*Insert Disclaimers here(...............)*
Thanks to Hils, Linnie and Caffeine fairy for their reviews, the rest of you are slacking – down to the brig with you! :p
Chapter 28
'Cap'n, Maddy! Welcome back.' Eb helped Maddy down from the carriage, then went around the back to fetch the trunk. 'Did you have a good time?'
'Oh yes Eb, a wonderful time, thank you.' Maddy hugged Daniel who had come to greet them. 'Can't wait to get home though,' she said. Eb and Daniel joined her and Jack and filled them in on all that had happened, as they walked to Will and Elizabeth's house, glad out the exercise to ease their aching muscles. The Turners were in the process of moving the bits of furniture they'd brought with them, off The Pearl and to the house, which kept the crew occupied for most of the time, for which Eb was grateful, as they were starting to show signs of boredom, a couple of crewmen had been thrown in jail for fighting and being drunk.
'Don't worry Eb, we'll be off once we get young William a ship. We'll set sail for Nassau as soon as we can, there's bound to be some ships going, fer the whelp to choose from there.' Jack was relieved that there wasn't more trouble.
Maddy smiled at Jack's concern for Will and Elizabeth's well being, she had realised a long time ago, that he saw them as kin and would do anything for them. The group walked up the drive and were greeted by a maid, who cautiously allowed them in, wondering whether the Turners were to sort of people she wanted to work for, if this was the company they kept.
Jack, Maddy! Come on in, it's good to see you, did you have a good time?' Will bounded down the stairs and embraced his friends, a big grin on his face. 'Come on, let me show you around.' He led them on a tour of the house, which was still sparsely furnished, but liveable in at least. 'Elizabeth is out with the children, making new friends.'
'That's good mate, shows she's settling in. Listen, how about we sail for Nassau tomorrow, should reach there in a coupla days?' Jack grinned at Will's excitement. He hadn't realised how hard being married to the Governors daughter had been for Will, at least now they could live on a more equal footing, without Will being judged for being too lowly.
'That's sounds great Jack, I can't wait to get back on the sea again. There are quite a few men who would be interested in working for me and there should be a fair bit of work too, transporting foodstuffs like sugar, fish and fruit.'
'That's good Will, but I still reckon you could make a better livin' in Nassau.' Jack noticed Maddy was looking tired and clapped Will on the back. 'I'll see ya tomorrow mate, savvy?'
'Aye Jack, tomorrow. Look, thanks for everything.' Will shoved his hands in his pockets and hunched his shoulders, looking extremely embarrassed. 'I don't know what I would have done without you.'
'Ah fer Pete's sake whelp, you'll have me in tears in a minute,' Jack teased, a smile splitting his face. 'Come on wifey, time we were getting home.' Jack took Maddy's arm and led her out of the door, winking at the maid as they passed. 'Bye luv,' he grinned at the woman saucily, then winced as Maddy's elbow found its target in his ribs.
***********
Maddy eyed the approaching landmass with trepidation. 'Are you sure it's safe you sailing to Nassau after you raided it *twice*?' She looked dubiously at her husband, wondering if he'd bitten off more than he could chew.
'Course it's safe luv, but if it makes yer happy, we'll weigh anchor around the coast an' row in, savvy?' Jack rolled his eyes, certain that Maddy was overreacting.
'Yes it would make me happier Jack. I don't fancy you being arrested, I wish you would take things a little more seriously.'
'Madalene, I've come this far without being hung, now stop yer worrying, yer drivin' me mad.' Jack frowned at his wife then waved her away, wanting some peace and quiet.
Maddy glared at Jack for a few seconds more, then turned on her heels and stomped off, muttering under her breath.
'You'll never change him Maddy, so don't waste your time trying to.' Will smiled at Maddy, although he was a little surprised at her attitude.
'I don't want to change him Will, I just wish he'd realise the danger sometimes.' Maddy smiled ruefully. 'Am I starting to sound like a nag?'
Will laughed and nodded, 'I'm afraid so. Jack realises the danger more than most, but he doesn't let it worry him, he prefers to react to the there and then, rather than mull over what might happen.'
'I know Will, I've just been a little jittery after that storm. I'll go and fetch him some rum, that'll cheer him up.' Maddy left Will and made her way to the cabin, seeking out Jack's hoard of rum. She looked up at the cry of land sighted, and made her way quickly back onto the deck. 'Here Jack, I'm sorry I've been on at you.'
