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

“Since you’re so eager to find out, I’d best tell you,” he said, lowering his voice as he continued. “Listen to me.” He leaned in towards Jacob. “I used to be you. I knew the minute I saw him ride in with you at his side what was going on. I was the master’s manservant before you. He got me when I was barely twenty. I worked inside, giving him his special baths and all. You know what I’m talking about. I helped him dress. Helped him out in other ways, too. He got me to sleep in his bed with him. Told me he loved me. That I was his special boy. Then when I started to fill out, got hairier, more man than boy, he sent me out here. Banished me.” He shrugged. “No matter. I’m twenty-six and in a few months my sentence will be up and then both of you will be rid of me.”


“I don’t want to be rid of you,” said Jacob. “I only ever wanted to be friends.”


Chapter 30