Sincerely, Jennifer x

14th November 1828

Sweet Agatha,

Six of the crew are dead. Four seaman, a cabin boy and the Carpenter. 

Last night’s dream came in fits and starts as my sleep was fractured by the screams of the sick. There was such blood, darling. In my dreams, and when I awoke. 

It sloshed about my boots as I ran to fetch the surgeon, crossing paths with others as they did the same. Yet, still, in the brief hours where my eyes could close, and my body rested, the creature in the crate claimed me once again. 

Those same teasing words, over and over. Promises of salvation if I assist with securing its freedom. I wept, slumped against the crate, and my love, I am ashamed to say that once again, I looked into the eyes of the beast that had bound itself to me. 

The cold stare found me, in a small crack in the crate and I sobbed, begging it to relieve me of its torture. 

I am just a man, Agatha. I am nothing but a man. I hold no influence, riches or power, and yet, it hounds me as if I am the one who can make all the difference. 

“Let us be free, William, and you shall be spared.” 

The sickness is born of the creature, of that I am certain, but how, and why? 

I pleaded, in broken words and helpless sobs, but it had no mercy. The room ached with cold, with heavy, damp air that seemed to clog my throat and nose. 

“We must have our blood, one way or another.” 

Its eyes bore into me, as the room grew dark and still. The ocean seemed to quiet as the thing held me in its grasp, and in that moment, I knew that I had to go to it, even though nothing had ever frightened me more. 

Forgive me, my love. Forgive me, and understand me. I beg of you. 

I know that these may be my last moments, and I am consumed with confusion and obligation. I do not truly understand my task, or why I have been chosen, but more and more men take to their beds as the hours pass, and I must overcome my cowardice, before it’s too late. 

Tonight, when everyone is sleeping, I shall go to the hold. 

Perhaps it will be the last thing I ever do, but perhaps, it could be the right thing. 

If I return home to you, I will never part from you again, but if I am destined never to see you again, please know that I will wait for you, where the Angels reside. 

Ever Yours, 

William