Mrs. Moresby apparently took that as her cue to continue. “The first thing the committee plans to make known is the policy regarding marriage of the bride-ship women. While it is our sincerest hope for all the women to eventually become wives and mothers, we don’t think it’s in anyone’s best interests to rush the process. The marriages will be stronger and more enduring if the women have the necessary time to choose husbands wisely, rather than be pushed to decide by a deadline. Wouldn’t you agree, Mr. Scott?”

At Mrs. Moresby’s declaration, Mercy’s attention jumped to Joseph, only to find him watching her. The sincerity of his expression told her everything—that he’d been the one to reach out to Mrs. Moresby today, to orchestrate the interviews with the other bride-ship women, and to coordinate the meeting of the committee. He’d done it all for her, to protect her and to fulfill his promise to help her be free, even though he wouldn’t get anything out of it for himself.

Warmth bubbled up inside Mercy. She wanted to rush across the room, fling her arms about him, and embrace him. He was the kindest, sweetest, most considerate man she’d ever known.

Mr. Scott swallowed several times before managing to speak again. “No, madam, I do not agree. I’m afraid you have no inkling of what you’re dealing with when it comes to these women. They are uneducated and unqualified to know what is in their best interests. They need the guidance of informed and well-meaning men like myself in order to step into their new roles as wives and mothers.”

Mrs. Moresby shook her head, her wide hat swaying to and fro like the ship in a storm. “After speaking with the women, I’ve concluded they are both smart and hardworking. Given time, they are more than capable of picking their own husbands. If some of them decide they aren’t suited to married life, they will most certainly contribute to the welfare of the colony in other ways.”

Mr. Scott wheeled to face Mercy, his expression growing even more severe. “This is your doing. You used your wiles and seductive nature to get your way.”

“Mr. Scott,” Joseph said sternly, his fists balled, his body rigid. “Say no more, sir, lest you inflict further shame upon yourself.”

“I’ll have you know,” Mrs. Moresby interjected, “Miss Wilkins wasn’t involved in any of the discussions today. She had no knowledge of the committee’s meeting. But she, like all the others, should be free to make her own decisions regarding her future. And I trust that she will make the right decision.”

Mrs. Moresby leveled a look at Mercy, one that censured her and implored her at the same time. What was Mrs. Moresby asking her to do?