Jack smiled crookedly at Maddy, accepting the rum gratefully. 'Ta luv, an' it's all right, it's nice 'aving' someone worry fer me.' Jack held out his arm then wrapped it around Maddy's waist as she snuggled into him. 'Might stay around t'Bahamas, what d'ya say?'
'What about South America? I thought you were looking forward to going there.' Maddy didn't really mind where they went, so long as they stayed away from trouble. To her relief, they hadn't raided a ship or port in weeks.
'Nah, that can wait. We'll stick around here fer a while, there's no dominant pirate ship since Bu.....' Jack stopped himself just in time.
'It's all right Jack, you can say his name.' Maddy tried to supress a shuddler, but failed. She sighed, knowing Jack would have felt it. 'All right, maybe you can't.' Maddy shrugged, ruefully.
'I'm sorry luv, I never thought.' Jack kissed the nape of Maddy's neck, deciding a change of subject was needed. 'Besides, someone's gotta look out fer the whelp.'
Maddy laughed, pressing harder into Jack. 'Don't let Will know that, he'd have your guts for garters!' They stayed together at the helm, guiding the ship to a small inlet, around the coast from Nassau port. Jack hadn't wanted to row all the way around, but conceded to himself, that maybe Maddy was right about avoiding taking The Pearl right into port.
*******************
Maddy watched from the bow of the boat, as Nassau port got closer. She'd managed to persuade Jack to tone down his image a little so he didn't look quite so much like a pirate. Maddy stole a glance at him and smiled to herself. 'He really scrubs up well,' she mused. She'd tied his braids back, scrubbed his hands clean and made sure he dressed decently, shutting her ears to his moans and whinges. Maddy smiled at Jack who'd noticed her watching him.
'What? Dontcha recognise yer own husband any more luv?' Jack winked, a cheeky smile playing on his lips.
'Well, I was starting to think maybe you were his better looking brother!' Maddy bobbed her tongue out at him, then squealed as he moved across the boat, threatening to tip her over the side.
They drew curious glances from people in boats and ships as they rowed towards the docks, Jack waving with a flourish at all of them, making Maddy laugh and Will roll his eyes. Jack jumped ashore and helped Maddy out, then pulled Will along as the younger man was already eyeing up the ships in the harbour. 'Let's find out what's available first, savvy? I know just the place ter go, if he's still around that is.'
The made their way to a tavern, ordered a jug of ale and sat at a table situated in the middle of the room, so they could see what was happening and also keep a listen out for any news.
'Well, well, look what the cat dragged in! You've got a nerve showing yer face around here Jack Sparrow.' Maddy held her breath and glanced around at a fierce looking man, approaching them.
'Well, ya know, I was just passin' an' I thought I'd drop in an' see how things lay. Besides, I got business in town, not that it's any o'your's mate.' Jack's voice had dropped an octave, making it sound menacing.
'Mate? Mate! Ha, don't make me laugh, not after the stunt ya pulled last time yer were here Sparrow.' The man leaned over the table, his face very close to Jack's.
'You're only jealous cos I made off wi'more than you did Nate. 'Sides, what're you doin' 'ere? Thought they were after your blood more than they were after mine.'
'I got friends in high places Sparrow, unlike you.' Nate pulled up a seat and sat down, eyeing Jack suspiciously. 'So what business brings ya here?'
'I'm after a ship.'
'What sort?'
'A large hulled one, it'll be carryin' a lot of cargo.'
'So, ya lost The Pearl again?' Nate chuckled at his joke.
'Nah mate, it's not fer me, it's fer William here.' Jack tipped his mug in Will's direction. 'Settin' up his own business an' needs a ship.'
'Pirate?' Nate studied Will intently, then glanced at Maddy. 'An' what do ya need ter bring yer wife along for? He asked Will.
'She ain't his wife, she's mine. An' no, Will's not a pirate.' Jack drawled, smiling into his mug.
'YOUR'S! Bloody hell Sparrow, I never thought I'd see you married.' Nate shook his head, a gap toothed grin spread across his face. He looked back at Will, frowning. 'Have we met before son?'
