To Have & To Hold by Mary Johnson Chapter 36 Page 7

in the great room, where the Governor and those of the Council who are safe here with us are advising together. Let’s descend; you’ve not eaten, and the good sack will give you strength. Wilt come?”

“Ay,” I answered, “but tell me the news as we go. I have been gone ten days, — faith, it seems ten years! There have no ships sailed, Master Pory? The George is still here?” I looked him full in the eye, for a sudden guess at a possible reason for his confusion had stabbed me like a knife.

“Ay,” he said, with a readiness that could scarce be feigned. “She was to have sailed this week, it is true, the Governor fearing to keep her longer. But the Esperance, coming in yesterday, brought news which removed his Honor’s scruples. Now she’ll