A Friendship Dissected - Chapter 6 - Coming Together Again Part 1
Title: A Friendship Dissected, Chapter 6 -Part 1 Coming Together Again
Characters: Stephen, Jack, Killick, William Reade
Rating: NC-17
Spoilers for Desolation Island
Disclaimer: Characters borrowed from Patrick O'Brian & his heirs on a non-profit basis
A Friendship Dissected
Chapter 6 - Coming Together Again Part 1
Jack woke in the night; it was much colder. The stove in the great cabin had gone out and there was no longer any warmth to seep into the sleeping cabin. He shivered and turned and heard a repressed groan from Stephen’s cot. He sat up and looked at him and could see his body contort in pain under the blanket.
“Stephen, are you all right? What’s wrong Stephen?” Jack called to him.
“Nothing….Just a little cramping, nothing to worry about.” Stephen’s last statement was given the lie by a groan and a further restless movement, his body arching in agony.
Jack swung from his cot and he strode across to Stephen’s cot. “No Stephen it’s bad, isn’t it? I’ll get Killick to rekindle the stove in the cabin. Come let me take you there.”
With that he picked up Stephen with the bedclothes tucked around him and carried him into the great cabin, where there may have been some lingering residual warmth. He deposited Stephen on the locker bench and went to the door and called for Killick. He returned to Stephen and held him and then began rubbing his arms and back and kissing him, “Shh! We’ll get you warm soon and I’ll massage you.” He could feel another burst of anger as he thought back to the bastards who had damaged Stephen’s body, leaving him in agony like this whenever his muscles and joints were subjected to cold for even relatively short periods of time. “The temperature must have dropped fast over the last few hours; maybe we’re in for a blow or some snow.” Jack murmured to Stephen still rocking him and kissing his face.
Killick looking more surly and bad-tempered than usual stomped into the cabin in his nightshirt, “Roused out of a warm bed at all hours. Can’t let a soul sleep without demanding something.”
“Quiet! The stove has gone out, get some coals and rekindle it as well as some hot water. I need to apply hot towels to ease the Doctor’s cramps. Hurry about it, he’s in pain.” Jack barked at him.
Killick stared at Stephen for a moment and then hurried out to get the coals and called to the cook. “Hurry up there fire your stove up, hot water needed in the great cabin, straight away. Get a move on you grass-combing bugger, Doctor needs it straight away.” He then returned to the cabin, if not at a run, at a fast shuffle with the coalscuttle and bent to rekindle the stove. He gave a quick glance toward the locker where Jack had now unwrapped Stephen and was massaging his back and his thighs, trying to relieve the spasms contorting Stephen’s spine and legs and murmuring to him, trying to comfort him. He chose not to notice Jack’s light kisses to Stephen’s back and shoulders and face. Killick may not have been the perfect steward but he had learnt discretion as far as these two were concerned. Good thing too as Jack was now pressing Stephen against his body, rubbing his back still and continuing to kiss and comfort him, all thought of anything, anyone but Stephen blanked from his mind, his whole being concentrated on easing his pain.
The cook tapped on the door and Killick coughed loud enough to get Jack’s attention. He sat up, covered Stephen with the blanket and called “Come in.” The cook hurried in with a large pot of hot water and Killick quickly got some towels from one of the locker’s cabinets.
“Thank you Coulsen, Killick. That’ll be all. You can go back to your hammocks. I’ll tend to the Doctor.”
They made their obedience and left the cabin. Killick muttering to Coulsen, “Doctor is in a bad way again. The arthritis and the cramps terrible bad, in this cold weather. He will go rolling in bogs and bathing in ice-cold streams. Needs a minder just to keep him out of trouble.”
“It’s all right old Stephen, shhh… Where do you want the hot towels first? Your legs or your back?” Jack asked. He dumped the towels into the pot of steaming water, picking them out and squeezing the excess water and began to smooth them over Stephen’s thighs first and then lay two along his spine and then draped smaller towels over his upper arms and began squeezing and massaging him through the towels.
After a while, the ambient temperature of the Great Cabin had risen and Stephen sighed in relief at the heat and the feel of Jack’s strong hands, massaging the back of his legs. “Thank you Jack, such a relief. I haven’t had it this bad for such a long time.” Stephen’s eyes drooped as he relaxed further as Jack’s strong hands lightly whispered across his bottom and began massaging his spine with slow firm strokes, easing out the knots of pain as he worked steadily up Stephen’s spine.
“Do you need the towels again, more heat?” Jack asked.
“No, no it’s fine; your hands are easing me. Yes just push a little harder there. Yes, aaah! Good, good.” Stephen whispered.
Jack bent to kiss him again. “Reminds me of that time on Desolation Island. Yes that was a lovely end to our stay, though I think you would have rather have done without the pain. The first time we made love properly. Such a cold and desolate place, but a lovely way to keep warm.” Jack smiled, lost in his reveries of that time.
“Yes well you won’t be getting a repeat performance tonight. All I want to do is relax and go to sleep.” Stephen said.
