Twenty-two-year-old Jacob Tomkins is sentenced to seven years’ labour in the fledgling colony of Sydney Town, Australia. The voyage across the sea is arduous. He is travelling with mean, street-hardened criminals, some of whom would like to use him for their pleasure. Fortunately he meets Peter, who takes Jacob under his wing. Together they find moments of pleasure amid the drudgery of the voyage. They share their hopes and dreams, and finally declare their love for each other upon the eve of their arrival in Sydney Town -- a place where the currency is rum, distilled and controlled by the powerful military. But what will happen once they disembark? The chances of remaining together are slim. A lot can happen in seven years, especially when Jacob’s new master takes a liking to him. Is their love strong enough to survive the ravages of time? Can they survive the rigors of their sentences?

Across the Sea

“How many brothers and sisters have you got?”


A gentle smile appeared on Jacob’s face. “I’ve already told you about Annie. She’s the only girl. Then there’s Bertie, who’s six, and Thomas, who’s eight, and Horatio, who’s eleven. Or maybe twelve. He would have had a birthday by now. And then Jack and me.”


“That’s quite a family,” said Peter. “And your father?”


Jacob’s smile evaporated. “A drunkard. Towards the end, at least. He did right by us for most of my life then the drink got to him. Rum when he was flush and ale when he wasn’t. Same result.” He shook his head mournfully. “I don’t know what’ll become of them.”


Peter rubbed Jacob’s leg, comforting him.


“I don’t know what to tell you. All I know for sure is there’s nothing you can do for them either way. Worrying won’t help them so what’s the use in losing sleep over it?”


Jacob gave a half-nod and shrugged. “That’s true, but it’s easy to say, isn’t it? Not so easy to do.”


Chapter 9