Around the Esquimalt Lagoon flocks of birds perched on boulders or high in the trees, floated in the calm water, and graced the sky overhead. One of the other women had informed them that Vancouver Island was known for its migrating birds, that in the autumn they’d see ducks, geese, swans, loons, herons, and many others. The only one Mercy could name with certainty was the sea gull, which seemed to be the same in this new world as it was back in England.

At midmorning, Mercy still couldn’t tear herself away from the rail. She let the gentle breeze wash over her with the scents of pine and soil. And she relished the music of the bird calls that had serenaded them since their arrival.

If only she could spend a few moments with Joseph, he’d share everything he knew about the area. He’d likely read all about the birds and would pull out his spyglass just as he’d done in the Falkland Islands and help her learn how to identify them. He’d tell her about the trees and the names of the mountain ranges. And he’d explain the history of the area, including why the naval base was necessary here in Esquimalt, so close to Victoria.

She glanced across the deck to where he stood with some of the welcoming committee members who had boarded the Tynemouth a short while ago. He was attired in a suit she’d never seen him wear before and looked more dashing than usual. She had to admit, she was relieved he hadn’t left the ship yet.

Their vessel was too large to sail directly into the shallow waters surrounding Victoria. So earlier in the morning, the ship’s passengers had been ferried to Victoria, including those from steerage. While watching groups leaving in smaller steamboats, the women had grumbled and talked about jumping ship. After all, they’d been on the Tynemouth for over a hundred days and hadn’t been allowed off once.

But Mrs. Robb had quieted the complaints with news that a welcoming party would be arriving on board today, and that the Victoria Female Immigration Committee was making arrangements for their group to come ashore tomorrow.

The women had cheered. Although Mercy was excited about the prospect of soon being on land, a quiet misery had settled over her at the realization she would never see Joseph again.

She had no reason to wallow in their parting. She hadn’t spoken to him and had hardly seen him since she’d left his cabin over two weeks ago after Sarah’s death. And he hadn’t sought her out. Not that she’d expected him to. Most certainly not. Such a notion was just as outlandish as the idea that he might want to be with her.

“You have my highest regard and affection.”