to catch up with us. They’re putting on more canvas.” Callum said. Thomas turned and looked back toward the forerail. He saw Middleboro coming up the stairs.

“Mr. Middleboro.” Thomas said.

“Sir?” He answered and came toward his Captain, tipping his hand.

“Send the port tack crew aloft, I want more canvas put on before we reach that storm front and flatten out the jib.” Thomas said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Middleboro said, tipping his hand, turning immediately. He went quickly to the rail, cupping his hands to his mouth.

“Port side, aloft! Set Tregalones and Royals! Flatten out the jib!” Middleboro called out and hands jumped to the order, men started climbing up the rigging on the Mainmast and up the Mizzen rising up out of the Quarterdeck. All of them knew what they needed to do and what the Captain was wanting. Three men were forward and adjusted the jib, rotating it to a flat out, backriggng the sail quickly to use the wind to make Dover ride higher on her bow. As the sails unfurled and took the wind, Callum could feel it under his feet in the deck, Dover responding as he knew she could acting like a flat rock skipping across a pond.

“Sails set, sir.” Middleboro reported. Callum turned and looked aloft. He could see it. The rigging and lines going taught with the new strain as Dover was now gliding in the water rather than digging into it.

“Very good. Maintain your course, Dorfman.” Thomas said as he went by the wheel.

“Aye, aye, sir.” The older man said, his tough hands held tight on the oak as the new strain was now pulling Dover toward starboard and land. Dorfman rolled the wheel a bit to keep her tracking on course. Callum walked up next to the older man who had been with in the pursuit of the Avion.

“She’s fighting it a bit, sir.” Dorfman said to Callum.

“She doesn’t quite handle like the sloop, does she?”

“Not exactly, sir. She seems to have a mind of her own.” Dorfman said. Callum smiled and nodded.

“She always has.” Callum said. He thought of Dustin and what it might be like to have him here at the wheel right at this moment. Dustin was the only one that knew Dover’s moods and always knew how to calm her when she was like this.

“Deck there!” Came the cry from aloft. Callum looked up and the man at the nest platform was pointing aft again. Callum turned and extended the glass again, going to the aft rail. He lifted the glass to his eye.

“What are they doing now?” Thomas asked as he came next to Callum.

“They’re signaling, but not to us. I can’t make it out from this distance.” Callum said and lowered the glass, “She has to be one of ours.”

“Who would they be signaling to?” Thomas asked.

“We should be near Coverack by now I would think.” Callum said as he collapsed the glass.

“We should be about there I agree.”

“There is a semaphore there if memory serves. Maybe they’re signaling them.”

“Are they gaining on us?” Thomas asked as he looked at the distant ship.

“Yes, but only slightly. We should have better wind once we round the tip and start heading north.” Callum said, “All we can do now is watch and wait.” Thomas looked at him and could see that look on Callum’s face, a look he had seen before.

“Alright, what are you thinking?” Thomas asked softly. Callum raised an eyebrow slightly, “I’ve seen that look before on your face, many times actually.”

“You seem to know me too well, Thomas, too much for your own good, methinks.” Callum said. He could see the look on his friend’s face, one of waiting for an explanation, “If it is one of ours, it just might be a godsend in this. Perhaps if they are sailing on to Bristol as we are, they may join us.”

“But then again they may fire upon us if they see us shooting at an anchored ship that is relatively defenseless.” Thomas said.

“You always think the worst, don’t you?” Callum asked.

“It comes from spending so much time with you. I have learned painfully, I might add, to always think that way.”

“The phrase ‘doubting Thomas’ seems to fit you for some unknown reason.” Callum said and smirked as Thomas rolled his eyes a bit, “I shall go below and check on Christian and see how he is faring. Then I believe I will get a bit of sleep. The practice earlier has seemed to have drained me a bit.”

“I don’t doubt it. When was the last time you actually had a line like that to pull on?” Thomas asked.

“When we sailed last, chasing the Avion.” Callum said.

“Oh, I recall. I think it was when you swung out off that burning ship on that line and landing in the water. That was quite spectacular in seeing that as I recall. I hope and pray that it doesn’t happen again with this ship.” Thomas said.

“You know I would never allow anything to happen to this grand lady of ours, Thomas.” Callum said.

“Then perhaps I should turn us around now and not take the chance.” Thomas said and Callum frowned at him, “It was just a thought. I’ll shut up.” Thomas said. He cleared his throat and turned back toward the forerail, “I thank you for your assistance, Admiral.” Thomas said loud enough for all to hear.

“My pleasure, Captain.” Callum said and went toward the stairs, handing the glass to Middleboro. He went down the stairs, the wind blowing against his billowed sleeves of his shirt, making his tail ruffle a bit in it. The hands and the officers tipped their hands to him and just stared as he went to the starboard door and went inside on the companionway. Callum walked along and came to the Ward Room and knocked on the door. He opened it and saw Christian sitting at the table but he was not alone. A young man was there in full Marine uniform and he stood rigidly.