'He's Bootstraps' lad.' Jack glanced at Will, his eyes telling the younger man to keep quiet.
Nate spluttered his drink out, choking back a cough. 'Bleedin' 'ell, he's the image of 'im.' Will smiled thinly, used to the reaction when people found out who his father was. 'Shame 'bout Bootstrap, good man he was.'
'Aye, that he was. Now, d'ya know of a ship or not Nate?' Jack leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.
'Aye, I know of a couple actually. Ole man Davies died last month, he ran a small shipping company an' he got no heirs ter pass the business on to, so 'is widow is sellin' up. O'course, I'd have a cut fer introducin' ya an' all.' Nate folded his arms and regarded Will and Jack.
'No sale, no cut Nate. What sort o'ships are they?' Jack narrowed his eyes, so Nate couldn't see the interest in them.
'They're Dutch Fleuts, not that heavily armed, but are pretty quick in the water. I can take yer up ter Widow Davies now if yer like.' Nate stood, his large frame shrinking the room.
Jack nodded and downed his ale as he stood. He led Maddy out of the tavern, keeping himself between her and Nate. 'How far is it Nate?'
'Bout half a mile out of town.' The big man stode ahead, which Jack was grateful for.
'Will, let me do the talking, savvy? An' keep yer guard up, I don't trust Nate Keating as far as I could throw The Pearl. Madalene, you got yer dagger?'
Maddy looked sharply at the unexpected question. 'Yes, of course I have Jack. You don't think I'll need it do you?' Maddy's unease grew rapidly.
'Nah, course not luv, but ya don't know where Nate's taking us, so be prepared darlin.' Jack squeezed her arm reassuringly. He looked up at Nate, who'd stopped outside a house, tapping his foot impatiently. 'Yer ferget mate, one step fer you is half a dozen fer normal sized people.' Nate shrugged and walked up the path, hammering on the door when he reached it.
'We're here t'see the widow,' he growled at the butler who opened the door, stepping back when faced with Nate, fear showing in his eyes.
'W-what is your business with Mrs Davies?' He stammered, wondering if he'd be quick enough to slam the door.
'We're here about a ship,' Jack elbowed his way past Nate and smiled at the butler. 'If you could tell Mrs Davies that Captain Jack Sparrow is here to see her.'
'I'll inform her that you're here. Please wait there.' The butler shut the door firmly, returning a couple of minutes later to allow them in. 'Follow me, she is in the drawing room.' They were led across the hall, into a spacious room, with French windows all along one wall. 'Captain Sparrow and companions Madam.' The butler bowed as he retired to a corner of the room, not wishing to leave his mistress alone with the strangers.
'All right Fellowes, you may leave us.' Esme Davies stood and faced her guests, taking in at once that they were pirates, though she was very surprised to see a woman with them. 'I understand you are interested in my late husbands' ships? Well, I'm very sorry, but I will not sell them to pirates and scoundrels.'
'Ah, I can well understand your concern Mrs Davies, I'll bet yer late husband had a lot of trouble with piracy.' Jack walked across the room, standing in front of the small woman. 'But yer see, it's not fer me, it's fer William Turner here. He and his wife are hoping to make a new life in Freetown and he wants ter set up his own shipping company, just around t'islands, so ya'll probably see him from time to time. 'An take it from me luv, he's as honest as the day is long.' Jack flashed her a golden smile, making her raise her eyebrows in surprise.
'I see......., how do I know you're telling the truth? You could just be spinning me a line in order to get the ships.' Esme Davies pursed her lips, a look of determination written on her face.
'Ah luv, if I'd wanted yer 'usbands ships that badly, I would've stolen them, savvy?'
Will let out an audible groan and Maddy's eyes widened in horror. Surely Jack had blown it? Esme looked at the people standing beyond the pirate in front of her, then back to him, looking into his eyes and liking the spark she saw in them. 'Indeed you would have Captain Sparrow. Well, I was hoping to sell both together, although I have been advised that might not be possible. Would Mr Turner be looking to purchase two ships?' Esme looked at Will once more.
'I, erm, I'm not sure. I wasn't thinking of it, I don't know how trade will be. I might not even have enough custom for one ship.' Will ran his hand through his hair.
