EL LOBO DEL MAR

[Welsh Wench]

Honour stood by the French doors and looked out at the ocean. The rain gently splattered on the glass panes.She sighed.
Jack came up behind her and put his arms around her. She leaned back into him.
"A farthing for your thoughts, love."
Her gaze never left the water.
"Just...thinking."
"...about?"
Quietly she said,"Home. Those we love and those we left behind."
He gently stroked her hair. "I know. I sometimes think back to my summers in Scotland with my grandparents."
"Do you ever get... well, homesick?"
Jack held her close. "Why would I? My home and everything I could ever want is right here. But this is more than simple homesickness for lobscows and bara brith, isn't it?"
: Honour nodded. "I can't stop thinking about that chest that arrived from Megan and Daffyd. Something must have happened, something bad, for them to have sent it to us."
Jack tried to allay her fears. "No news is good news, darling. I am sure that Daffyd was taking precautions. And didn't Megan say they would be here to visit us next summer?"
Honour turned to Jack and buried her face in his shirt."I....I miss Megan so much, Jack."
"There, there, love. I know you do. I miss them too. But I'm certain we'll get word soon that will explain why they sent those things here." He gently stroked her back to reassure her. "You know how horrid the post service is from England. They're firm believers in letting the cart come before the horse."
She nodded. "I know. I worry. Dylan and Morwenna...I'm sure you're right. I just worry so about them. They were so unsure about what would happen with that awful Cromwell in power."
"I'll tell you what, darling. The next time I'm in town, I'll ask if anyone has heard word from England. Surely someone has recent news to share. How does that sound to you?"
She nodded, and forced a smile. "Yes, that would help. And hopefully be a relief."


Jack smiled and kissed her cheek. But inwardly he felt conflicted. He had already heard news from England, the last time he was in Bridgetown. Things were not going well at all back home. Cromwell's reign of terror was making life oppressive for everyone, particularly the very poor and the very wealthy. He wasn't at all surprised to see the crate from Wales. He only hoped that Honour's family had made it out safely.

Honour turned to Jack. "You know....the land between us and that meadow around the bend is for sale."
Jack nodded."So I heard."
She absentmindedly played with the button on his shirt.
"I was thinking....it may be a good investment for us."
Jack tried to hide his smile."You mean it may be good pasture ground to raise....welsh cobs?"

She tilted her head. "Well...you know that Daffyd knows horse breeding."
"I've been looking at his notes and books. He's on the right track. And he does love horses."
"So will you buy that land, Jack?"
He put his hands on her shoulders. "What, just like that?"
"It won't go to waste, will it? I mean, even if we left it fallow...."
Jack played up a thoughtful look. "Hmmm... If Daffyd and Megan were to show up, and if he had some cracking good advice concerning the horses, it would be a crying shame not to have the land available to act quickly on it."
A broad smile broke across Honour's face. "Then you'll do it? You'll buy the land?"
"Why not? The worst that could happen is we have to open it for pasturage at some point. And it will give Zara more room to ride once she's of age."
"Jack, you will spoil her."
"Of course I shall! And I'll spoil you too, given half a chance. Have you given any thought to riding again?"She sighed. "Not really. I'm just trying to get my bearings and figure out what I want to do in our future."
"It's been my experience that the best place to do serious thinking is on the deck of a ship. The second best place is on the back of a horse. You've told be before how you loved to ride when you were a girl. Give it some thought, at least. Unless you're afraid to leave me looking after Zara," he said with a wink.
She put her arms around Jack and looked up at him. "Of course not! I trusted you on the ship and I can trust you on dry land."
"Then I'll start making enquiries about the land this week. With any luck, I can finish the transaction without dealing with that toad Culley."
"has there been any more trouble from him?"
Jack sighed heavily. "No, thank heavens. But I don't trust that man as far as I can throw him. I keep hoping for the day he gets run off the island or replaced, or both."
"I heard his daughter is a real beauty and as spoiled as she is rich. Lenore I think her name is."
"Has he now? I hadn't heard that. I must be slipping. Time was, a tavern maid couldn't break a bodice lace without me knowing about it!"
She arched her eyebrow. "And from what I have heard, that bodice lacing was a first hand account."
"Now, that was just an ugly rumour, probably started by whoever was on the other end of that lace," he said with a rakish smile.
"You once told me 'Honour, every tavern story, every fable, every myth has at least a grain of truth at its centre.' "
"That's true, I told you that. And it's usually the case."
"Oh, now it's usually?"
"Yes, usually. Unless it's one of those old stories that makes you arch your eyebrow at me, then it's completely false."
She looked dubiously at him.
"Uh huh. Then why do I still hear stories about the eighteen months we were separated?"
He kissed her and said, "I was just keeping in practice for you."
She patted his cheek.
"Well, if so then you just got better. And before you try to put that notion into action, I am hungry. Mrs. Avery made blueberry scones."
"Ah...my second favorite thing in the morning!"
She smacked his chest and rolled her eyes.
"You are a bad man, Jack Wolfe."
He slapped her bottom as she walked out the door.
"And you love it!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Zara sat on Jack's lap as he broke off pieces of his scone to feed her and helped her sip milk from her cup.
Honour never would have believed the fierce pirate of a few months ago could be brought to his knees by a toddler. She felt a pang of guilt for not readily agreeing to his desire to expand the family.
A part of her selfishly didn't want Zara to share him with a sibling....not yet.

"Miss Honour?" Mrs. Avery snapped her out of her reverie.
"Yes, Mrs Avery?" She put down her tea cup.
"Someone is at the door. Looks distinguished."
"Want me to see what it is about, darling?" Jack looked up at her.
"No--Zara is content being where she is. I'll handle it. Probably the vicar looking for clothes for the indigent."
She walked into the parlour. A man was admiring a painting on the wall. He was of average height. As he turned around, Honour could see he had black hair with a touch of grey at the temples. Snapping brown eyes and a well trimmed goatee and moustache graced his face. His frock coat was black and of the finest linen with matching breeches. A shirt of snow white silk and e carried a gold-tipped walking stick.
Her first thoughts were, 'this is NOT the vicar!'
"I'm Mrs. Wolfe. May I help you?"
The man's face registered surprised for a second as a grin spread over his face.
"Well, I'll be damned!" He punctuated the expletive with a firm tap on the marble floor.
The man looked her up and dow."Well, well,well! I heard the kid got married but I didn't expect to see he had married my long-lost card dealer. Varlet and Vixen lost a lot when you left, darling."
A puzzled look crossed her face. Then she heard Jack behind her say, "I'll be damned too!"
The man took Honour's hand, merriment in his eyes.

"Captain Iron Will Harkness at your service, Madame!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Honour gave Jack a puzzled look, then turned back to Harkness.
"I- I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage, sir," she stammered.
"Just as I prefer it," he said with a charming smile that only seemed to unsettle her more. "William Harkness, proprietor of the Varlet and Vixen and your former employer."
"I don't recall ever seeing you there."
"I fount it best to let Amos run things. It leaves me free for other pursuits. Jack, you seem surprised to see me!"
"Hell, yes," Jack chuckled. "I thought you were dead!"
"I'll do you one better. I visited your grave. Twice."
"Ah yes, that. I do miss those boots. Took me forever to break in a new pair. I never knew you were so sentimental, Will."
"Hardly," replied Harkness. "The first time was to pay my respects. The second, I was simply making sure. And still, you managed to surprise me!"
"I can understand the tavern," interrupted Honour. "But how do you know one another?"
Jack put a steadying hand on hand on her shoulder. "My darling, this is the man who turned me to piracy."
"Oh, tosh," said Harkness with a dismissive wave of the hand. "The pirate was always there. I simply teased him out of that high-minded and stodgy shell you had him trapped in. Now, are we going to stand here in the entryway all evening, or is there a place we can sit and reminisce like civilised people? Preferably with libations, the finer the better."
"Still direct as always, eh?" Jack motioned toward his study. "This way, Captain Harkness!"
"Why, thank you, Captain Wolfe!"

"Jack, may I have a moment?" Honour asked.
"Don't mind me, I believe I can manage," said Harkness. He bowed slightly to Honour before proceeding to the study.
"What is it, darling?" asked Jack. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
"I'm fine. You're the one who's had his part of his past show up out of nowhere and stroll into his study. The question is, are you all right?"
"Oh, never better! I'm dying to find out how he's been getting along all this time." He smiled at the concerned look on her face. "Really, Honour, I'm good. A bit shocked, yes, but good."
"If you say so. Where is Zara?"
"I left her with Mrs. Avery."
"Then I'll go check on her. It will give you two sea dogs a chance to catch up."

