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

“Remember, Peter’s coming today,” he said, pulling open the curtains at the bedroom window


“I’m not likely to forget,” Jasper replied. “Are you still taking him for a picnic?”


“I said I would,” said Jacob. “I’ll come back in a while for the breakfast tray.”


“Polly, I haven’t told Jasper this, but I’m going to talk to Peter today about going to live with him.”


“I thought you and the master had resolved your differences.”


“We have. But I think it’s best if I leave so the master can begin to heal what needs to be healed.” He inhaled deeply, trying to keep his emotions under control. It was difficult to think about saying goodbye to Polly. “Besides,” he continued, more cheerfully, “Mister Prewitt mightn’t allow it. What does he want with another mouth to feed? There mightn’t be room for me, either. Anyway, Peter should be getting his Certificate of Freedom any day so it might be best to stay where I am.” He sighed. “This is why I have to talk to Peter.”


Chapter 53