“Come in, Admiral, please.” Christian said, “Allow me to introduce Lt. Steven Caruthers, Captain of the Marines onboard Dover.” Callum closed the door and looked at the handsome young Marine in full uniform. Callum nodded at him and stepped forward, extending a hand. The young officer was wide eyed at seeing it stretched before him.

“Quintan Callum.” Callum said and raised a bit of an eyebrow. The young officer looked faint all of a sudden. He slowly took Callum’s hand in his and Callum noticed it was sweating a bit in his palm.

“Lt. Steven Caruthers, Admiral, at your service, sir.” The young officer said.

“First time aboard on a mission, Lieutenant?” Callum asked and the young officer lowered his hand. He swallowed hard, it was audible. Christian was resisting to chuckle a bit.

“I…I…have sailed….before, sir.” The young officer said.

“Excellent.” Callum said, “Then you won’t be as apt as our good Captain here to lose your guts when we reach heavy weather that we are approaching.” Callum said, more of a tease to his friend than toward the young officer.

“I wouldn’t know about that, sir.” The young officer said as Callum sat down on the opposite bench across the table from Christian.

“Tell me, Lieutenant, is this your first command?”

“It is, sir.”

“You can sit down, Lieutenant, I promise I won’t bite you.” Callum said and smirked. The young officer gave a look to his left to his superior officer, who had not risen when Callum walked into the room. Christian nodded and the young man sat down next to Christian again, “Make yourself comfortable, Lieutenant, I think we are about to have a long discussion.”

“I was telling our young officer here about our plan. He has some concerns over it.” Christian said.

“Indeed, well then, let’s hear them.” Callum said and sat back a bit, crossing his arms over his chest. He had crossed his long legs as well, but those across the table couldn’t see it.

“He was saying that he thought with the coming weather, that there might be a problem with dry powder for his Marine’s muskets.” Christian said as the young officer was speechless as he stared at Callum. Callum shifted his eyes back and forth between Christian and the young officer and then focused full on the young man across from him.

“Cat got your tongue?” Callum asked Caruthers.

“I…I beg your pardon, sir?” The young officer asked.

“Is our dear Captain here going to be speaking for you during this entire talk, I wonder?” Callum asked.

“I apologize, sir, truly.”

“Then what is it?” Callum asked.

“I know of you, sir, I’m sorry, but it was Colonel Simmonds that described you in detail, sir. He was correct in what he said, and with all the stories that he has told us of what you have done, well, sir…”

“I think I understand, Lieutenant.” Callum said holding up a hand to stop the young officer, “But did you say, Colonel Simmonds?”

“That’s correct, sir.” The young officer said and then it dawned on him, “I apologize again, sir. You must have known him as Major Simmonds. He was promoted, sir, very recently.”

“Well, it appears that promotion seems to follow all of us, doesn’t it?” Callum asked as he looked at Christian and smirked. Christian chuckled a bit, lowering his head a little. The young officer looked at his superior and then back at Callum.

“I’m sorry, sir, but there seems to be something that I am missing.”

“And you would be correct in that, Lieutenant. You see our dear Captain here is not only my neighbor, but is also one of my closest friends. There is a…familiarity and a bond that we share together, along with Captain Tomlin, the master of this vessel.” Callum said.

“I see, sir. I was not aware.”

“Nor should you be.” Callum said, “So, what are your other concerns, Lieutenant?”

“Well, sir…” The young officer said and struggled a bit for a moment, “only this. Captain Holt has told me of the mission, sir, and I fully understand what he and…you…want from this. But, with that, sir, I will tell you, I have a vested interest in this as well.”

“Oh, and how so?” Callum asked.

“Pirates, sir, they orphaned me and as for that fact, I wish to see them destroyed as well, sir, especially a certain pirate.”

“I am very sorry to hear that, Lieutenant. Could you tell me, who is this certain pirate?” Callum asked.

“It is said that they call him El Negro Diablo, the Black Devil, sir. His real name is Hector Ramirez.” Caruthers said and Callum raised an eyebrow fully and looked at Christian, who gave Callum a look in return.

“Interesting. Has Captain holt told you anything further about this pirate ship?” Callum asked.

“He has not given much detail about it at all, sir.” Caruthers said. Callum put his arms on the table before him and leaned on them, getting closer to the young Marine.

“Then I will tell that the ship we are going to destroy comes from Ramirez’s fleet directly from the Caribbean. I will also tell you that he has a personal vendetta against me for killing his brother and sinking one of his ships during another mission. They, his crew aboard that ship, have orders to murder my son and have already tried to do so but were stopped. We are going to destroy that ship and all that are aboard and then I will take my squadron and will hunt this bastard down and put an end to him once and for all. What do you say to that, Lieutenant?” Callum asked.