'Well Mr Turner, if you are indeed as honest as Captain Sparrow says you are, I might be able to help you. The trade is there, my husbands customers are finding it hard to get anyone else as reliable and many of my husbands crewmen are still out of work, some are thinking of going to Tortuga and becoming pirates.' She shot Jack a look with the last word.
'I thank you for your kind offer, but I was hoping to settle in Freetown, we've bought a house there and besides, I cannot afford to purchase two ships.' Will was starting to feel frustrated. 'Will you not consider selling the ships individually?'
'Hold on, hold on, whelp. The trade's there ya say luv?' Esme nodded, watching in fascination as Jack stroked his beard braids. 'Hmmm, that's interesting, that's very interesting. Would there be a problem Will working out of Freetown?'
'I don't see why, my Thomas was all over the place, but people knew he was reliable and that's what they want. If Will were to come to Nassau, say, two or three times a month, then he could take the bookings and make arrangements and if he had two ships, with a reliable captain on the second ship, it would make things so much easier.' Esme knew she was reeling them in. 'I'd be more than happy to help out, take the bookings myself if necessary.' She looked at Will and gave a little smile of encouragement.
'I still cannot afford two ships.' The regret sounded heavy in Will's voice, the set-up sounded ideal.
'What if I were ter give ya the money, so ya can get both ships?' Jack looked sideways at Will, his eyes glinting.
'No Jack, I want to do this on my own. I don't want a partnership, or anything like that.'
'Nah, not a partnership mate, more like a shareholding, savvy? I put money into yer business an' I get a cut of yer profit.' Jack raised his eyebrows and cocked his head to one side. 'What say you?'
'You'd interfere with the running of it Jack, I know you too well.' Will frowned, his jaw clenched in determination.
'Interfere? Nah Will, I don't intend hanging around long enough to interfere with anythin.' I'll drop by every now an' then, like I always do, an' pick up me share.'
Will ran his hand through his hair again, undecided as to whether this was a good idea or not. Much as he loved Jack like a brother, he still didn't entirely trust him, even after all these years. Some might say *especially* after all these years.
Nate shifted on his feet, feeling bored by the conversation. 'What ya got to lose son? Come on, get on wi'it.'
Will looked around at Nate, then at Maddy, then turned back to Jack. 'I'd be the boss?' Jack nodded. 'If I make a decision that you don't agree with, you won't give me hell over it and try and change my mind?' Jack hesitated before nodding again. 'If I want a written contract, you'll agree to that?' Jack frowned and opened his mouth to protest, then looked at the steely glint in Will's eyes and thought better of it and nodded once more. Will sighed, wishing he'd got Elizabeth here to talk things over with. He walked to the window and looked out on the garden, hands thrust in his pockets.
'Do we have an accord William?' Jack stood besides him, hand outstretched.
'Aye, we have an accord.' Will shook his friends hand, a grin slowly creeping across his face. 'I'm going to regret this, I just know it.' He teased, releasing Jack's hand and shook Esme Davies' hand. 'Thank you, Mrs Davies.'
'Don't thank me too soon lad, there's still the price to negotiate yet.' She was looking forward to bartering with Jack, knowing he would push her as hard as she would push him. 'I'll get Fellowes to bring some tea in, I'm sure your wife must be thirsty.'
'Ah, she's my wife actually luv.' Jack smiled crookedly, trying not to look at the silver and fine furnishings around the room.
'Oh, that's a pity. If I were a little younger, I might be tempted to run away to sea with you Captain Sparrow.' Esme gave Maddy a sly wink, drawing a smile from the younger woman, then rang a handbell, bringing the butler back into the room..
'If yer were a little younger luv, ya wouldn't have any choice cos I'd kidnap ya.' Jack took Esme's hand and kissed it profusely, grinning at the look of outrage he got from the servant.
'Ah, Fellowes, bring some tea for these people please.' She withdrew her hand from Jack's grasp, rather reluctantly and opened the French doors, indicating for everyone to follow her outside.
'I do enjoy the warm sunshine. It's better than dull, grey England, don't you think my dear?' Esme took Maddy's arm and led her around the garden, making small talk, leaving the men in deep discussion.
**********
Authors' notes.
After a little research for Will's ships, I came across the Dutch Fleut, which was a flat bottomed, broad ship, that was only 80 feet in length, which could be crewed by a minimum of twelve men, which suited my story perfectly!
