About this story
He is Decimus Saxon, carrying sealed letters for Monmouth's rebellion against King James, and he talks his way into your father's cottage at Havant under a hail of suspicion. The letter proves three days old, urging supporters to horse, and sets your father's old wound against your mother's fear. Before Saxon's invitation can be settled, a rider brings word that Monmouth has landed at Lyme.
How it opens
May sunset cut scarlet lanes behind the Isle of Wight as your borrowed boat rode at anchor.
Reuben LockarbyThe bass have joined the King's service, Micah; none will answer our lines.
A Dutch brig tacked nearby, sails flapping as figures struggled across her slanted deck.
Reuben LockarbyThat crew is either mutinying or rehearsing a very expensive dance.
Choose
Raise the anchor. Someone may be hurt where the brig just fired.
Signal the King's ship before the brig escapes Bembridge Point.