“You can more than count on my full support in this, Admiral.” Caruthers said, “And as well, when you go after this black hearted bastard I want to be there so I can cut out his heart as he did my mother and my father and he can watch it beat one last time before he dies as I hold it in my hand.” Caruthers said coldly and there had been a change in his face as he spoke. Callum sat back on the bench, crossing his arms again over his chest.

“Then we seem to think alike, Lieutenant.” Callum said carefully, looking at Christian briefly who was stunned at what his young officer had just said, Callum looked back at the young man, “So, tell me, what do you think that we need to do?”

“We board the ship with every last Marine, take them all, each and every one of them and end them without question or mercy.”

“That might be difficult. If we strike them as I plan and catch them off guard and sink them in the harbor, it would be enough in reality. I understand your desire to end them all as I share it fully, but there is this weather that we are closing in on and it will hamper what we want to do.” Callum said.

“I don’t believe so, sir.” Caruthers said, “Load all of my Marines in the boats and tow us in. We can cast loose and after you deliver your shots to this ship, we will board her as you make your turn and come at them again. You will have a better chance of destroying them if we are keeping them busy so they cannot return fire upon you. It only makes sense, sir.”

“Yes, it does, and I agree, however, there would great loss to your numbers, loss that I would have difficulty with, Lieutenant.” Callum said.

“If I may speak bluntly, Admiral, you know as well as I and also as well as the Captain here, that the Marines are nothing but merely cannon fodder for the Royal Navy. I say we use that to our advantage, sir, board that ship and take it from them, killing each and every one of them. If you so desire, then you may take her as a prize and we would gladly accept the help in taking her with the assistance from this crew.” Caruthers said, his tone was unmistakable. He wanted them dead, as much as Callum did.

It hit Callum hard, he was not alone in this, but all of a sudden there was something else, something that disturbed Callum, and it was what Caruthers was saying without actually saying it, it was going to be murder, murder in the highest, killing an entire ship’s crew. It twisted Callum’s gut in a knot. He had already committed murder while at home, killing those men without mercy or even second thought. Here was someone else, right before him, that wanted the same exact thing and he knew that Caruthers felt exactly the same, but his it was his own vengeance, his revenge against a faceless man halfway around the world from here.

“Shall I begin to prepare my men, Admiral?” Caruthers asked. Callum looked at him and firmed his stare on him. He nodded and Caruthers rose up from the table. He saluted Callum and dropped his hand, stepping over the bench and saluted Christian. Caruthers dropped his hand and went to the door, opening it and went out, closing it behind him.

“He’s mad, you know?” Christian asked.

“You think so?” Callum asked and Christian nodded, “Then I must be as well.”

“I don’t believe so, Quintan.” Christian said and looked at Callum and leaned on the table, “You are driven in this, driven to save your son from this threat to not only him, but to all of us, that live there. Our young Lieutenant is a different matter entirely. God only knows how long he has been carrying this inside of him. You have been dealing with the threat, the threat of all of it that we have all been through, that boy you rescued, the plot against him, that madman you sailed to find and stop, then Upton and what he represented. This Ramirez is only a part of it, a part of what you’ve been dealing with. As far as Caruthers is concerned, Ramirez is the total sum of it, the reason for his madness that he carries. And God only knows what will happen if Ramirez is put to an end, it might destroy Caruthers entirely, leaving him without purpose with his life or possibly relieving his madness that he feels.”

“My, you certainly have an opinion about this, Christian, I had no idea.” Callum said. Christian reached out a hand across the table, stretched toward Callum. Callum unfolded his arms and took Christian’s hand with his.

“You’re right, my friend, I do have an opinion and it is shared by those that love you, myself, Dustin, Thomas, Martha, and more importantly by Henry. He above all others in this, Quintan, needs you to survive in this, to return home to him, to raise him to be the good man that I know he will become, become because of you, Quintan, and only you. You know it to be true. So, with that said, we will destroy these cutthroat murdering bastards once and for all and be done with it. Caruthers will have to seek out his vengeance another way. You have a son that needs you, and that is your focus in this. I have seen it all along, everything we’ve been through together.” Christian said and squeezed the fingers he held in his. Callum smiled softly a bit and squeezed his fingers as well.

“I love you, Christian, more than I can say.” Callum said softly.

“I know, and I love you as well, my friend, my brother. I will lead this boarding party with Caruthers and the Marines. Together we have more than fifty of us. That should give you enough time to do what you have to do for us to be successful. Do not tell Thomas of this plan, he will fight you and it will divert your attention from your goal.” Christian said.

