The Wind and Waves

Josephine Clifton turned from her father's grave, uncertain if it were raindrops or tears that were coursing down her cheek. The faithful English rain had been her constant companion throughout the hours she had been sitting at the two graves. She took one more look at the older grave next to her father's. "Good bye, Mum," she murmured, and allowed a tiny smile to tug at the corners of her mouth. "I'll see you and Father in Heaven one day." She drew in a deep breath and turned back to the new grave. "Father," she added, "I did what you asked me to do. I went to Arthur Winston and indentured myself to him." She squeezed her eyes shut for one awful moment before continuing. "I've been working for his Missus these past two months. But now-" She paused and drew in a shaky breath. "Mr. Winston said the ship is ready to sail, to carry us to the new world. But I dread leaving England." Once again she paused and gathered her courage. "Ah well, I've heard that America is a wondrous land-a place to begin anew. When I've finished my seven years of service to the Winstons, I'm sure I'll know how to provide for myself. Besides," she added with a soft smile, "my God shall supply all my need according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19) You and Mum don't need to worry about me. I'll be fine."