Jack walked to the door to his study and paused. Will Harkness was standing with his back the door, drumming his fingers on head of his cane as he leisurely rifled through the papers on Jack's desk. After a few moments, Jack cleared this throat.
"Yes? Come on in."
"Why, thank you, Will. It's not every day I ask permission to enter my own domain."
"My apologies," said Will, still looking at the papers. "I forget you're not the rowdy young pup under my care any more. Old habits, you know."
"Can I get you that drink whilst you're reading?"
"Yes, please," Harkness replied, refusing to take the hint. "Sugar cane, horses, land... Ah! This is more like it. An inventory of condemned goods. There's life in you yet."
Jack handed him a glass of brandy. "You seem surprised."
"Concerned is more like it. Some people take their pardons too literally."
"I still have a hand in things, Will. But I have to maintain an air of respectability."
"Respectability, eh? What's next? Governor Jack Wolfe?"
"That's quite a leap. You know I hate politics."
"Good. Keep it that way. You're no monarch's dog."
"But I've been mistaken for a pup."
"Touché. I deserved that one." Harkness settled back in the leather divan. Scanning the full-wall bookcase, he pointed at the three golden idols Jack had carefully placed just out of reach. "Those statues. Solid gold?"
"As near as I can tell, yes. Just under ten ponds apiece."
"Nice haul. Ugly as hell, though. They'd be better served melted down."
"I'm not done with them yet."
Harkness smiled knowingly. "Ah, I see. Then they're what I thought they are."
"You do? Enlighten me."

"Mrs. Avery, could you watch Zara just a moment longer? I want to make coffee for Jack and our guest."
"That I will, Mrs. Wolfe. You're much better at making that Dutch concoction than I am, anyway. Here you go, Zara. A lovely cookie for you!"
"Are those the ones with chocolate spun through them? Mrs. Avery, you'll spoil my daughter to death!"
"She's not but a wee slip of a thing, Mrs. Wolfe. I think she can do with a bit of spoiling. It's less than the doting her father puts on her!"
"Yes, well, Jack is the model father, I'll give you that."
Suddenly, the kettle boiled over violently.
"Mrs. Avery, could you help me?" asked Honour.
Mrs. Avery rushed over to help. Zara sat quietly on the floor, happily munching on a bite of cookie. But the little girl spied Evie the cat prowling the hallway, and within moments she was on her feet toddling after the cat.

"They must be the spoils from those accursed scrolls you where so hell-bent on deciphering," said Harkness.
Jack arched an eyebrow, then twirled his drink for time. "Scrolls? What scrolls?"
Harkness sat stone-faced for a moment, then flashed that quick smile that said 'You're annoying me, but I'll tolerate it for now.'
"The scrolls you found after opening your mystery chest on that strange maze island. You know, the scrolls you told half the Caribbean about whilst you were tearing it apart, looking for your bonny bride."
"Oh, those scrolls," laughed Jack. "No, those were in with the scrolls. A bonus, you might say."
"And the scrolls? Are they connected to the statues?"
"I haven't figured that part out yet. But the scrolls are safe."
"Too safe, if you ask my opinion."
"It's not like you to be so circumspect, Will. What is it you're driving at?"
Harkness laughed. "As always, Jack, you are a puzzle. A complete cypher. The Jack Wolfe I knew, the one who was so single mindedly bent on finding the secret of that damned chest, he would have chased the mystery down by now. This Jack Wolfe... Oh well. Men change. They get soft."

"Now just one damned minute," Jack protested. "I've not grown soft. If you haven't noticed, I've done quite well. And my family, that's taken precedence. My priorities changes, that's all. One day, I will find uncover the mystery of the scrolls and the idols. I still have LaFourche to contact if I run into translation problems."
Harkness chuckled and shook his head. "You've forgotten my lessons. Keep your ear to the ground always. You've lost a resource."
"What?"
"You don't know? Armand LaFourche wandered off one day when his daughter wasn't looking. It was only a year ago. He strolled merrily into the ocean, singing to himself in a language no one could understand. He breathed in the waters, and was gone."
"Damn," sighed Jack. "I didn't think he was that mad."
"The hell you didn't. Everyone knew LaFourche was bonkers mad. It was only a matter of time before he hurt himself or worse."
"All right, so I'm on my own with the translation. It's not the end of the world."
Harkness leaned forward. "Just make sure you don't end up a relic like those god-awful statues before it gets done."

Jack opened his mouth to respond, but stopped when Zara came into the room, a cookie in one hand and little Evie tucked securely upside down under her arm.
"What's the matter, Jack? Cat got your tongue? That's not like... you... what's this?"
Harkness looked down to find out who or what was tugging on his pant leg. Zara had laid her cookie on the couch beside him, and she presented Evie to him, tail first.
"Kee!" she said proudly.
Evie gave Jack a baleful look as she hung there.

"Will Harkness, I give you Zara Wolfe. My daughter."

[Welsh Wench]

"Your daughter."
"Yes."
"You have a daughter."
"Do I stutter, Will? Isn't that what I said?"

At that Will Harkness burst out laughing. "You have a kid. I can't believe it."
Zara gazed at Will Harkness and handed him the kitten.
"What do I do, Jack?"
"I'd take the kitten if I were you. Zara is trying to show you what she has and she is letting you hold the kitten. And I would turn the cat around if you want to see her face."
Will made a face to Jack as he gingerly accepted Evie from Zara.
She climbed up on the couch that Will sat on and gazed at him with bright blue eyes.
Softly, Will said, "So....this is the reason that you gave up piracy?"
"One of them. Isn't she beautiful?"
Zara reached over and touched Will on the face and patted him.
He couldn't help but smile at her.
"Damn. And a girl, besides. I would have thought you would have sired nothing but sons. Any more around here?"
"Not yet. When I found Honour, I also found out she ran away to Wales to have the child."
"Ah....so the little lass is a citizen of the commonwealth of England!"

Zara broke off a piece of her cookie and offered it to Will.
"Zara Wolfe! Whatever are you doing?"

Honour stood in the doorway and in two strides she was over and picked Zara up off the couch.
"I am so sorry, Mr. Harkness. This child has a mind of her own and she got away before I could get the coffee prepared."
To Zara she scolded, "And you have gotten cat hair on Mr Harkness's fine clothes. And cookie crumbs!"
Zara's lower lip trembled.

Will said, "No, Mrs. Wolfe. It's fine. It is not often a young lady of such charm is willing to sit next to me."
Jack chuckled, "If she knew who you were, Will, she probably would go screaming and run behind her mother's skirt."
"Well, then it is a good thing she doesn't know then, isn't it?" Will retorted. "Let her stay here. I rather enjoy her company."

Honour looked from Will to Jack.
"If you are sure...."
Jack nodded. "She's fine. I'll make sure she doesn't desecrate ol' Iron Will's fancy duds."
"Jack, she is starting to get sleepy. If she gets cranky, send her back to me or better yet, rock her to sleep. I'll see you gentlemen in a while."

With that last comment, Will burst out laughing and couldn't stop.
"You....! In a rocking chair with a toddler on your lap! And what kind of lewd sea shanties do you sing her to sleep with?"
Jack started to laugh too. "No shanties but would you believe I have a repertoire of lullabies?"
Zara climbed down from the couch and toddled over to her father. He scooped her up and she nestled into his lap, laying her head on his chest. Automatically Jack began to rock her.
"Somehow, Mad Jack, this kind of suits you. Ironically, I had plans for your wife. Of course, it was before she was your wife."
"What do you mean?"
He leaned back. " I saw her when she was a tavern wench. Amos had been telling me about her, what a draw she was. And so one night I came in and observed her. She is a looker, I will grant you that! And she was light on her feet. One night, a pirate got too friendly with her so she grabbed the front of his pants and dumped an ale down them. Declared it would cool his ardor. Then she threatened to break her tray over his head if he persisted."
Jack chuckled, "Yep, that's my wife. But what is this about your designs on her?"
Harkness smiled. "You know I always a fool for blonde women. She was young, she was beautiful and I am charmed. But alas it was not to be. When I came in again Amos informed me she had married and turned in her resignation as it were. He neglected to tell me just who she wed. So I must say I was more than surprised when I heard through the information channels that Captain Mad Jack Wolfe had taken the vows and was giving up his life of roving. I had to see it for myself."

Zara yawned and snuggled closer to her father. Absent-mindedly he stroked her hair.
"So now you have seen it with your own eyes. And what, pray tell, has Captain Iron Will Harkness been doing all these years he seemed to have fallen off the face of the earth?"
Harkness smiled his enigmatic smile and said, "Tell me where you keep the good brandy and I will tell you tales not to be believed, Jack."

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"You always were quite the storyteller," said Jack. "I can't wait to hear this. The brandy is the second decanter on the left."
Harkness walked to a shelf in between the two massive bookcases and picked up the decanter. He pulled out the stopper and breathed in the vapour from the dark liquor.
"French! Very nice. I'll pour since your hands are full."
"Ever so kind of you," replied Jack.
"Now as soon as you tell me where the glasses are..."
"Right in front of you, Will."
"Pheh! Not these puny things. Where are the men's glasses?"
Jack shook his head. "Some things never change. In the cabinet below the shelf. Help yourself."
"Like I wouldn't?"
"I should have assumed."
Harkness retrieved two tall glasses and proceeded to fill them to nearly two inches from the top. He looked at the nearly empty decanter.
"There's more, yes? Otherwise this will be an early evening."
"Yes, Will, there's more. Now, spill it. What's the story?"