“I cannot ask you to possibly sacrifice your life, Christian, you mean too…”

“I know what you are trying to say, but you also know that it has to be done, Quintan, there is far too much at stake in this. Heed me, understand, my love for you is what is guiding me in this.” Christian said. Callum stiffened and slowly nodded. He knew Christian was right, needed to lead this and keep Caruthers focused and centered for this to work. Callum dropped a tear from his eye. He knew this was possibly going to be the last time he saw his dear friend alive, “Weep not, Quintan, I know it is best as you do as well.” Callum got up from the table and let go of Christian’s hand, turning away and going to the door, He opened it and did not look back, closing the door behind him.

His heart was tearing itself apart. He went to the Great Cabin and went inside, closing the door behind him. He needed sleep, but he couldn’t. There was no possible way he could. He crossed the cabin and looked out of the aft windows. He strained through the wavy glass and could barely see the distant ship a mere dot on the horizon. He wanted to have Thomas stop and wait for them, but also knew he couldn’t, the approaching storm might be upon them shortly and there was no time, the ship was at least an hour or more behind them as it was, even with full sail. And the ship they were going after, the pirate that was to be destroyed. If the rains were heavy, it would hamper their efforts to fire upon them fully, the difficulty with wet powder and such. Callum wanted to explode inside. His chest pounding, his ears hearing Christian’s voice and what he said over and over again. It was tearing him apart, and then there was Henry and what it meant to him. Callum broke down, putting his hands on the sill and let the tears flow freely.

“Enter.” Callum said after he heard the knock on the door of the Great Cabin. He had slowly composed himself and got his emotions under control.

“Beg pardon, sir.” The young voice said behind Callum on the other side of the cabin.

“Yes?” Callum asked.

“I have collected your tunic, sir, and your tie from the Gun Deck, sir.”

“Thank you.” Callum said softly, still facing away but looking at the floor of the cabin, his hands spread apart on the sill of the windows.

“Can I do something for you, sir?” The young voice asked. Callum shook his head only, “Very good, sir, what would you like me to do with this, sir?”

“Hang it on the back of one of the chairs if you would.” Callum said and took in and let out a breath. He heard the rustle of fabric and the small scoot of one of the chairs and knew it had been done.

“Can I do anything else, sir?” the young voice asked.

“Thank you, no.” Callum said and stood straight. He heard the door close behind him. He kept looking toward the approaching ship from behind them and was wondering more and more who they actually were. He was becoming angered, angered by everything that had happened, and was happening right now. He growled a bit in his throat with his anger, anger toward himself and then he felt it, a surge in the deck under his feet. He spun and saw the haversack swaying and leaning a bit, toward the starboard side of the cabin.

“Adjust sail!” He heard the cry resonating through the ship.

“Enough.” Callum said out loud, “Enough!” He yelled and went for the door, throwing it open and leaving it as he tromped along the companionway toward the starboard door. He threw it open and went out, not looking toward the men, even though they saw him and tipped their hands to him. He rounded the railing and went up the stairs, “Glass!” He demanded as he looked aft.

“Is there something that I can do for you, Admiral?” Thomas asked carefully as he saw the intense look on Callum’s face. A glass was handed to him and he went back toward the stairs, going down, two at a time. He reached the Maindeck and the hands cleared out of his way, tipping their hands as Callum reached the rigging, swinging himself up and standing on the railing of the gunwale. He took the glass and put it down inside of his shirt to hold it as he started climbing. All hands watched him as he went further and further up. He reached the first arm of the Mainmast and walked it, until he reached the inner set of rigging and started up.

“What’s he doing, sir?” Middleboro asked his Captain.

“You can ask him that yourself if you wish to join him, Mr. Middleboro.” Thomas said as he looked skyward.

Callum climbed to the next arm of the Mainmast and walked it. The wind was intense and he leaned a bit to keep his balance. All eyes from below were still upon him as he reached the next set of rigging and went up, climbing ever higher until he reached under the crows’ platform, the lookout at the highest point of the ship. He grabbed the rigging and swung from under the platform and grasped the edge of the platform, pulling himself up. He raised his eyes and saw the man that manned the platform, Jennings, reaching down his own hand to help Callum. A smile was given to each as Callum took the hand in his own. Jennings pulled but Callum did it on his own for the most part and stood on the platform. He spread his feet a bit to keep his balance as Jennings held onto a bit of rigging.

“I am certainly glad of the company, sir.” Jennings said out of the corner of his mouth.

“It can be quite lonely up here, from what I remember.” Callum said as he pulled the glass from inside his shirt. Jennings knew why Callum was here and watched as he extended the glass, not having one of his own up here at all. Callum lifted the glass to his eye as the sway of Dover in the swells kept him weaving a bit. Jennings put a hand on Callum’s belt and held on to steady him.

“I haven’t seen a flag on her as of yet, sir.” Jennings said.