Thanks to Hils, Linnie and Caffeine fairy for their reviews, the rest of you are slacking – down to the brig with you! :p
Chapter 28
'Cap'n, Maddy! Welcome back.' Eb helped Maddy down from the carriage, then went around the back to fetch the trunk. 'Did you have a good time?'
'Oh yes Eb, a wonderful time, thank you.' Maddy hugged Daniel who had come to greet them. 'Can't wait to get home though,' she said. Eb and Daniel joined her and Jack and filled them in on all that had happened, as they walked to Will and Elizabeth's house, glad out the exercise to ease their aching muscles. The Turners were in the process of moving the bits of furniture they'd brought with them, off The Pearl and to the house, which kept the crew occupied for most of the time, for which Eb was grateful, as they were starting to show signs of boredom, a couple of crewmen had been thrown in jail for fighting and being drunk.
'Don't worry Eb, we'll be off once we get young William a ship. We'll set sail for Nassau as soon as we can, there's bound to be some ships going, fer the whelp to choose from there.' Jack was relieved that there wasn't more trouble.
Maddy smiled at Jack's concern for Will and Elizabeth's well being, she had realised a long time ago, that he saw them as kin and would do anything for them. The group walked up the drive and were greeted by a maid, who cautiously allowed them in, wondering whether the Turners were to sort of people she wanted to work for, if this was the company they kept.
Jack, Maddy! Come on in, it's good to see you, did you have a good time?' Will bounded down the stairs and embraced his friends, a big grin on his face. 'Come on, let me show you around.' He led them on a tour of the house, which was still sparsely furnished, but liveable in at least. 'Elizabeth is out with the children, making new friends.'
'That's good mate, shows she's settling in. Listen, how about we sail for Nassau tomorrow, should reach there in a coupla days?' Jack grinned at Will's excitement. He hadn't realised how hard being married to the Governors daughter had been for Will, at least now they could live on a more equal footing, without Will being judged for being too lowly.
'That's sounds great Jack, I can't wait to get back on the sea again. There are quite a few men who would be interested in working for me and there should be a fair bit of work too, transporting foodstuffs like sugar, fish and fruit.'
'That's good Will, but I still reckon you could make a better livin' in Nassau.' Jack noticed Maddy was looking tired and clapped Will on the back. 'I'll see ya tomorrow mate, savvy?'
'Aye Jack, tomorrow. Look, thanks for everything.' Will shoved his hands in his pockets and hunched his shoulders, looking extremely embarrassed. 'I don't know what I would have done without you.'
'Ah fer Pete's sake whelp, you'll have me in tears in a minute,' Jack teased, a smile splitting his face. 'Come on wifey, time we were getting home.' Jack took Maddy's arm and led her out of the door, winking at the maid as they passed. 'Bye luv,' he grinned at the woman saucily, then winced as Maddy's elbow found its target in his ribs.
***********
Maddy eyed the approaching landmass with trepidation. 'Are you sure it's safe you sailing to Nassau after you raided it *twice*?' She looked dubiously at her husband, wondering if he'd bitten off more than he could chew.
'Course it's safe luv, but if it makes yer happy, we'll weigh anchor around the coast an' row in, savvy?' Jack rolled his eyes, certain that Maddy was overreacting.
'Yes it would make me happier Jack. I don't fancy you being arrested, I wish you would take things a little more seriously.'
'Madalene, I've come this far without being hung, now stop yer worrying, yer drivin' me mad.' Jack frowned at his wife then waved her away, wanting some peace and quiet.
Maddy glared at Jack for a few seconds more, then turned on her heels and stomped off, muttering under her breath.
'You'll never change him Maddy, so don't waste your time trying to.' Will smiled at Maddy, although he was a little surprised at her attitude.
'I don't want to change him Will, I just wish he'd realise the danger sometimes.' Maddy smiled ruefully. 'Am I starting to sound like a nag?'
Will laughed and nodded, 'I'm afraid so. Jack realises the danger more than most, but he doesn't let it worry him, he prefers to react to the there and then, rather than mull over what might happen.'
'I know Will, I've just been a little jittery after that storm. I'll go and fetch him some rum, that'll cheer him up.' Maddy left Will and made her way to the cabin, seeking out Jack's hoard of rum. She looked up at the cry of land sighted, and made her way quickly back onto the deck. 'Here Jack, I'm sorry I've been on at you.'