Will placed a glass in front of Jack, then settled into one of the plush wingbacked chairs on the other side of the desk.
"Did you ever wonder what happened after I quit the account? Where I went? What became of old Will?"
"Of course I did," replied Jack. He paused to look down at Zara, who was stroking the lapel of his waistcoat. Her little eyes were getting heavy. "But I assumed you had changed your name and vanished into polite society, like so many of our brethren have done."
"Now there's a bit of irony, coming from you," chuckled Will. "Why didn't you change your name and adopt a low profile, eh?"
"You know me, Will. I've never been very good at fitting in."
Will smiled knowingly as he took a sip of brandy. "Not unless you somehow become convinced it's your idea."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Remember when you came aboard my ship?"
"I remember when I was brought aboard, if that's what you're referring to."
"Fair enough. But you took to the life quicker than most."
"It seemed the wisest choice."
"After I made sure every other choice was a dead end."
"So, all that time, you were manipulating me? Steering me into a life of piracy?"
"Of course I did! Don't act so surprised. Jack, you showed far too much promise to let you go back to some mundane existence with your nose shoved in a book."
"I'm not surprised. Just disappointed that I didn't realise it at the time."
"You were a head-strong, idealistic young man. And a bit too self-righteous for your own good. Getting your hands dirty fixed that nicely."
"It didn't hurt the bottom line, I can tell you that much," said Jack as he gestured at the house around them."
"No, you've done yourself proud. I must say I'm quite impressed."
"Thank you, Will. That means a lot, coming from you." Jack took a sip of brandy, and shifted the sleeping Zara gently in his arms to keep her comfortable.

"Dear God, I'll never get used to seeing you with a babe in your arms," chuckled Will.
"What about you?" asked Jack. "Did you ever marry? Settle down, and have children?"
"Me? Never. I'm far too busy, too restless, for domesticity."
"Which leads us back to your story."
"Quite right, it does! Now, what do you know of the English colonies in the Americas?"
Jack thought for a moment. "Not a lot, I'm afraid. I know there are a few of them, nothing more than company towns owned by the English East India Company. I don't think they're destined to amount to much, really. Though I hear they are quite popular with religious types."
Will shook his head. "Settling down has made you short-sighted, lad. Those 'company towns' are growing faster than the EIC can keep up with. thanks largely to those religious zealots. They're already wanting to do things their own way, in spite of the controls the EIC are trying to impose."
"Taxes and tariffs, I'm guessing?"
"And trade regulations, of course. The EIC's sacred trinity." Will took another drink of brandy as he collected his thoughts. "And they're putting pressure on one particular product the colonist are mightily fond of. Care to venture a guess?"
"Cotton and black dye for the fashionable Puritans?"
Will gave a laugh. "No, you're way off. Rum."
"Hmph. That makes some sense, I suppose. With all the sea traffic they would logically get, you need to keep the sailors happy..."
"Wrong again."
Jack gave his old friend a dubious look. "You're not serious."
"Yes, laddie, I am."
"The Puritans?"
Harkness nodded affirmatively. "They spend every spare penny they have on the stuff, much to the chagrin of their clergy. Preachers don't like their cut getting squeezed, so you can imagine what most of the sermons are about these days."
"You seem to know an awful lot about the goings of the Puritans, Will. I've never known you to be fond of the pious."
"I'm still not. But they make very good customers, Jack."

Jack broke out in huge grin. "So that's what you've been up to? Importing rum to the colonies?"
"Not importing. Distilling. The EIC impose high duties on importing liquor. But sugar? Almost nothing at all. That is, until recently."
"I see. The EIC aren't going after those buying the rum, but those making it."
"Exactly. I make the best rum there is in Virginia. But the new tariffs stand to make my product too expensive for my clientèle, and I can't have that."
"Is that what brings you to Barbados, then? To find a supplier who shares your dislike of regulated shipping and tariffs?"
"It is. And I'm glad to say I have found that partner."
"That's excellent news, Will! I'm happy for you. So who is the lucky bloke? Peter Davison, by chance? He's a good fellow, and industrious. He should be a fine partner--"
"You."

Jack stared at Harkness.
"What?"
"You, Jack. I want you to be my supplier."
"But, I'm not in any position to help you."
"Why the hell not? You've got a fast ship, and a sugar plantation."
"The ship is not the issue. It's the plantation. Will, I'm only farming a couple acres. Just enough to get my stock introduced to this market. I couldn't possibly supply you with enough sugar right now."
"Fine. Then increase your acreage. It's time to get serious about it."
"It's not that easy."
Will sighed and gave Jack a tired look. "Yes, it is. You're the one making it difficult. Jack, all you need to do is purchase some slaves and get them planting and harvesting sugar cane. Cook it down into molasses and put it in barrels, then ship it to my warehouses in Virginia. Simple!"
"But that's going to take time. A year, maybe a little less."
"I'm willing to wait. Jack, I know you. I trust you. I can count on one hand the number of people in this world I can say that about."
"I don't know, Will..."
Harkness knocked back the last of his brandy and stood up. "Fine. Think about it. I'm in town for three more days. I'll come back round day after tomorrow for your answer. Fair warning to you, though; I'm expecting a yes. So mull it over. Talk to your lovely wife about it. But find a way to say yes."
"All right," nodded Jack. "I'll give it serious thought. That's all I can promise."
"You'll do better than that, Jack. I have faith in you. Now, don't bother getting up. I'd hate for your precious little girl to wake from such a peaceful slumber. I'll see myself out. Good night, Jack."
"Good night, Will."

Jack watched as his former mentor strolled out of his office. A few moments later, he heard the front door of the house open and close. He looked down into the sleeping face of his daughter and sighed.
"What do you think, Zara? What should I do?"
Zara snuggled into her father's chest, her face the perfect picture of angelic peace.
"You're right, of course. A good idea. I'll sleep on it."

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Honour was busying herself in the kitchen looking at swatches for table linens when she noticed it.
The silence.
The hum of men's voices had stopped. How long, though? She quietly made he way down the hallway to the door of Jack's office.
The silence persisted.
She looked around the door into the office. To her surprise, their guest was gone. Zara was sound asleep, cradled securely in her father's arms. Jack was gently stroking her hair, his eyes focused on something a thousand miles away.
Honour cleared her throat softly.

Jack blinked and looked over to where she was standing.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know you were there. Come on in, love."
Honour stepped in and took a seat across from her husband. "How long has Mister Harkness been gone?"
"Mister Harkness?" chuckled Jack. "You make that old pirate sound respectable."
"It's been known to happen," she said with a sly smile. "Back to the question, though."
"Um, maybe half an hour. I'm not sure."
"You were staring off when I came to the door. Did the conversation end badly? I didn't hear him leave."
"Badly? Not at all. He let himself out because Zara was sleeping." Jack scowled a little and sighed. "Like old times, he's given me a lot to think about."
"But unlike old times, you don't have to puzzle it out on your own. What did you two talk about? Let me guess. A business proposition?"
"Why Mrs. Wolfe! Were you eavesdropping?"
"You know better," she retorted playfully. "Anyway, you said before that Mister-- that Will is quite the entrepreneur."
"Will Harkness is the sort who will have a hand in a little of every kind of enterprise until he draws his last breath. There's no telling what kind of business empire he's built."

"And he wants you to join it?" asked Honour.
"Of course," Jack answered flatly.
"You don't sound enthusiastic about the prospect."
"He asks a lot, even if it sounds like a little at first."
"Oh dear. He wants to use the ship, doesn't he?"
"More than that, Honour. He wants to use our plantation."
"What?!" she said a little too loudly.
Zara stirred, but did not wake up.
"What on earth does he want with the plantation?" she continued more quietly.
"He wants to buy our sugar, if we had any. Will has a distillery in the Virginia colony, making rum. But they're imposing steep tariffs now, and he needs a discreet supplier."
"But, we aren't anywhere close to being a fully operational plantation. Not for a year at least."
"That's what I told him. But Will Harkness plays the long game. Always has. He's willing to wait. Damn his patience, anyway."

Honour tapped the arm of her chair as she thought. "How long would it take us to hire enough workers to really make a go of things?"
Jack shook his head. "Between finding wayward souls wanting work and buying up contracts of indentured servants... I don't know. Two years, perhaps?"
"That would never do."
"Keep in mind, that's IF we can find anyone wanting to do manual labour. Most coming to Barbados looking to make a fresh start are running away from genuine toil. If you want manpower quickly and cheaply, there's but one choice. And I already know your answer on that score."

Slavery. Honour hated the very thought of human beings held in bondage and treated literally as work animals. Jack had no taste for it, but he understood the economics and accepted the practice as a necessary evil.

Her brow furrowed as she weighed their options. "How badly do you want this to work? Honestly?"
"My, aren't you full of questions tonight?"
"Answer them, and they will become fewer."
"Promise?"
"No. But answer anyway."
"I don't know, Honour," he said after a long pause. "It's not something we'd seriously considered. There will be a lot of preparation work, acquiring labour and equipment..."
"And seeds to plant," she added.
"Seeds? No, love. There are no sugar cane seeds."
"Then how do you plant them?"
"You plant segments of the stalk, and the plant grows from that."
"Like starting a grape vine from cuttings?"
"Exactly like that."
"See?" she said proudly. "You're a natural at this."
"Hardly," Jack said with a chuckle. "This is a lot to sort out in just a couple of days."
"That's when he wants an answer?"
He nodded. "He said he would be back day after tomorrow. Right now, I have no idea what I will tell him."