“Your eyes might be better if you had this to help them.” Callum said and he smiled a bit. He knew exactly who they were now. He lowered the glass and collapsed it, putting it back into his shirt. Jennings let go of his grip and Callum gave him a nod, “I wanted to tell you, Jennings, it was good to pull a line with you again.”

“Thank you, sir.” Jennings said and tipped his hand with a smile, “It’ll be another thing I’ll be able to tell my grandchildren, sir, sailing and shooting with Cap’n Callum again.”

“You’re a good man, Jennings, there are none better.” Callum said with a soft smile and a nod.

“Can I be given ye a hand down, sir?” Jenning asked.

“I think I can manage, but thank you.” Callum said as he got down on the deck, swinging his legs over the edge. He slid off and caught his foot in the rigging and started to work himself down onto it. He climbed down. Some of the hands that were aloft nodded to him to keep their balance, this was the only place aboard ship that tipping hands was not permitted, Callum knew it fully and proceeded along. Going along the upper cross arm and reaching the rigging, swinging down into it, climbing downward and reached the last cross arm. One of the younger men was there and had his hand on a line. Callum lifted his chin toward him as a nod and the youth stretched out to let him have it. Callum walked the few steps balancing himself and he took the line from him, wrapping his boots around it and went hand over hand going down. He reached just above the Maindeck and let his feet untangle and held the rope with only his hands. All eyes were on him as he let go of the rope and dropped to the deck on his feet. He walked quickly toward the Quarterdeck, pulling the glass from his shirt and tossed it up to Middleboro who caught it. Callum gave him a wink and went to the starboard door, going in. He stopped at the galley and looked in.

“Sir?” Shem asked.

“Have you any coffee about, Shem?”

“I will bring it straight away, sir.” The man nodded. Callum proceeded on to the Great Cabin, going in the still open door.

“Ah, there you are, Quintan.” Crawford said.

“Arthur, what brings you here?” Callum asked closing the door behind him. Crawford got a good look at Callum now and frowned.

“You look like hell, Quintan.” Crawford said, “Have you slept?”

“No, I have not.” Callum said as he came to the table.

“Then I insist that you do, at least for a bit. You will be no good to anyone if you drop over with exhaustion.” Crawford said. Shem opened the door carrying a tray, “If that is coffee, you can take it back right now, Shem.” Crawford said. Shem stopped at the door, looking at him then Callum. Callum started to say something, but Crawford held up a finger, “Heed me.” He simply said and Callum stopped, “Do not force me to get something from my bag to make you sleep, Admiral.” Crawford said with a stern voice, he looked at Shem, “Take it back to the galley, Shem, now.”

“Aye, sir.” Shem said and backed out of the door, closing it as Crawford turned back on Callum.

“Wash yourself and then rest. I know of where we are and you have at least an hour or so until we are close.” Crawford said slowly and clearly and Callum knew the tone of it and what he meant with it. Callum sighed and relented. He went to the washbowl and poured water into it. He set the pitcher down and scooped water with his hands and bent, scrubbing his face, “I have set up the surgery on the Storage Deck, hopefully we won’t need it.”

“Is that what you came to tell me?” Callum asked as he pulled a cloth off the hook above the bowl.

“Partly.” Crawford said, “The other part is I wanted to tell you that I am still concerned about our Marine Captain. I don’t think he can do what he has told me about in boarding that pirate vessel. I cannot sanction it, Quintan.”

“I don’t really care for it myself, Arthur.”

“Then why, Quintan, you know he is going to die.”

“Who is going to die?” Thomas asked as he was standing in the doorway. Callum shifted his eyes and Crawford turned. Thomas came in and closed the door, “Who is going to die?” Thomas asked again firmly, “Damn it, somebody had better start talking.”

“We were just speaking of Christian.” Callum said quietly but firmly.

“I thought you said he was doing better?” Thomas asked as he bore down on Crawford, who averted Thomas’ eyes.

“That’s not what we were talking about, Thomas.” Callum said. Thomas looked at Callum, seeing the look on Callum’s face. Thomas shook his head as he realized what they must be saying.

“No.” Thomas said, still shaking his head, “I will not allow it. I am the Captain of this ship and I am telling you, I will not allow it.” Thomas said and pointed his finger directly at Callum.

“It was not my decision, Thomas, it was his.” Callum said softly. Thomas clenched his jaw and stepped up to Callum glaring intensely into his steel blue eyes.

“It was you, you put this idea into his head. It’s always you, Quintan.” Thomas said through clenched teeth.

“Perhaps it was, Thomas.” Callum said.

“If he dies, Quintan, only God himself can save you from me.” Thomas said. He turned and walked by a stunned Crawford, going to the cabin door and ripped it open with his good hand, walking out.

“Where is he going?” Crawford asked.

“To say his goodbyes.” Callum said above a whisper.