Jack smiled crookedly at Maddy, accepting the rum gratefully. 'Ta luv, an' it's all right, it's nice 'aving' someone worry fer me.' Jack held out his arm then wrapped it around Maddy's waist as she snuggled into him. 'Might stay around t'Bahamas, what d'ya say?'
'What about South America? I thought you were looking forward to going there.' Maddy didn't really mind where they went, so long as they stayed away from trouble. To her relief, they hadn't raided a ship or port in weeks.
'Nah, that can wait. We'll stick around here fer a while, there's no dominant pirate ship since Bu.....' Jack stopped himself just in time.
'It's all right Jack, you can say his name.' Maddy tried to supress a shuddler, but failed. She sighed, knowing Jack would have felt it. 'All right, maybe you can't.' Maddy shrugged, ruefully.
'I'm sorry luv, I never thought.' Jack kissed the nape of Maddy's neck, deciding a change of subject was needed. 'Besides, someone's gotta look out fer the whelp.'
Maddy laughed, pressing harder into Jack. 'Don't let Will know that, he'd have your guts for garters!' They stayed together at the helm, guiding the ship to a small inlet, around the coast from Nassau port. Jack hadn't wanted to row all the way around, but conceded to himself, that maybe Maddy was right about avoiding taking The Pearl right into port.
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Maddy watched from the bow of the boat, as Nassau port got closer. She'd managed to persuade Jack to tone down his image a little so he didn't look quite so much like a pirate. Maddy stole a glance at him and smiled to herself. 'He really scrubs up well,' she mused. She'd tied his braids back, scrubbed his hands clean and made sure he dressed decently, shutting her ears to his moans and whinges. Maddy smiled at Jack who'd noticed her watching him.
'What? Dontcha recognise yer own husband any more luv?' Jack winked, a cheeky smile playing on his lips.
'Well, I was starting to think maybe you were his better looking brother!' Maddy bobbed her tongue out at him, then squealed as he moved across the boat, threatening to tip her over the side.
They drew curious glances from people in boats and ships as they rowed towards the docks, Jack waving with a flourish at all of them, making Maddy laugh and Will roll his eyes. Jack jumped ashore and helped Maddy out, then pulled Will along as the younger man was already eyeing up the ships in the harbour. 'Let's find out what's available first, savvy? I know just the place ter go, if he's still around that is.'
The made their way to a tavern, ordered a jug of ale and sat at a table situated in the middle of the room, so they could see what was happening and also keep a listen out for any news.
'Well, well, look what the cat dragged in! You've got a nerve showing yer face around here Jack Sparrow.' Maddy held her breath and glanced around at a fierce looking man, approaching them.
'Well, ya know, I was just passin' an' I thought I'd drop in an' see how things lay. Besides, I got business in town, not that it's any o'your's mate.' Jack's voice had dropped an octave, making it sound menacing.
'Mate? Mate! Ha, don't make me laugh, not after the stunt ya pulled last time yer were here Sparrow.' The man leaned over the table, his face very close to Jack's.
'You're only jealous cos I made off wi'more than you did Nate. 'Sides, what're you doin' 'ere? Thought they were after your blood more than they were after mine.'
'I got friends in high places Sparrow, unlike you.' Nate pulled up a seat and sat down, eyeing Jack suspiciously. 'So what business brings ya here?'
'I'm after a ship.'
'What sort?'
'A large hulled one, it'll be carryin' a lot of cargo.'
'So, ya lost The Pearl again?' Nate chuckled at his joke.
'Nah mate, it's not fer me, it's fer William here.' Jack tipped his mug in Will's direction. 'Settin' up his own business an' needs a ship.'
'Pirate?' Nate studied Will intently, then glanced at Maddy. 'An' what do ya need ter bring yer wife along for? He asked Will.
'She ain't his wife, she's mine. An' no, Will's not a pirate.' Jack drawled, smiling into his mug.
'YOUR'S! Bloody hell Sparrow, I never thought I'd see you married.' Nate shook his head, a gap toothed grin spread across his face. He looked back at Will, frowning. 'Have we met before son?'