Honour fixed him with a look. "Right, then. Say, for sake of argument, the labour, equipment, and supplies were all taken care of. Crops in the fields, ready to harvest. What would you answer to Will be then?"
Jack looked at the ceiling, as if the answer would miraculously appear to him. "Honour, I'm just not sure," he finally said.
"Then there's more to this than the readiness of the plantation. Something else is bothering you."
"Have you been hanging round Duckie again?"
She stuck her tongue out at him and made a face. "No, but I can arrange to. Back to the matter at hand. What is it about Will Harkness that is making you reluctant?"
"He's demanding, for one."
"So are you, when you're of a mind to be. I think it's a sea captain thing."
Jack took the opportunity to stick his tongue out at her. "It's more than that. He's... presumptuous. I mean, like today. He shows up out of the blue and expects me to blithely say yes to a business deal without so much as a draft contract. And you know what else he did?"
"I'm sure you'll tell me."
"He strolled into my office and started going through the papers on my desk. Then, he helped himself to my best liquor as if he owned it! And why the hell are you smiling at me like that?"
"Because you just told me why you're so reluctant about his offer."
"Really. And what, pray tell, is the reason?"
"Equality."
"What?"
"You heard me. He didn't treat you as an equal. It was like you were one of his crew all over again."

Jack stroked Zara's hair as he thought about Honour's words. The little girl snored softly in his arms.
"I guess you're right, love. It did feel like he was treating me as an underling again."
"There you are, then. If he can't treat you as an equal, it is perfectly understandable if you turn him down. It's a point every bit as important as a signed contract."
"How did I get so lucky as to marry such an intelligent woman?"
"It wasn't by clean living, that's for certain. I would hate to think of what you'd become if you ever decided to keep your hands completely clean."
"Ugh. That would be terribly dull."
"Exactly. And I don't do dull, thank you very much. I married a pirate, after all."
"How about we put Zara to bed, and we make a little excitement for ourselves?"
"Slow down, Casanova. We still have the labour to sort out."
He gave her a disappointed pout. "You seriously want to discuss all this tonight? Darling, all work and no play makes Jack a dull lad."
"Nice try. Business first, then we'll see about keeping you sharp."
"You have my undivided attention, my dear," he said with a flirtatious wink. "But I honestly cannot see how we can possibly obtain the labour force we would need without, well, buying them. An idea we both find repugnant, but that's how the reality of things.  And I know better than to try and convince you otherwise."

"Well, then," Honour said with a wry smile, "I'm just full of surprises tonight."

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"Something tells me I'll need another drink for this revelation," Jack said suspiciously.
"It won't be that shocking, as long as you hear me out. Just keep a good hold on our daughter. That desk is hard and she's sleeping so soundly."
Jack dutifully took another sip of his drink, then made sure Zara was secure in his arms. The little girl scarcely stirred. He smiled a little at her complete trust in him. As much as parenthood felt like something that was made up as one goes along, it made him feel happy that he was getting the important stuff right.
"All right, then," he said to Honour. "What is your surprise?"
"I want you to buy the slaves we need," she replied matter-of-factly.
Jack stared at her for a moment, then chuckled. "Ah, very funny, love! You had me going for a moment."
Honour looked back at him, her expression one of complete seriousness.
"What?!" he finally stammered. "You're serious? You want me to actually buy slaves?"
"Yes, I do. It's the only way we can get this plantation running and meet Will's need for sugar."
"Honour, I don't understand. You hate slavery. Hell, I hate slavery."
"You do? This is the first time you've actually come out and said it."
"I only tolerate the slave trade because I can't do anything about it. One man can't change the world."
"But one man can change his own world. And in doing so, you may just change the world Zara comes to know."

Jack shook his head slowly. "You should have let me have that drink first. This is very confusing."
"No, because it makes you focus on things other than serious matters, and I'm not fond of repeating myself. Speaking of which, this is why I said you need to hear me out."
"Mrs. Wolfe, I am all ears. Explain on."
"Go ahead and buy the slaves we will need. Not just for starting things along, but for when we're fully operational," explained Honour. "That way everyone will know their job when it matters most. And we'll need to buy whole families. I'll not be party to splitting husbands from wives and parents from children."
"You'll get no argument from me on that score, love."

Jack could not help but think back to the slave auctions he had witnessed in various ports. The anguished pleading in an alien tongue of a mother desperate to stay with her husband or child, the terrified shrieks of little ones torn from their parents. It was something that he had never been able to forget no matter how hard he tried.

"But mind you," Honour continued, "there is only one way I'll agree to any of this."
"Please tell, because I'm hoping it will make this whole conversation finally make some sense to me."
"Once all the slaves are purchased, the contracts signed, and the money exchanged, we give them their freedom."
Jack's eyes went wide. "Their freedom! And how do you suggest we give them incentive to stay once they're free?"
Honour smiled as she leaned forward in her chair. "Simple. Here, they will have clean housing. Education. Responsibilities rewarded with wages. And most important, they will have respect."
"Someone's given this a bit of thought. You do realise, this arrangement won't sit well with some people. At best they may refuse to buy from us."
"Hang what some people think!" said Honour sharply. "When has that ever mattered to you? I don't care if Will Harkness is our only customer. We have more money than we can possibly spend in five lifetimes, Jack. We can use it to do something good for people who won't get a chance in this world any other way."

Jack looked at his wife, and marvelled at the fire that burned within her. True compassion coupled with the intense desire to see things set right shone brightly in her eyes. Honour should know about living with the burden of injustice, with everything she had lived through before they started their life together in Barbados. Of course she was right. This was the best solution a the way round. And maybe, just maybe, such a humanitarian act would in some small way help him atone for the many bad things he had done in his life.

"The reinvention of Jack Wolfe continues, eh?" he said after a brief pause to think. "From pirate to dutiful husband and respectable citizen, now we take a turn toward social radical and abolitionist?"
"Not to mention smuggler and black market trader," smiled Honour.
"Why, Mrs. Wolfe. I do believe you are trying to tarnish my halo before it's properly broken in."
"Tsk! It's made of tin and cheap brass, and you know it. And I wouldn't have it any other way."
"This really would be the best of both worlds in a way. I get to keep my hands dirty yet clean all at the same time."
"An exciting prospect, don't you think?" asked Honour. "I know I find it so."
Jack cocked an eyebrow. "What's this now?"
"I've... missed the pirate in you, Jack. And I know you have too. I see it in your eyes, every time you look out over the water, every time you look at your maps. So you see, this would be the best of both worlds for me as well. I get to have my wild-eyed pirate, yet never have to worry when or if he'll come sailing home to me."
"Honour, I never knew you felt that way."
"You're a wonderful husband and father, Jack, and I love that about you. But remember, I also fell in love with that mad, brilliant pirate side of you. Why, I'll never know, but I did. I don't want to lose that, and I don't want you to lose that aspect of who you are. This simply allows you to channel those energies in a different way."
"I don't know," said Jack. "That side of me may be a bit rusty."
Honour smiled coyly. "I did make a promise earlier about keeping you sharp..."
"You were serious?"
"Of course I was! But I can change my mind if you like."
"No, no! No, I like it when you're serious."

Honour got up from her chair and walked to the door that led to the hallway. She paused there and  turned back to her husband.
"Then let's put Zara to bed, and see just how serious we can get."
She gave him a brief, smouldering look, then slipped through the doorway.

Jack smiled happily as he stood up, careful to keep his daughter comfortable in his arms.
"Zara, have I ever told you how much I love your mum?" he whispered as he walked up the stairs with her. "Every chance I can get, that's how much. And I swear, if you manage to remember me saying that when you can actually talk, I'll deny every last word of it..."

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Jack came into the bedroom after putting their daughter to bed. Honour had already slipped under the sheet and from the rumpled clothes on the floor and the way the sheet seemed to cling to her body, there wasn't any doubt in his mind that he wouldn't have to take the time to put her in a state of dishabille.Two long stemmed crystal goblets of wine were on the nightstand, the candlelight giving it a soft red glow.
"I thought we could celebrate our merger with Mr. Harkness, or at least get a head start on it. But without him."
"Three has always been a crowd, love."

"And Zara is fast asleep?"
"Never stirred."
"Good. She was out in the fresh air and that always ensures a long interrupted sleep."
She handed Jack a glass.
"Shouldn't you be loosening your shirt?"
Jack took the glass, but his eyes were locked on the brief glimpse provided as Honour offered him the wine.
"I am at your will, you temptress," he said happily.
"You're giving me ideas," she smiled as she ran her finger slowly around the rim of the glass.
He sipped the wine and set down the glass before stripping off his shirt.
"Ideas? Lascivious ones, I hope!"
"Are there any better in this moment?"
"None that I can think of."
"As much as I enjoy seeing you in silk shirt, I find myself wanting to see you in nothing at all."