Callum opened his eyes as he focused on the ceiling of the Great Cabin, the underside of the deck of the Quarterdeck above. The ship was strangely silent to Callum. He could feel the slight sway of the haversack he was in, but there was nothing else to tell him what or where they were at the moment or how much time had actually passed with his sleep. Callum lifted and spread his legs to get out of the haversack. He put one foot on the deck and swung out and stood fully. He stretched his back a bit. It had been quite some time since he had slept in a haversack, knowing it took a bit of time to get used to them, time he did not have. He straightened and let out a breath through his nose. There was a knock on the door.

“Enter.” Callum said. He looked in the direction of the door and saw Crawford standing there.

“I didn’t know if you were awake yet. You had better come and have a look for yourself.” Crawford said, standing out of the way of the door. Callum went quickly to him, “Up on deck.” Crawford said quietly. Callum walked quickly and went to the starboard doorway, opening it. He stepped out and saw the silent activity going on.

Marines were on deck, the entire company of them. The boats were being hauled up and out to go over the sides, both port and starboard. Callum knew they must be getting close to their destination and target. Christian was giving instructions it seemed to Lt. Caruthers as well as a Sergeant. Callum looked up at the railing of the Quarterdeck. Thomas was there but did not look in Callum’s direction, he was watching what was going on, on the deck below. Sommers was on the other side of Thomas at the rail. Callum looked toward Christian, who looked toward Callum briefly and gave him a nod and went on with his instructions. Callum went up the starboard stairs and reached the deck. Hands were tipped toward him from members of the crew as Callum approached slowly, looking forward as he came. He could see the grey of the sky, the clouds were filling in even more and there was now a wet feel in the air about them.

“A word if I may, Captain.” Callum said. He saw Thomas tense a bit but Callum knew he couldn’t refuse him. Thomas turned and went with Callum as they walked to the aft rail out of earshot from the others, “How close are we?”

“Less than an hour.” Thomas said flatly. Callum scanned the young face of his dear friend, his brother.

“I understand your anger, Thomas, believe me I do.” Callum said. Thomas turned on him, looking him directly in the eye.

“Do you?” Thomas asked with a low growl. Callum nodded.

“Did you talk with him?” Callum asked.

“You know I did, and it didn’t go well either. He can be as stubborn as you are, Quintan, even more so when he thinks he’s right.” Thomas said with clenched teeth and anger.

“It makes sense, Thomas, if you think about it.”

“Does it? What if the roles were reversed here, Quintan, what if it were Dustin that was going to do this? How would you feel then?” Thomas asked.

“Probably as you do, Thomas, in fact I’m sure I would feel the same way.” Callum said, “You know what he is capable of, Thomas, what his abilities are.”

“Yes.” Thomas said above a whisper as looked toward his love, “But he is not quite himself yet. He is still recovering and that concerns me more than anything.” Thomas said and looked at Callum again, “Add to that, the way he talked about this to me, he knows he’s going to die, Quintan.”

“He may prevail in this, Thomas, we may all prevail in this.” Callum said, “Don’t give up on him yet.”

“I know that with having command, there are times that you might have to order men to their deaths. I pray that this is not one of those times, Quintan.” Thomas said. His eyes were starting to well a bit.

“I pray that as well, Thomas.” Callum said, “If we act quickly enough in this action, we might be able to assist them.” Callum said and looked over the aft rail and saw the still approaching ship and smiled briefly.

“Who do you think they are?” Thomas asked as he looked in the same direction.

“Friends.” Callum said, “I don’t think we are alone in this now.”

“You know who they are.” Thomas said with surprise. Callum nodded as he still looked out.

“Alistair Stewart.” Callum said.

“Triborne?” Thomas asked, “Then let us wait for them, we will take them together.”

“No.” Callum said.

“Why not?” Thomas asked.

“He may have different orders. Remember they signaled earlier.” Callum said as he looked at Thomas, who nodded, “I am not quite certain what he signaled and it worries me.”

“You said you had the full support of the Admiralty.”

“I do as well as of the Diplomatic Service, but he may have been told something else.” Callum said.

“But you trust him, or at least you did when we sailed together before.” Thomas said.

“That was then, this is different.” Callum said.

“You are gambling with our lives, Quintan.” Thomas said, “Especially with Christians’.”

“You may be right, Thomas, but if I know Alistair as well as I think I do, he might join in with us regardless. A gamble, I know.” Callum said softly.

“I hope you’re right.” Thomas said, “I’ve seen Stewart fight, he’s as relentless as you are.”

“Captain Tomlin.” The voice said. Callum and Thomas looked toward it. Christian stood there in his full glory with his brilliant uniform.

“Captain Holt.” Thomas said.

“We are ready to load the boats, sir.” Christian said.

“Very well.” Thomas said, fighting his emotions that were trying to take over. He cleared his throat, “Mr. Sommers.”

“Sir?”

