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

“This is my study,” said Jasper. “You’ll have no cause to go in there except to come and get me should I have guests.”


Further along the corridor were three more doors.


“All of these are bedrooms. These first two doors are guest bedrooms and mine is at the end.”


He opened the door to his bedroom and entered.


“This is where I usually like to take my breakfast,” said Jasper. “Slovenly, I know, but there you have it. Knock first and then bring me in my breakfast tray. Open the curtains before you leave. Half an hour later you’ll return, help me to dress if I’m going out for the day, and then take the breakfast tray back to the kitchen.”


Chapter 20