"A fallen sea captain am I, that I should follow the orders of one beneath me."
"Who says I'm beneath you?"
"Fine by me. You can be on top."
"Shut up and kiss me then."

"Which is my best side in the candle light?" he asked.
"Both. Now down that wine and come keep me company."
Jack started to upend the wine, but paused. "Darling, Duckie has cited studies about how wine can... reduce certain abilities."
"You had a bottle of Irish whiskey to yourself the night we conceived Zara. A glass of wine will do you in? Spare me."
He downed the glass. "That's more like it!"

He brushed her hair away from her face, and paused before kissing her deeply.
Honour pulled him on top of her as they kissed.
"You know how much I get tired of your chatter?" she asked.
"How much?" he asked.
His eyes went wide with her response.
"That much. Now love me, you pirate. And don't you dare stop."
"Aye!" he gasped as they began to make love with passion they'd not known in months.
"Oh, Jack," she breathed softly. "You always know...wait....I need to talk to you and I can't when you do...oooh....this is serious."
He looked up at her.
"Can't we talk later?"
"But I always fall asleep and....mmm...NO! We have to talk now!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

He sighed and rolled over on his back, taking her with him. She pulled her hair back over her shoulder and out of her face.
"I want to talk to you about the land."
"The land. You want to talk about the LAND? NOW?"
"Yes."
He nibbled on her neck. "The land will be there for the next forty-five minutes, Honour."
"Forty-five minutes? Are you tired?"
"As a matter of fact I am. But it is quality, not quantity."

He sighed when he saw that look in her eyes. The stubborn one that meant that if he succumbed to her wishes, the reward would be ample.
"Alright, start talking, love."
"As soon as you get your hand off my bum."
Jack removed it but held her close to him.
"I want fifteen acres for myself."
"What?"
Honour flipped off the bed when Jack sat up.
"OW!"
"Well, my hand is off your bum."
She rubbed it and climbed back into bed.
"What, pray tell, do you want to do with fifteen acres?"
"I've been thinking. You have the sugar plantation, right?"
"Right."
"For the distilling of spirits.
Well, I want a piece of the action."
He grinned. "Now you're talking!"
"Not that kind of action! I want acreage for myself to start something I've always wanted to."
"And what is that?"
"I want fifteen acres to plant a vineyard and some medicinal herbs."

"Fifteen acres, eh?"
"I think we can spare it, don't you?"
"Oh we can spare it just fine. But it does raise certain questions."
Honour gave him as concerned look. "What sort of questions?"
"Just one, really," he said as a smile teased his lips. "That of payment."
"Payment? You want me to PAY you for the land? But what about community property and....oh, I get it. I know that gleam in your eye. It's that same gleam you had when you said you were making a right proper married woman of me."
"Well, didn't I?"
She ran her hand down his chest. "I don't know about proper. So lay out your terms."
He chuckled. "I'll overlook your double entendre because I don't think you meant it that way. I am willing to GIVE you the fifteen acres if you are a good little girl."
She peppered his face with kisses. "Oh, thank you! Thank you!"
He took her face in his hands and was nose to nose with her.
"And I'll throw in an extra acre on one condition."
"And what's that?"
"If you are a very bad girl!"
"You mean to tell me that my being bad is only worth one acre?"
"No, it's worth far more than a hundred acres, but there's only so much land to spare."
Honour drew lazy circles on his chest with the tip of her finger. "Sure you could sweeten the deal?"
"I think I know what would make you happiest."
"I'm hanging on your every word, then."
"I stay out of your business dealings. Run it how you wish. If you want help, I'll gladly give it. But the business, or hobby, whatever you want it to be, is yours to do as you please."
"That makes be VERY happy! Thank you!"

She kissed him deeply, to the point he was breathless when their lips parted. Looking into his eyes, she gave a wicked smile.
"And now I'm feeling positively scandalous!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"What time are they supposed to be here, Honour?"
"I told them 6 PM and since Renee is running the company known as Josiah Briggs, you know they will be on time."
She lit the candles on the table. "Since Josiah will be the official captain--for now--of the Lobo, we have to have this as a business meeting to lay the groundwork for this enterprise. If he says no, we are back to square one."
Jack lit his pipe and Honour immediately took it out of his mouth.
"Outside with that." She dumped the tobacco in a houseplant. "I don't want the smell here and Zara does not need to see her da as a chimney."
Jack sighed and put his pipe on the buffet.
"I don't think Josiah will say no. He wants a bit of adventure. Any excuse for him to put out to sea is a good one."
"Isn't sleeping with Renee adventure enough?"
"Well, of course it...." Jack became quiet and Honour raised an eyebrow.

"Mmmm-hmmmm," Honour hummed with a smirk. "There is something I'd like you to keep in mind when you're talking to Josiah, Jack. Something very important, if we want this to be a success."
"And what's that? Of course I want this to be successful."
"Do you remember how frustrated you were the other night after talking to Will?"
"Yes, I do. I couldn't believe how he acted like we were still aboard ship..."
Honour began to smile as her husband's voice trailed off.
"I get your point," said Jack.
"Josiah has come into his own, just like you did. And knowing male egos, he will quietly resent it if you don't treat him as an equal. Just like you did with your old captain."
He waved the air dismissively. "Honour, I am NOT Will Harkness."
"Yes, but who taught you everything you needed to know as a pirate?"
After a long pause, Jack at last begrudgingly said the name. "Will Harkness."
"First learned is best learned. I remember my father's horseman, Perry, saying all the time. It's true for people, too."
"I hope you'll give me a subtle reminder, should I slip up and play master and commander?"
"Will a kick in the shins from under the table suffice?""I've heard."
"I think I'll eat standing," said Jack with a wink.

The door knocker pounded.
"That's Josiah. He never did have a subtle touch." Jack said.
He headed toward the door. "I just hope this all works out and....Josiah! Wonderful to see you!"
"Ye hope WHAT works out? Whenever ye say that, ye have a scheme and a dream brewin' and ye just drag me into it. And then I get to bail ye out of gaol or stop ye from getting a bottle busted over yer head. Or ye even end up married!"
"For which I am undyingly grateful. Renee, looking as ravishing as ever!"
Renee gave Jack a kiss on the cheek. "You know it is your sweet daughter I came to see and not you. Where is she?"
"Probably terrorizing the cats."
Jack grinned suddenly. "I'm glad you are here too, Phillip."
The lad held out his hand. It was obvious from looking at him that he was a copy of Briggs at that age.
"It's nice to be here, Mr.....Jack."
"Well, shall we go out to the veranda? It's cooling off now."
If you lads don't mind, I'm going to catch up on a little girl talk with Honour?" said Renee.
"I wouldn't think of standin' in your way, love," said Briggs.
Jack couldn't help but beam after seeing the love-light in Josiah's eyes for Renee.
"We'll try not to laugh too loud," she said as she went to the dining room to find Honour.

Phillip and Jack were nearly to the veranda doors when Jack realised Briggs hadn't moved.
"Um, Josiah? Something the matter?"
"Eh? No, nothin's wrong." He sighed happily as he hurried to catch up. "I hate it when she leaves, but I surely do love to watch her go."
"Honestly, Josiah. How long have you two been together? Surely more than a few weeks."
"Says the man who can't pry his eyes from his own wife for love nor money."
"Guilty as charged, my friend! Who would have thought?"
"Not I, after all the tales I've heard told," said Phillip.
"And tales is what they be, after all this time," said Briggs. "Bearin' not a bit of resemblance to the truth."
"Exaggerations and invention, like any other fish stories," added Jack.
"Oh," said Phillip. "So the one about the both of you in Port Royal with the four tavern wenches and a pirate flag stolen from Charles Vane is just---"
"NEVER MIND!" said Jack and Briggs as they hustled Phillip the veranda and quickly shut the doors.

"Mmm...something smells wonderful!" Renee sniffed appreciatively as she entered the kitchen.
Honour had just taken Zara's fingers away from the cake and had been rewarded by her daughter with a pout.
Renee laughed. "I can't help but see another toddler there, perhaps one in Wales who gave her mother fits."
Honour's smile turned wistful.
"I wish she was alive to see my daughter."
Renee's face fell.
"I'm so sorry, Honour." Honour shrugged. "I don't really remember her too much. "Except for the scent. She always wore...."
"Jasmine?" Renee said softly.
Honour felt her eyes tear up. "I never really thought about it. But maybe that is why I wear it. It is a way to keep her close to me. And maybe Zara will remember me this way...." she brushed a tear off her cheek.
"But enough of this," she said a bit too brightly.
"You are missing home, Honour."
"Not home so much but my sisters. Especially Megan. She was there when Zara was born. Do you have sisters, Renee?"
"No, I am an only child. I do feel I missed something."
Renee scooped up Zara. "But let's hope this one has lots and lots of siblings, right, sweetheart?"

Just then Phillip came in the kitchen, looking crestfallen.
"I got kicked out."
'What?"
"All I said was something about four wenches and a flag..."
The women laughed. "Oh, that one. Grown up talk, I guess."
"Don't feel bad, Phillip. There are stories Jack won't even tell me."
Renee popped a strawberry in her mouth and handed one to Phillip. 'Unfortunately I know them all."
"Because you were involved with them, ma'a,m?" Phillip laughed.
She ruffled his hair."Go on with you, Mr. Smartypants Briggs!"
Honour took Zara out of Renee's arms and said,"Well, I smell the chicken and I think Mrs Avery is setting the food on the table,so shall we go?"