“Standby to lower away.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said and looked out on the deck below, “Lower away!” He called out.

“Admiral.” Christian said and gave a nod toward Callum.

“Good luck to you, Captain.” Callum said.

“And to you as well, sir.” Christian said. He looked at Thomas, “Captain.” He said softly. Thomas fought tears and clenched. Thomas could only nod. Christian turned and went to the stairs, going down them and went across the deck to rejoin his company of Marines.

“Steady.” Callum whispered. Thomas nodded and walked to the railing. The boats were lowered, the Marines divided, half going to port, the other half to starboard. Caruthers went with the starboard boat, Christian to port. The boats were secured and the Marines went over the side and loaded with their equipment. The deck seemed empty without the red tunics of them, leaving only the crew and the blue of some of the officers.

A mist began to settle about them as the boats were slowly cast off and fell back behind Dover now. Lines were secured to the aft railing as the boats were now being towed behind the grand lady that they belonged to. Thomas stayed where he was, looking out ahead over the bows of his ship. Callum looked over and saw the Marines were settling into their being towed, steering the boats with the tillers to follow in line almost side by side now. Christian looked up toward the stern and gave a slight wave to Callum, who raised his hand in reply. Callum looked beyond toward the ship that was still following. He turned and went to the forerail. His shirt and vest were starting to soak from the mist.

“The wind is dropping a bit, sir.” Sommers said as he was looking up.

“We will maintain canvas that is set.” Thomas said.

“Aye, aye, sir.”

“Deck there!” Came the voice from above. All eyes lifted toward the voice, “Bristol Harbor ahead!”

“How many ships?!” Thomas asked loudly.

“Eight, sir!” The voice called back after a long moment.

“How do we know which ship it is?” Thomas asked Callum without looking at him, “Besides her size.”

“It has a great bird spread out at the bowsprit, four masted, and is Spanish built.” Callum said.

“Glass.” Thomas called. A glass was handed toward him, “Give it to the Admiral.” He said flatly. Callum leaned back and took it. He extended it and raised it to his eye, “Do you see it?”

“Not yet.” Callum said as he scanned the horizon slowly then he stopped, “That could be it right there.” Callum said softly. He pointed with one finger, “A point off to port, there is a ship anchored it seems.” Callum said and lifted the glass again, “There are no sails. She must be anchored for certain.”

“Should we correct our course?” Thomas asked softly.

“No, not yet. It may give us a bit of time with our turn if it is indeed the one.” Callum said.

“That will put us into the wind and slow us.” Thomas said.

“It will also allow for more shots to be given by us.” Callum said.

“Mr. Sommers.” Thomas said.

“Sir.”

“Have the guns loaded and cover the strikers against the rain that is coming.” Thomas said.

“Shall I beat to quarters, sir?” Sommers asked.

“No, do it quietly and keep the gun ports closed. We will not tip our hand yet.” Thomas said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said. He walked quickly to the port stairs to go down.

“You are becoming a bit sneaky, Thomas.” Callum whispered as he lifted the glass again.

“It comes from spending so much time with you.” Thomas said just as quiet and Callum smirked as he looked through the glass, “Is that your ship?”

“I still can’t quite make it out from this distance. This mist isn’t helping matters any.” Callum said. He lowered the glass.

“I wonder how they are doing out there?” Thomas asked as he gripped the railing with his good hand. Callum looked down at it and saw him clenching it tight.

“Would you like me to have a look for you?” Callum asked as he looked forward again.

“No.” Thomas said, “I hate waiting.”

“I know you do. It won’t be long now.”

“What if that isn’t your ship?” Thomas asked.

“Then we will sail in a bit closer to the harbor.”

“I hope they are not tied close to another inside the harbor.” Thomas said.

“I hope that as well. It might make maneuvering a bit more difficult if they are.” Callum said, lifting the glass, “But I was told they were just outside of the harbor.” Callum looked over his shoulder toward the ship that was approaching from behind, gauging their distance but he was losing sight of them with the grey of the sky blending with the water on the horizon. He looked forward again but upward, seeing the wind was dropping off even more now, the sails going slacker with their billow, “We’re losing too much wind.” Callum said softly.

“Perhaps we should correct our course just a bit in case it is your ship, before we lose the wind entirely.” Thomas said. Callum nodded, “Dorfman, half point to port if you please.” Thomas said over his shoulder.

“Aye, aye, sir.” The older man said and rolled the wheel, “Half point, sir.”

“Very well.” Thomas said and saw Dover respond, rolling over just a bit. The ship that was ahead was growing in size but slowly as the wind dropped away and Dover eased herself in the water. Callum lifted his glass again.

