Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction 4-7 2019 | Page 22

“Thus you men are foraging manners to depart home,” the man vocalised, “I desire something in order for me to assist
you.”
I endured an instance of helplessness until I recalled the small goods I salvaged and placed in my pocket. I passed the
goods to the man who subsequently examined them, and tittered.
“Well, Sirs, I shall assemble a team to repair the boat.” Declared the man.
“Thank you, Sir. If I may beseech you, I beg of you to dispatch this letter to my wife.” I implored whilst passing the
letter to the man.
“With pleasure.” Averred the man.
Within what was the sensation equivalent to the speed of light, Officer Taylor and I were prepared to embark on our
voyage home.
***
Each passing day brought ineffable despair and despondency from mourning my husband. Mother has been
administering the children’s mettle whilst I have been mellowing in my sorrow.
“Eliza, do eat, dear.” Mother urged. I peer blankly at Mother as stillness imbued the cottage. Instantaneously, roars of
applause and exclamations are heard from the exterior of the cottage. I excuse myself to observe the havoc. I observe
swarms of people embracing two men advancing near. I view the face of the man appearing towards me and to my
incredulity, that man was Augustus!
“Augustus!” I shriek whilst I bound towards Augustus. We meet equidistant and embrace. I weep rivers of exaltation
and consolation into Augustus’s arms.
“Father!” The children howl. The children charge towards Augustus and I and encircle him. Bliss penetrated the air,
enfolding our family amiably. My bliss returned, and I am impotent to be rejoicing further.
***
“Grandmother,” enquired Alexandra as she reads the letters, “Why did Grandfather write these?”
“My dear, your dear late Grandfather used to write to me during his voyages. Once, his fleet encountered a storm and
was deserted. He wrote a letter bidding his farewells and in his charming manner, sent the letter. Miraculously,
Grandfather returned home.
“Must you maintain the letters and not the vessel’s treasure, Grandmother?” Questioned Albert.
“My dear, pure wealth was not those discovered during the voyages. Pure wealth is the merits of the relations of your
beloveds. Your dear Grandfather enlightened me upon this.” I elucidated. The sun brightens the abode as I peer out the
window. An image of Augustus is illustrated by the window and I commence to smile.
“Remembering those merits, grandchildren, are better remarkable than any merit of the magnificent treasure.” I gaze at
Augustus by the window and I smile. I glimpse him smiling in return as he voyages away.