[Welsh Wench]

The dinner party had taken their desserts and brandies out to the verandah. Josiah patted his stomach.
"Ahh! I almost need to loosen my breech waistband. There is one thing you are guaranteed here--a great meal."
Jack lit his pipe "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Josiah."
Josiah leaned forward. "Alright. I am ready for it."
"Ready for what?"
"The reason you invited us here. Your next scheme."

Jack tried to hide his smile behind his brandy snifter.
"What scheme?"
"The scheme where you and Honour kept exchanging glances and I don't think it had to do with your after dinner plans. That is always a given," Renee quipped.
Honour closed the verandah door after her.
"Have you told him yet?"
"AHA! I was right!"

Jack sighed. "The cat is out of the bag now, Miss Puss-in-Boots."
Honour's face fell. "Oh, Jack. I am sorry. But I thought you were going to broach the subject when I was putting Zara to bed."
Jack laughed, "No harm. Fifteen minutes won't make a difference.."
Josiah leaned forward. "I'm all ears, Jack."
Jack leaned back. "I had a visitor yesterday."
Renee exploded, "Don't tell me Governor Culley is making more noise!"
"No, this is a ghost from the past. One Mr.Will Harkness, also known as Iron Will Harkness!"
Josiah's brandy went down the wrong pipe. Renee pounded his back.
"Blimey! Warn a man first, Jack! I damn near choked to death! How did he look?"
"A little greyer and using a walking stick but I think it is more for prestige than use. Slight limp. Must be from that shot he took in the leg at Curacao."

"So...I take it Iron Will is instrumental in the reason for this dinner, Jack. And whatever it is, you want me to be a party to it. Drag me into going along with it.
I'm sure El Lobo is also going along for the ride too. So out with it!"
"I can sum it up in one word, Josiah. Rum."
"Rum?"
"Rum. And plenty of it."
Jack poured Josiah another snifter of brandy.
"Let me tell you what we have in mind....."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"it's an interesting proposal, Jack. Virginia in the Colonies. Who would have thought Harkness would have ended up there?"
"I figured we make a run up there every four months. We load barrels of sugar and we return with goods to be sold here. If you want to do a bit of plundering under a letter of marque, I certainly won't object."
"In return for ten percent?"
"More like fifteen percent, seeing as I am the legal owner of said vessel."
"Fair enough."

Renee thought about the proposal for a moment.
"Has Jack ever steered you wrong?" she asked. "Strictly about business matters, I mean. Not your other adventures."
"Well, I suppose," started Briggs, but his voice trailed off when he glanced over at Honour, and his face suddenly flushed bright red.
Honour arched an eyebrow and gave Jack a questioning look. Jack's only reply was an innocent shrug. Honour looked next to Renee, who winked and mouthed the word, "Later."

"I don't need your answer tonight, Josiah," said Jack. "This is a lot to think about. But I wouldn't trust anyone else with the work or the ship. Especially the ship. Why don't you sleep on it and let me know your decision?"
"Thank ye, Jack. Ye know your trust is well placed with me. How soon will ye be needin' an answer?"
"Oh... tomorrow would do."
"Tomorrow?" gulped Briggs.
"Harkness' deadline, not mine. But I 'd prefer to do this with your help. I'll understand if you say no."
"Aye, Jack. I appreciate the spot ye be in. I'll give ye my answer tomorrow, say around midday?"
"That would be fine, my friend. And Renee, make sure that in order for Josiah to sleep on this decision, that he actually gets some sleep?"
"Well, you're certainly no fun these days," she replied with a jesting pout.

Josiah pulled out his pocket watch.
"Look at the time. Guess we must be getting back home. Jack, you've given me quite a lot to think about. And in a short period of time. You sure you need an answer by tomorrow?"
"Will is coming by then. I'd like it if you were here, Josiah. Any questions I don't have the answer, you can ask him. He seems to have done his homework on it. From what I can tell, it is a win-win situation all the way around."
"I'll be by tomorrow afternoon."
As they settled back in Renee's carriage, Josiah asked Renee, 'What do you think?"
"Honestly? I think it sounds good. What have you got to lose, Josie? You love the sea.This sets you in a new direction. The New World. Almost like a new life."
He squeezed her hand.
"I like the one I have now."
"Phillip?"
"Yes, sir?"
"Do you think you would like to learn navigational skills and go with me?"
His face lit up. "Really? You want me to go with you?"
"Why not? We have alot of time to make up for and nothing better than time on the ocean and under a blue sky."
"I'd like that, Father."
Josiah turned to Renee.
"You know it will mean being gone from you for a bit."
Renee smiled at him. "it's not like I won't see you again. I have my business to run and besides, absence makes the heart grow fonder."
She put her hand on his arm and gave him an affectionate pat.
Josiah smiled.
"I think I have an answer for Jack then."

[Welsh Wench]

Jack fluffed up his pillow and leaned back. Folding his arms behind his head, he gazed at the ceiling as if all the answers were there.
"Are you having second thoughts, Jack?" she said as she gazed at him in the mirror. She poured the water for washing in a basin.
"What? About the venture? Being associated with Harkness? Taking Briggs along for the ride in one of my 'schemes' as he calls it?"
Honour dipped the cloth in the water and began to wash her face.
"All of the above. What do you think Josiah will decide?"
Jack chuckled. "Knowing Josiah, he will relish the adventure. Especially if he is the captain of El Lobo. Lord knows I trust him with the ship. He's more cautious than I ever was."
"But will he be able to handle the sailing into the Atlantic and up the coast of the Colonies?"
"Darling, there is no situation that Josiah can't handle.We will make sure we don't sail the ship during the winter storms. No sense heading into a nor'easter. Besides, the crop will coincide with the summer months."

Honour dried her face off with a soft towel.
"Do you think that Phillip will want to stay here and seek an education? I suppose he can stay with us if he was of a mind to."
"I think he would like to stay with Renee. As it is right now, he seems to think of Renee as a mother figure. A mother figure! Who would have thought?"

I think Renee has more in the way of maternal instincts than you give her credit for," said Honour as she climbed into bed. "Or that she gives herself."
"Phillip is a young man, and if there's anything Renee knows how to do, it's keep a young man in his place."
"It goes beyond that. She loves Josiah, and Phillip is part of the package now."

"The things we'll do for love, eh? Is that what you're getting at?"
"It's kept me putting up with you, hasn't it?" she said with a sly smile.

"Well, I walked right into that one," Jack laughed. "Still, I hope he says yes. Things have changed. He has a life outside the ship now. I can understand if he decided it was more important to put his energies there. But still, it's an opportunity that fell into our laps. I was beginning to wonder how we could market our sugar crop for the maximum profit. Will Harkness did the research and handed it to me."
Quietly, Honour said, "Like he did for you when you became a pirate?"
"As a matter of fact, yes. You know, Honour, you can thank him."
"Thank him? For what?"
Jack laughed. "If I hadn't turned to pyracy, I would have never entered that tavern. You would have stayed a tavern wench a little longer until another captain came along to claim your heart. Maybe someone like James Blake."

Her head snapped up suddenly.
"What? Why do you say that? I only met James Blake in Castara, I swear."
"Easy, honey. Don't get so defensive. I just meant someone charming and dashing like him."
"Oh. Well, alright. But I happen to think we would have found each other somehow."
"You Welsh and your predictions of fate!"
She snuggled closer to Jack.
"Have you thought about what you will do if Josiah turns you down? I mean, he has a son to consider. And then there is his new-found relationship with Renee. His priorities may have changed."
"He's been in love with her for years."
Honour bit her lip and said softly, "But her heart belonged to another."
"How so?"
"Jack, are you that dense?"

He sighed and turned to her, idly playing with one of her blonde curls.
"No, I am not that dense. I knew. I always knew. But I could never return her love. Alright, I will clarify that. I love Renee. But I wasn't in love with her.  There's a difference. I let her keep her pride."
"It didn't stop you from lying with her." She put a finger to his lips. "Don't deny it."
"I won't."
"Aha! I never had proof until you just admitted it."
"Honour, why are we talking about this?"
"Because I like her. And I know what a bastard you can be."
"She's happy with Josiah. He adores her. Worships her. And so does Phillip. In them, she has a ready-made family."
"If Josiah says no, are you considering taking the ship yourself to Virginia?"

"No. As much as it would be an adventure, I need to stay here to oversee the planting and the crops and manage the labor. Is that the answer you were hoping for?"
"I don't want you to stay here unless it is what you really want, Jack."
"Oooh, do I detect a bit of frostiness in your voice?"

She shook her head.
"I don't even know why we are discussing all this. Let's see what Josiah says and then we will deal with it if the answer is no."
"Harkness won't take no for an answer."
"Then Harkness can go--"
Jack put his finger to her lips and whispered, "Not lady-like, my sweetness. Let's just see what tomorrow brings."
She sighed, rolled over and took most of the blankets.
Jack leaned over to kiss her but she snuggled down deeper in the blankets.

