She didn’t know what Joseph expected her to say in response. She was born into her station, and he born into his. There wasn’t anything that could be done to change the way of things. “Maybe we’re all like ships,” she finally offered. “When we’re born we’re put out to sea and can’t always control our fate or destination. We have only to ride out the journey as best we can.”

As soon as the words left her mouth, she hurried to Sarah’s bedside, the heat of embarrassment creeping up her neck and into her cheeks.

“Perhaps,” he responded. “But having a friend along for the journey helps greatly in easing the burden. Would you not agree?”

“Aye, that I would.” When she chanced a look at him, his brow slanted up. He didn’t have to say any more for her to know he was asking about their friendship and what had become of it.

What had become of it? Had she let fear and shame stand in the way? Maybe theirs was an unusual friendship. But surely there were no rules that would prevent their being friends, especially for the short time they had left aboard the Tynemouth.

She offered him a smile.

When he smiled in return, she felt as if she’d been given a treasure, one she’d cherish long after their ships parted ways.

At the soft tap against the door, Mercy sat up. For a moment, she stared at the walls, unable to figure out where she was. As her focus moved to Sarah lying on the bed in front of her, Mercy released a breath.

She’d fallen asleep in the chair she’d pulled up next to Sarah. Apparently she was more tired than she’d realized. She reached out her hand to Sarah’s forehead, only to feel hot skin. The poor girl was still burning up.

Silently, Mercy berated herself for slumbering. She needed to get more water and continue to cool Sarah’s flesh. But even as she stood, she fought back a yawn.

Another knock came then, echoing loud in the stateroom.

Mercy froze.

What if Mrs. Robb had come this time to order her back to her cabin? Mrs. Robb was not quite as awed by Joseph as Mr. Scott and wouldn’t hesitate to force her to return if that’s what she wanted. With Joseph gone to see to his other patients, who would defend her?

Actually, she wasn’t breaking any rules by helping to take care of Sarah, and surely Joseph had explained by now that with the threat of smallpox, Mercy needed to stay with the sick girl. Yet as she mulled over the excuses in her mind, her heart quavered.