After counting her money. The sisters of charity gave her a leaving stipend of fifty dollars. Forty of it was given to her parents, and ten dollars was saved for the journey. Their tickets were paid for, but apparently, Lizzy splurged, and she can't imagine what first class cost when steerage cost a minimum of fifty dollars each. Once they arrive in New York, their hotel fee would be covered as well. That will leave her with twelve dollars to her name. Glancing at Lizzy, she stretches out on the other bed to sleep and prays that the rest of the journey will go more smoothly.
The first two days are tough for the girls as they acclimate to the roughness of the sea. Within forty-eight hours both are feeling well enough to leave the cabin.
"Lizzy, where's my skirt?" Bronnah asks the next evening when they are dressing to join the Captain for dinner in the dining hall. Usually, she wears a long dark skirt, white blouse, black shoes and cover for her hair. The Sisters were strict about the dress code.
“About that, I have another surprise for you, dove.” Lizzy opens the closet and pulls out a soft cream-colored lace walking dress with turquoise trim ribbons. “It comes with shoes and a gusseted corset.”
“It’s lovely!” Tears fill her beautiful eyes as she traces the lace and ribbons. “Elizabeth, you didn’t have to do this.” Lizzy runs to her and hugs her best friend tight.
"It's the least I can do, Bronnah. You came clear across the world with me, and I love you like a sister. Besides, you can't greet your betrothed wearing rags."
Bronnah laughs and wipes her tears, "Lizzy, we came together, you don't owe me anything, but it's gorgeous, and I won't say no to it."
“Good, because I had three more made and one evening gown!” Lizzy laughs in delight at the look of shock on her face. “The trunk is in storage with your name on it.”
They dress with laughter and excitement and Lizzy gasps when Bronnah is finally ready. “Look at you! Surely, they will be fighting over us!” Bronnah allows her to curl and pin her hair up.
She glances at the reflection in the mirror and doesn't recognize the young woman staring back at her. Her light blonde hair is in beautiful curls and pinned up on the sides. A blush of excitement covers her pale skin, and her green eyes glisten with hope.
“Thank you, Elizabeth. I never imagined…,” Bronnah turns to her.
“That’s because you were forced to hide your beauty, well no more. I plan on having the pick of these men,” Lizzy snaps.
“I’m nearly afraid to ask, but I’m curious. Where did you get the money for all of this, Elizabeth?”
A flush of embarrassment stains her cheeks, “I told mother that I needed a trousseau for my honeymoon. You can’t imagine how generous they were once they thought I was going through with it.”
“I hope you saved some money. Marriage to a rancher will not provide the lifestyle you are accustomed to.”
“I know that Bronnah. I’m not stupid,” frustration has her spinning away.
"No, you are sweet, generous, protective, kind, funny and beautiful. Any man would be lucky to call you his bride. Just as I have been lucky to call you sister," Bronnah replies instantly.
“Forgive me, I’m feeling out of sorts,” Lizzy turns and wipes a tear glistening in her eyes, “Thank you, now let’s go eat with the Captain and see what there is to do on this ship. I’m bored to tears.”
Bronnah walks amongst the ornate halls and frowns. "It's hard to believe that the only thing separating the rich and poor are some wooden boards."
“It doesn’t seem right, does it,” Lizzy replies. “Bronnah for this trip, let’s just agree to enjoy ourselves. We will never have this experience again.”
“It’s terrifying and exciting at the same time,” Bronnah tucks her arm in Lizzy’s. “I feel hopeful for the first time in a long time.”
“Who knew that hope could make one so hungry!” Lizzy says with a laugh.
The Freesia usually carried merchants, missionaries, and government officials, but truth be told it looked like mostly laborers. The Captain explained that the Freesia could accommodate one hundred and two first-class passengers, one hundred and twenty-six, second class passengers and six hundred steerage class.
Females traveling alone are kept separate from the single males and families. The ship was designed with four decks to ensure the passenger’s safety. The only time they would mingle would be during dinner in the main dining hall with the Captain, or at the dances held every Friday night. Of course, each class had their own dining hall which could be transformed as needed.
Bronnah is excited to see the other passengers on the ship. Anything to keep her mind off what waits across the sea. She can’t help but wonder what her new husband will be like. Inside the dining room, Elizabeth leads the way to the Captain’s table and introductions are quickly made. The room is illuminated by large crystal chandeliers with exquisitely set tables. Wonderful scents float on the air, teasing them and they smile in anticipation of a gourmet meal. Captain Tyler approaches drawing excited giggles from a set of identical twins about the same age as Elizabeth.
Captain Tyler's table seats ten. Great pains are made to balance the table with singles and married passengers. Bronnah smiles and chats happily with a married couple on her left with a young son. They talk freely and enjoy a dinner of soup and biscuits. Lizzy is flirting with a dark-haired man.
"Miss O'Dalaigh, it is nice to see that you're feeling better and