“I can’t see a damned thing from here.” He growled and collapsed the glass. He moved quickly and went to the starboard stairs and went down. He went toward the bow, the men were working to load the guns as quickly and as quietly as they could. Callum went to the bowsprit and lay against the rail next to the foremast on the port side, extending his glass and putting it to his eye. He looked and he saw it, the ship. Slowly he looked the ship over moving the glass from stern to bow. He narrowed his eye a bit and he saw what he needed. He collapsed his glass and stayed there, thinking.

“Is that the ship, sir?” Middleboro asked as he stood at Callum’s feet behind him. Callum rolled a bit and looked back at him,

“It is indeed, Mr. Middleboro.” Callum said and went to get up as the young man was looking forward. Callum got up and stood next to him, looking aft toward Thomas, “Prepare your gun crews, Isaac, and keep it quiet.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” The young officer said.

“I will join you on the Gun Deck when the action starts.” Callum said.

“Thank you, sir.” Middleboro said before turning to follow his orders. Callum walked back to the Quarterdeck, going up the stairs. He handed the glass to a crewman there.

“And?” Thomas asked.

“That is our target.” Callum said and Thomas looked at him.

“There’s something isn’t there?” Thomas asked. Callum nodded as he looked forward, “What is it?”

“I didn’t see any boats on her upper deck.” Callum said.

“They may be ashore, resupplying.”

“Or something far worse.” Callum said.

“They couldn’t, not yet, don’t you think?” Thomas said, “Do not think the worst, Quintan. Henry is safe, I know it.”

“I pray you’re right, Thomas. Dustin is capable, but if he is outnumbered…” Callum said.

“Quintan.” Thomas said and turned to look at him fully.

“There is something else.” Callum said.

“What?” Thomas asked.

“Their gun ports are open.” Callum said and Thomas went wide eyed.

“They know we’re coming.” Thomas said. He looked forward and could see the large ship clearer now, “But they’re still anchored. Aren’t they?”

“It looks it.” Callum said.

“They can’t repel an attack fully if they’re still at anchor.” Thomas said.

“They might.”

“What do you want to do?” Thomas asked. Callum just looked at him. Thomas knew the answer to that fully even as he asked it. He rolled his eyes a bit, “Stupid question, I know. Alright.” Thomas looked up and saw the sails slacking, “Dorfman, stand by to make a hard turn to port.”

“Aye, aye, sir.”

“Get me in as close as you can, Captain.” Callum said loud enough for the older man at the wheel to hear and understand.

“As you say, Admiral.” Thomas said, tipping his hand as Callum turned. He went quickly to the stairs, going down them across the deck gong for the large open hatchway to go below. He saw Sommers and Darin Talon looking at him.

“Wait for my signal, Mr. Sommers. Have your men stand by at their guns. Run out when I give the word.” Callum said as he went to the ladder to go down.

“Aye, aye, sir.” Sommers said, tipping his hand, “Starboard gun crews, stand by at your guns!” He called out. The men moved and followed the orders. Callum went below and saw Isaac Middleboro and young Palmer there amongst the men.

“Mr. Middleboro, take the forward gun crews, I’ll take amidships and you, Mr. Palmer, will take the aft crews.” Callum said.

“Aye, aye, sir.” They said together.

“Gun crews!” Callum said loudly, “Find and take out their guns as best you can! Make each shot count!”

“Aye, aye.” The men called back.

“We will open gun ports when I give the word and not before!” Callum called out as he looked around him, “Stand by!” He said, knowing he could be heard by most above him on the Maindeck, “Remember, reload on the four count!” Callum called out. He looked about as all hands did what they were supposed to do. He needed to know where they were. He grabbed the ropes of the ladder and went up, looking forward and to the port side just above the deck. He saw the large ship and could now hear voices as Dover was closing on their bow. It was now or never Callum thought, he looked toward the Quarterdeck and caught Thomas’ eye and nodded. Thomas looked briefly into the sails, seeing the wind and what it was doing in the canvas above.

“Hard over, Dorfman!” Thomas called as the older man spun the wheel again and again, “Aloft! Adjust sail!” Thomas called as those few remaining hands went to work, to roll the sails and grab lines to move the canvas and catch what wind there was. Callum watched the turn slowly happen and could hear the crew’s voices on the other ship, all trying to react to what was now happening, “Run up our colors!” Thomas called loudly. One of the hands jumped to the aft locker, pulling out the flag of the ship, the large and proud Union Jack, quickly tying it off and sending it up over the aft rail. Cheers could be heard from the Marines aft and Callum leaped off the ladder and landed on the Gun Deck.

“Open gun ports!” He almost screamed, his chest pounding as he watched this crew go to it, “Run out!” He screamed louder, holding up his hand, watching the crew pull on their ropes, the guns rolling out, he could hear it over his head as well, his orders being duplicated above, the sound of the rollers of the guns against wood of the deck overhead, “FIRE!” He screamed even louder and every gun of Dover’s starboard side erupted at the exact same time.