'He's Bootstraps' lad.' Jack glanced at Will, his eyes telling the younger man to keep quiet.
Nate spluttered his drink out, choking back a cough. 'Bleedin' 'ell, he's the image of 'im.' Will smiled thinly, used to the reaction when people found out who his father was. 'Shame 'bout Bootstrap, good man he was.'
'Aye, that he was. Now, d'ya know of a ship or not Nate?' Jack leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.
'Aye, I know of a couple actually. Ole man Davies died last month, he ran a small shipping company an' he got no heirs ter pass the business on to, so 'is widow is sellin' up. O'course, I'd have a cut fer introducin' ya an' all.' Nate folded his arms and regarded Will and Jack.
'No sale, no cut Nate. What sort o'ships are they?' Jack narrowed his eyes, so Nate couldn't see the interest in them.
'They're Dutch Fleuts, not that heavily armed, but are pretty quick in the water. I can take yer up ter Widow Davies now if yer like.' Nate stood, his large frame shrinking the room.
Jack nodded and downed his ale as he stood. He led Maddy out of the tavern, keeping himself between her and Nate. 'How far is it Nate?'
'Bout half a mile out of town.' The big man stode ahead, which Jack was grateful for.
'Will, let me do the talking, savvy? An' keep yer guard up, I don't trust Nate Keating as far as I could throw The Pearl. Madalene, you got yer dagger?'
Maddy looked sharply at the unexpected question. 'Yes, of course I have Jack. You don't think I'll need it do you?' Maddy's unease grew rapidly.
'Nah, course not luv, but ya don't know where Nate's taking us, so be prepared darlin.' Jack squeezed her arm reassuringly. He looked up at Nate, who'd stopped outside a house, tapping his foot impatiently. 'Yer ferget mate, one step fer you is half a dozen fer normal sized people.' Nate shrugged and walked up the path, hammering on the door when he reached it.
'We're here t'see the widow,' he growled at the butler who opened the door, stepping back when faced with Nate, fear showing in his eyes.
'W-what is your business with Mrs Davies?' He stammered, wondering if he'd be quick enough to slam the door.
'We're here about a ship,' Jack elbowed his way past Nate and smiled at the butler. 'If you could tell Mrs Davies that Captain Jack Sparrow is here to see her.'
'I'll inform her that you're here. Please wait there.' The butler shut the door firmly, returning a couple of minutes later to allow them in. 'Follow me, she is in the drawing room.' They were led across the hall, into a spacious room, with French windows all along one wall. 'Captain Sparrow and companions Madam.' The butler bowed as he retired to a corner of the room, not wishing to leave his mistress alone with the strangers.
'All right Fellowes, you may leave us.' Esme Davies stood and faced her guests, taking in at once that they were pirates, though she was very surprised to see a woman with them. 'I understand you are interested in my late husbands' ships? Well, I'm very sorry, but I will not sell them to pirates and scoundrels.'
'Ah, I can well understand your concern Mrs Davies, I'll bet yer late husband had a lot of trouble with piracy.' Jack walked across the room, standing in front of the small woman. 'But yer see, it's not fer me, it's fer William Turner here. He and his wife are hoping to make a new life in Freetown and he wants ter set up his own shipping company, just around t'islands, so ya'll probably see him from time to time. 'An take it from me luv, he's as honest as the day is long.' Jack flashed her a golden smile, making her raise her eyebrows in surprise.
'I see......., how do I know you're telling the truth? You could just be spinning me a line in order to get the ships.' Esme Davies pursed her lips, a look of determination written on her face.
'Ah luv, if I'd wanted yer 'usbands ships that badly, I would've stolen them, savvy?'
Will let out an audible groan and Maddy's eyes widened in horror. Surely Jack had blown it? Esme looked at the people standing beyond the pirate in front of her, then back to him, looking into his eyes and liking the spark she saw in them. 'Indeed you would have Captain Sparrow. Well, I was hoping to sell both together, although I have been advised that might not be possible. Would Mr Turner be looking to purchase two ships?' Esme looked at Will once more.
'I, erm, I'm not sure. I wasn't thinking of it, I don't know how trade will be. I might not even have enough custom for one ship.' Will ran his hand through his hair.