"Oh well...I can use the sleep anyways," he sighed as he snuffed out the candle.

[Welsh Wench]

Jack came down the stairs to breakfast. Honour had already been sitting at the table, drinking her tea.
"Good morning, darling--both of you!'
Zara was sitting in her little chair, stuffing a banana in her mouth and grinning till it fell out on the floor. Muir swooped in for the leftovers.
He kissed Honour on the forehead.
"Feeling more like yourself?"
"Yes, I am. I am sorry if I seemed miffed last night, Jack. I guess I was just feeling a bit unsettled with Will Harkness in town."
"How so?" He helped himself to a cup of coffee.
She sighed. "It is just a part of me that...well, even though I love that wild, dashing  side of you, I don't want you wanting to go back to the seas so much that you would leave Zara and me. Or that you would resent us for it."
"Honour, I am disappointed in you."
"What? What did I do?"
"I promised you I would never leave you. Do you honestly think I would go back on my word?"
I'm sorry, Jack., It is just that Will Harkness is so charismatic. He charmed you to his life once before and I was afraid he would charm you to go back to it again."
"Darling, Will Harkness does have his methods of persuasion. But I am not the impressionable nineteen year old who was recovering from a broken heart. I am now a thirty-six year old man with a beautiful wife and child. Frankly, Harkness can't  hold a candle to the charms of Rhiannon Conaway!"

"Besides, Honour, there is one thing in your favor."
"What's that?"
"I've seen Harkness's legs. On that you have the leg up."
She balled her napkin up and threw it at his head.
"Oh,that is so lame, Jack! What time do you expect his Eminence?"
"Probably around noon. Why?"
She stood up and busied herself around the dining room.
"I have to get lunch ready then."
'Isn't it kind of early to plan?"
She kissed his forehead and said "I want Will Harkness to be pea green with envy, wishing he had your life!"

Jack chuckled to himself. Honour could not help but be curious.
"And just what's that for?" she asked.
"Oh, I wouldn't worry too much about making Will envious, darling. He already is."

"How do you mean? I'm not following."
"I wasn't the only one to notice you in that tavern, Honour. Nor the first."
Honour put her hand to her mouth in surprise. "You mean.... him? He..."
"Well, he wouldn't be the first employer to take note of a comely employee. The man's got taste, I'll give him that."

Why didn't you tell me this earlier?" she stammered, a blush rising fast in her cheeks.
"It never came up. I'm just as surprised as you, though. You could have knocked me over with a feather when he told me."

"How do you expect me to be around him after telling me such news?"
"Such old news, you mean." He smiled gently. "I didn't mean to embarrass you, love. I thought you'd get a laugh out of it."
"Well, it is a bit funny. But still..."
"Honour, everything will be fine. It's not like he has designs on you still. He knows better, for one thing. I don't think he's too keen on eating that fancy cane of his."
Honour giggled and began to relax. "You're right, of course. I'll just pretend I don't know."
"That's my girl! I've seen you play cards, so I know how well you can bluff."

"That was a long time ago."
"We can test your skills, to see if you've still got it. How about we play a hand for what's under that pretty dress?" he said with a flirtatious wink.
Honour gasped and began to laugh. "Are you so keen to lose a bet?"
"I'll go get the cards," he grinned.
Before Honour could protest, there came a loud jangling from the front door.
"Saved by the bell!" she laughed. "Go see who it is. It will give you a chance to cool off."
"With my luck, it's Will. The man can only tell time when it's someone else's appointment with him..."

Honour smoothed out her dress.
"Jack Wolfe, you are a bad man to set a woman on fire  when there is no time to quench it!"
She heard Jack laugh as he opened the door.
"Well, well--if it isn't the terror of the seven seas darkening my door. And this time it is no surprise!"
Harkness bowed low to him. "That is about as close as an acknowledgement to your accomplishments as you will ever get from me, pup! And there is the charming Mrs Wolfe!Good lord, I don't know if I can ever get used to a Mrs in front of that surname!"

Honour felt her face get a bit flushed. "I can show you the marriage license if you like, Mr Harkness."
He roared with laughter.
"Not necessary! I can see by how tight the wedding band is on Jack's finger that he is in it for the long haul. But the one I really came to see..."
"I'll leave you and Jack to your conference."
"..is that charming little tyke."
"Zara?"
"Is there another one around here? I have something for her."

Jack and Honour exchanged looks.
"Will, you aren't exactly grandpa material. One time you told me the only way you like children is with butter and a bit of garlic!" 
He waved his hand. "Don't go all sentimental on me, but I have something for her."
Honour looked at Jack and then said "She is in the garden with Mrs Avery but I will get her."

As she left, Harkness couldn't help but give her a sweep of his eyes.
He turned to Jack. "I am surprised you didn't pick a woman of the Spanish persuasion. I knew your penchant for them. Or had the saintly Mercedes cured you of that?"
Jack poured each of them a brandy and handed one to Will.
"You  never know what will fall into your lap, Will. It was magical."
Honour came into the room with Zara holding her hand. In the little toddler's hand were a bunch of wildflowers.
"I'm afraid she is a bit dirty but Jack and I believe that children should do what children do best. Play and get dirty."

Zara broke free from her mother's grasp and walked over to Harkness. She handed him her flowers. Will knelt down to her.
"What have we here, young miss? For me?"
She looked at him with guileless blue eyes and gave him a smile.
'Well, then, Uncle Will has something for you too."
He opened a box and inside was a solitary sapphire ring.
He took her little hand and spread her fingers. Gently he put the ring on her finger, as big as it was.

Softly he said, "I had this ring for a long time, Zara. And someday I knew there would be a special girl I would give this to. You gave me cookies and you shared your cat with me and that was very unselfish of you. No one ever did that for me before. So if it is alright with your  mummy and daddy, maybe they can keep this ring for you until you grow into it. And you will always remember that it pays to be generous."

Honour said, "Mr Harkness, really, we can't accept---"
"Oh yes you will. Now I don't want you to think I am using your child to convince Jack one way or the other. I was just touched by such a lovely child. I don't usually get women who give me something for nothing. Keep it for her as a gift from Uncle Will."
"Thank you, Mr. Harkness. I can see you do know how to spoil a woman! Even one that is only a year and a half."

Will got to his feet and looked at Jack.
"You are a fortunate man, Jack Wolfe. As am I. We both came out of this life as old pirates but alive pirates. And now.....are you ready to talk a little business?"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

"That I am, Will," replied Jack with a smile. But he paused when he noticed the look of concern on Honour's face.
"Why don't you go on into the study," he continued. "I'll be along in just a moment. You know where the good liquor is."
"That I do, lad," said Harkness as he walked toward the study will little hesitation. "Don't tarry! I want to conclude our agreement as soon as possible."
Jack and Honour waited until Harkness was inside the study, and they heard the first clink of crystal.
"Jack, we can't accept this ring!" whispered Honour. "It's far too extravagant, especially for a baby."
"Honour, I'm as surprised as you by this turn of generosity. More so, I'm sure. I've never seen this side of him before. But I know Will, and we're accepting the gift."
"But..."
"But nothing, love. It's evidently important to him that she have it, so we'll put it away somewhere safe until she's old enough to appreciate it."
"All right. As long as you're sure," she said reluctantly.
"I'm positive. Now, time to give Will the news he's waiting for." Jack gave Honour a kiss. "You know, he's definitely right about one thing."
"What's that?"
"I am one very, very fortunate man!"
Jack stepped into the study to find Harkness with a drink in one hand, and one of the gold statues in the other. The elder man looked up and gave a chuckle.
"Good lord, but these things are hideous. I can't wait until you find what treasure trove they came from."
"Don't worry, it's on my to do list," smiled Jack. "Now Will, about that ring."
"What about it?" said Harkness as he put the statue back in its place. "Too extravagant for one so young? Well, of course it is."
"For starters. It's a lovely gesture, one we do appreciate. But you didn't have to do it."
"Damned right I didn't. I did it because I wanted to." He paused to take a sip of his drink. "That little girl of yours, Jack... she's something special. Never forget that. And I'll tell you another thing. She's going to steal some lucky young man's heart away from the sea. Just like her mother did."

Jack poured himself some brandy. "It took me a while to realise just how lucky I was to find Honour."
"I know. Most of the Caribbean knows. And for all our sakes, I hope the man who falls for Zara isn't nearly as dense as you were."
Jack gave him a surprised look, then started to laugh. "I guess I was pretty intent on finding her..."
"Intent? Try obsessed. But it's easy to see why. I'm happy for you, Jack. Very happy indeed." Harkness settled back into one of the leather chairs. "Now, how happy will I continue to be today? That one is up to you."
"Thank you for not putting a heavy burden on my shoulder, Will," replied Jack with a smirk.
He sat down behind his desk and casually set about rearranging some papers. Finally, Harkness began to fidget impatiently. Satisfied that he has strung his mentor on long enough, Jack folded his hand on his desk and smiled.
"The answer is yes."
"And?" asked Harkness flatly. Jack was caught off guard by Will's reply. "And, what? What else is there?"
"How soon can you start supplying me?"
"Oh, that."
"Yes, that. When?"
"Honour and I project that our first shipment can be delivered in eighteen months."
"Eighteen?! I know you have a lot of ground to make up, but that will never do. Fourteen months, or I go elsewhere."
"You drive a hard bargain, Will. Not a plant in the ground, and you want molasses on your doorstep in that amount of time?"

