At least she hoped the police were there to guard them. From what she could see, there were four uniformed men among the horde. But was four enough to keep them safe? Or were they waiting like the others, intending to take a bride the instant the women stepped onto land?

Ann tucked her hand into the crook of Mercy’s arm. “I ain’t never seen goings-on like this.”

Mercy wanted nothing more than to propel the Forward around, return to the Tynemouth, and climb back aboard. It didn’t matter that she hadn’t been on firm ground in over three months. It didn’t matter she wanted a bath, needed to wash her hair, and longed to launder her clothing. The realization of the men awaiting them was enough to send even the stoutest souls back to England.

“At least they want us here.” Kip dared to smile and wave back at the crowd.

Mercy understood the desire to be accepted and loved. All their lives they’d only ever been a burden, not just to their families but also to their country. Maybe Kip was right. Maybe here, in this new land, they’d finally be wanted.

The HMS Forward dropped anchor in the middle of James Bay, and shortly afterward a longboat pulled beside their vessel to begin ferrying the passengers ashore. The women resisted having to be the first to climb down the makeshift rope ladder into the waiting boat. Finally, given little choice, Mercy and the other poor women descended and huddled together on the benches.

“I shall accompany you.” Mercy could hear Joseph talking to Mr. Scott on the deck above them. “You may need another escort.”

“Thank you for your kind concern, Lord Colville,” Mr. Scott replied. “You are most gracious to offer us your assistance. However, there is no need to trouble yourself as the committee has assured us the gathering will be orderly.”

“You can see for yourself the men are quite rowdy,” Joseph said bluntly. “God forbid that my services will be necessary. Nevertheless, I shall attend the women and be at the ready.”

Mercy heard no more discussion after that. As the longboat dipped under the newcomers climbing inside, she sensed Joseph’s presence not far behind her. Though she might never see him again after today, she wouldn’t forget him or his kindness.

Within minutes, the men at the oars started rowing to shore. The cheering and whistling escalated. Some of the women were beginning to lose their fear and called back to the men, only to have Mr. Scott rebuke them to stay silent.

It was difficult to see Victoria beyond the crowds. From the little Mercy could glimpse, the town had an openness about it that was much different from the crowded alleys and streets of London. The area was cleared of trees, with homes and buildings lining wide dirt roads. Everything appeared to be new and freshly painted.