'Well Mr Turner, if you are indeed as honest as Captain Sparrow says you are, I might be able to help you. The trade is there, my husbands customers are finding it hard to get anyone else as reliable and many of my husbands crewmen are still out of work, some are thinking of going to Tortuga and becoming pirates.' She shot Jack a look with the last word.
'I thank you for your kind offer, but I was hoping to settle in Freetown, we've bought a house there and besides, I cannot afford to purchase two ships.' Will was starting to feel frustrated. 'Will you not consider selling the ships individually?'
'Hold on, hold on, whelp. The trade's there ya say luv?' Esme nodded, watching in fascination as Jack stroked his beard braids. 'Hmmm, that's interesting, that's very interesting. Would there be a problem Will working out of Freetown?'
'I don't see why, my Thomas was all over the place, but people knew he was reliable and that's what they want. If Will were to come to Nassau, say, two or three times a month, then he could take the bookings and make arrangements and if he had two ships, with a reliable captain on the second ship, it would make things so much easier.' Esme knew she was reeling them in. 'I'd be more than happy to help out, take the bookings myself if necessary.' She looked at Will and gave a little smile of encouragement.
'I still cannot afford two ships.' The regret sounded heavy in Will's voice, the set-up sounded ideal.
'What if I were ter give ya the money, so ya can get both ships?' Jack looked sideways at Will, his eyes glinting.
'No Jack, I want to do this on my own. I don't want a partnership, or anything like that.'
'Nah, not a partnership mate, more like a shareholding, savvy? I put money into yer business an' I get a cut of yer profit.' Jack raised his eyebrows and cocked his head to one side. 'What say you?'
'You'd interfere with the running of it Jack, I know you too well.' Will frowned, his jaw clenched in determination.
'Interfere? Nah Will, I don't intend hanging around long enough to interfere with anythin.' I'll drop by every now an' then, like I always do, an' pick up me share.'
Will ran his hand through his hair again, undecided as to whether this was a good idea or not. Much as he loved Jack like a brother, he still didn't entirely trust him, even after all these years. Some might say *especially* after all these years.
Nate shifted on his feet, feeling bored by the conversation. 'What ya got to lose son? Come on, get on wi'it.'
Will looked around at Nate, then at Maddy, then turned back to Jack. 'I'd be the boss?' Jack nodded. 'If I make a decision that you don't agree with, you won't give me hell over it and try and change my mind?' Jack hesitated before nodding again. 'If I want a written contract, you'll agree to that?' Jack frowned and opened his mouth to protest, then looked at the steely glint in Will's eyes and thought better of it and nodded once more. Will sighed, wishing he'd got Elizabeth here to talk things over with. He walked to the window and looked out on the garden, hands thrust in his pockets.
'Do we have an accord William?' Jack stood besides him, hand outstretched.
'Aye, we have an accord.' Will shook his friends hand, a grin slowly creeping across his face. 'I'm going to regret this, I just know it.' He teased, releasing Jack's hand and shook Esme Davies' hand. 'Thank you, Mrs Davies.'
'Don't thank me too soon lad, there's still the price to negotiate yet.' She was looking forward to bartering with Jack, knowing he would push her as hard as she would push him. 'I'll get Fellowes to bring some tea in, I'm sure your wife must be thirsty.'
'Ah, she's my wife actually luv.' Jack smiled crookedly, trying not to look at the silver and fine furnishings around the room.
'Oh, that's a pity. If I were a little younger, I might be tempted to run away to sea with you Captain Sparrow.' Esme gave Maddy a sly wink, drawing a smile from the younger woman, then rang a handbell, bringing the butler back into the room..
'If yer were a little younger luv, ya wouldn't have any choice cos I'd kidnap ya.' Jack took Esme's hand and kissed it profusely, grinning at the look of outrage he got from the servant.
'Ah, Fellowes, bring some tea for these people please.' She withdrew her hand from Jack's grasp, rather reluctantly and opened the French doors, indicating for everyone to follow her outside.
'I do enjoy the warm sunshine. It's better than dull, grey England, don't you think my dear?' Esme took Maddy's arm and led her around the garden, making small talk, leaving the men in deep discussion.
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Authors' notes.
After a little research for Will's ships, I came across the Dutch Fleut, which was a flat bottomed, broad ship, that was only 80 feet in length, which could be crewed by a minimum of twelve men, which suited my story perfectly!