"Jack, I would rather do business with you than anyone else in the Caribbean. But I have an enterprise to run."
Jack bit his lip and sighed. "Fourteen months it is."
"That's more like it! I'm stockpiled with enough molasses for the next year. It shouldn't be too difficult to lay in another couple of months worth."
"You'll have your molasses by then, I guarantee it."
"Good. Now, about El Lobo and her crew...."
"What is this about my ship?"
Both Jack and Harkness looked up into the jovial face of Josiah Briggs.
Jack frowned, "Your ship, Josiah? YOUR ship?'
Briggs sat down and grinned. To Harkness, he said, "That always gets his goat! As Captain J. Briggs, I consider her my ship."
"When she is at sea, maybe. When she is in port, she is MY ship."
Exasperated, Harkness said, "Do I have to knock your heads together like I did that time in Antigua?"
Jack shook his head. "That was over a woman. This is far more serious!"
"Well, if ye hadn't cut in the way ye did," protested Briggs.
"Oi, try to dabble in redheads just once, and you never hear the end of it," Jack said with an exaggerated roll of his eyes.
"All right, all right, you two!" laughed Harkness. "It's good to see time hasn't soured your friendship any. And it's good to have the two of you working for me again."
"Working WITH you," Jack corrected. "This is a contract relationship, right?"
Harkness held up his hand. "A slip of the tongue, I assure you. Yes, working WITH the two of you again."
"Well, I don't rightly remember sayin' yes, yet," said Briggs.

"Oh, that's right," said Jack. "We're getting ahead of ourselves. What is your answer to Will's proposal, Captain Briggs?"
Briggs tried to hide a smile at the sound of the title 'captain'.
"I'll agree to haul molasses and rum between here and the Virgina colony..."
"Good! Now that that's settled," interrupted Harkness.
Briggs held up a finger. "With one stipulation."
Jack cocked an eyebrow. "And what's the stipulation?"
"Phillip, come on in, lad."
Phillip Briggs walked into the study with the three men and gave a self-conscious smile.
"That my son, Phillip, serves as captain's mate. It's time he learns about the sea good and proper."
Jack smiled at the pride he saw in his friend's face. "Will, do you have any objections?"
"She's not exactly my ship, so my opinion wouldn't matter one way or the other. But I think it's a fine idea."
"Good answers, all," said Jack. "Now, Phillip, how does it sound to you?"
Phillip cleared his throat and stood tall beside his father. "I'd be proud to serve with my father, Mister Wolfe. We have a lot of catching up to do."
"Well, then. I'd say we have a contract!" said Jack happily. He got up and fetched a bottle of brandy and some glasses. As he began to pour, he looked at Josiah.
"It's all right for Phillip to join us in a toast?"
"Aye, fine by me. He's a grown man, and soon to be a fine sailor."
Just then a crash came from the kitchen and a small voice yelled, "BOLLX!"
Briggs and Phillip stifled a laugh, and Harkness looked at Jack in surprise.
"We've really got to clean up her vocabulary," he winced.
Harkness roared with laughter, "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, eh, Jack?"
Jack yelled into the kitchen, "Giver her a cookie to keep her mouth busy, Honour."
Honour came out with a spoon in her hand and shook it at Jack. "It's all your fault!"
With that she flounced back into the kitchen and Jack laughed, "Oh, the life of domesticity!"
He finished pouring, and handed the glasses around. "Gentlemen, to the Company!"

[Captain Jack Wolfe]

Honour sat at her desk in the alcove off their bedroom, sketching plans.
'If I move the greenhouse to the left, I can put in more herbs over there.....maybe lemon balm here....lavender over there.....more sun.'
She reached for her book on herbal medicine.
'Oooh here is one.  'Damiana'....let's see if that would be practical.'
Her fingers skimmed down the page.

'Damiana..... stimulating effect on libido,, and its use as an aphrodisiac...evidence of increased sexual activity of both sexes. Damiana has been shown to be particularly stimulating for sexually exhausted or impotent males.'

Her eyes grew wide and she slammed the book shut.  'Alright....no damiana. At least not now.' She felt her face get warm at the thoughts of her and Jack's romantic wine and cheese dinner on the balcony.
'So there was a full moon....and an ocean breeze. It's no sin. I'm married....'
Then she giggled and opened the French doors and looked outside. 'Another full moon and a summer night....'

She suddenly felt the need to go see Jack in his office. To tell him of her list of herbs she wanted to plant and the plans for making a small greenhouse and distillery for elixirs in the northwest corner.

As she paused by the door, she heard the low sounds of expletives and peeked her head in.
"Jack Wolfe, whatever is going on in here?"
There sat her husband with stacks of papers and ledgers scattered on his desk with invoices.

Jack scowled in frustration at the documents that threatened to bury his desk. He sighed heavily and leaned back in his chair.
"What's going on? Just me failing miserably is all."
She walked to his side and began looking at the papers. Many of the pages looked to be attempts a writing out work schedules, but they all bore a striking similarity; each one was incomplete and scratched through with a heavy "X".

"This is going to be the death of me," he said balefully. "Or the thing that finally does drive me mad."
"Then it's a good thing you already have the nickname established."
"Very funny. You know, setting up watch rotations and the like was never this hard aboard ship. But every time I try to do the same for the plantation, I find I've overlooked a dozen things."
Honour thought for a moment. "Maybe you're looking at things the wrong way round? A plantation is nothing like a ship, yes? Perhaps you are trying to force it into a mould that doesn't fit."
Jack rubbed his eyes and stared at his desk a few moments. "You're probably right. I have to find a different way to approach this, because I don't mind saying that I am out of my depth here."
"Then take a break. You've been staring at this all evening. You'll see things more clearly in the morning with fresh eyes."
"Fresh eyes, and no screaming headache." Jack took her hand in his. "How did I ever get so lucky as to have you as my wife?"
"It wasn't all that clean living you had done before we met."

"Oh, everyone's a critic," he said with a smile. "That's it, then. Time to turn in for the night. Oh, was there something you wanted to tell me? You had that look when you came in the room."
"Nothing that won't wait for breakfast. You go on upstairs. I'll join you shortly."
"That's the best thing I've heard all night!"
"And what about your headache, Mister Wolfe?"
"Headache? Funny, it seems to have vanished."
"And you used to be such a good liar. Off to bed with you!"
"For you, my love, anything." He gave her a wink and went to the stairs.

Honour looked again at the mountain of papers on her husband's desk, and tapped her foot as she thought.
"He may be too proud to ask for help, but I think I know just who to talk to about this..."

[Welsh Wench]

Honour heard more mumbling and peeked into the study.
"Is it going any better this morning?"
Jack looked up, his hair disheveled from running his fingers through it.
She giggled.
"What's so funny?"
"You. Looking there with your hair all mussed up, I just got an image of what our son will look like."
"Honour! Why didn't you tell me? You had ample opportunity last night."
"What? What are you talking about?"
"You. Me. Our wolf-pack adding a new wolf-cub! Darling, I am ecstatic!"
She held her hand up.
"Whoa! Just hold on, pirate! You think I am with powder monkey? Sorry to disappoint you but no. Not yet."

He slumped down in his chair.
"I don't get it. I would have thought by now...."
"Don't rush it. We are just getting this thing off the ground and there is time for that later."
"Honour, I am thirty-seven now. I would at least like to live long enough to see them grown."
She kissed him and winked.
"Alright we discuss it tonight, alright?"
"As long as it is horizontally, you have a deal. Now where are you going?"

She picked up her riding gloves.
"I'm taking Ebony out for some exercise. I think I will look over the pasture land by the far edge of the woods. A perfect place for a vineyard maybe. Just think of it, Jack---our own wine! We may be branching out!"
"Wait and I will go with you."
She pushed her finger into his chest.
"No. You are not using this as an excuse to leave your work. Besides, I do require some 'alone' time. As much as I love you, Jack Wolfe, I need time to myself."
He kissed her gloved hand and said, "Just be careful and take a pistol with you. You never know what marauders may be lurking."
She pointed her finger at him and blew him a kiss.

She rode behind the establishment and threw her reins to the stableboy.
Tossing him a shilling, she walked up to the house.
'Door choices. Obviously not that one.' She moved to the front of the house and knocked.
"Bonjour, mademoiselle. You are here for an interview? You may be just what Madame wants. Someone wholesome with an English face and-----"
Honour laughed.
"I'm Welsh. And I am not here for an interview."
"Domage, mademoiselle. Sometimes we get a bit weary and would like a break. Supply and demand, all that...."
"Is Madame Renee at home?"

Before she could answer, a voice behind her said, "No, she is out at the moment. But will I do for a visit?"

Honour turned around and beamed,"Josiah Briggs--you just may be my second choice!"