“Oh no, Stephen I wasn’t suggesting…. Do you want to stay here in the cabin where it’s warm or go back to your cot?”
“Stay here. Could you please continue Jack? My shoulders and neck are still stiff.”
Jack started to rub near the shoulder blades moving his hands in a circular motion up to the shoulders, squeezing and releasing them and then up to his neck still applying pressure and bringing them back down Stephen’s spine, repeating the circuit again and again, maintaining a steady pressure, seeking to relieve the stiffness and pain. Stephen now relaxed and drowsy drifted off to sleep. Jack removed the towels and put the pot nearer the stove, adding a few more coals and then removed his nightshirt. The cabin was now rather hot for him but it was what Stephen needed. He walked back to the locker, rolling Stephen on his side facing him and lay down, wrapping his arms around Stephen, cuddling him and kissing his forehead and cheeks, rubbing the length of his body against him. No reaction other than Stephen moving his head onto Jack’s shoulder and nestling against him, now fallen into a deep sleep induced by the warmth and relaxation. Jack sighed and held him close and settled to sleep as well.
Killick a few hours later crept into the cabin to add more fuel to the stove. He tiptoed to the two of them lying on the locker seat and bent to rearrange the blanket so it covered their shoulders. He picked up the pot and wet towels and left.
Jack woke at eight bells at the end of the morning watch and looked down at Stephen still deeply asleep. Easing himself from the blanket to an unconscious protest from Stephen, his body already missing the warmth and feel of Jack pressed against his own. Jack bent and kissed him, and stroked his cheek until Stephen then turned on his stomach and snuggled down and sank deeper into his dreams. Jack stood looking down at Stephen the usual protective feelings towards Stephen rising again and thinking about him, ‘Even when he’s awake Stephen can be so dreamy, entirely lost to the world, especially when he’s unhappy. I remember what he was like just before my command on the ‘horrible old Leopard’, sitting at the table with the other officers, pondering some dark secret, probably related to Diana. She was playing with his heart again. Stephen has such a tender heart, so easily bruised, so vulnerable. He’ll laugh and say he is a cynic and tough as old boots, what heart? But everyone sees that vulnerability and even that old curmudgeon Killick knows it. Bonden, most of the old Surprises and those former shipmates close to him, like Pullings or Babbington knew it and kept an eye out for him. Any woman he’s come across picks it up immediately and they all want to mother him, Sophie, Mrs Broad and even that woman, Louisa Wogan. It was a pity Diana didn’t react that way in the beginning but she was certainly aware of it and thank god in the end loved him as much as he did her.’
The sound of Killick at the door roused him from his musing and he walked into the sleeping cabin to wash and get dressed. He peeked out the door and saw Killick readjusting the blanket around Stephen and smiled as he called to Killick asking him, “Good morning to you Killick, how is the day?”
Killick turned and frowned and put a finger to his lips to shush Jack and in a harsh whisper, “Shhh, sir! Don’t wake the Doctor sir. He needs his sleep. The day is fine, no rain, overcast, wind from the west, nor’ west, still a bit parky.”
Stephen began to stir and Killick glared at Jack and said more loudly, “I’ll go make the Doctor’s coffee,” and stalked out of the cabin.
Stephen sat up, rubbing his eyes and looking a little dazed, trying to work out why he wasn’t in his cot. Looking around he saw Jack at the sleeping cabin door and smiled “Jack a good morning to you,” stretching his arms and straightening his spine.
“You’re feeling better Stephen I see.” Jack walked over and kissed him. “But maybe you should stay in bed a little longer, keep warm by the stove.”
“No, I’m fine now, I think it was the sudden fall in temperature and inactivity which set off the cramping. I must at least walk around, stretch my legs.”
“Well dress warm if you’re going up on deck.” Jack warned.
Stephen harrumphed and got up, donned Jack’s rather voluminous nightshirt and walked to the quarter-gallery. Jack called after him, “Put some slippers on Stephen, the deck is cold. I’m just going up on deck to ask Mr Harding and Mr Somers and young Wells for breakfast.”
This morning’s breakfast was much more abundant than usual, Killick wandering in and out, refilling the Doctor’s cup and continually urging more food upon him. “Strengthen your fibres sir. What with this sudden cold and you so skinny, put some meat on your bones sir.” These remarks all echoed by Jack and the others at the table anxious to see Stephen eat up. The midshipmen even managed to control their wolfish appetites to make sure Stephen could eat as much as possible. Stephen controlled any sharp comments about what mother hens seamen were and that his weight was perfectly healthy, more so than those who perpetually over-indulged in food and drink. He acquiesced to their attentions, knowing that it was well-meant and fed by worry for his health and knowing that there would be nothing he could do to stop them anyway.
There was a call from the deck of a sighting of a sail and all except Stephen left to go up on deck. Stephen emptied the coffee pot and was getting up to follow them when Amos came into the cabin. “How are you Esteban? I heard that you were in severe pain last night?”
“Not you too. I’m sorry I am feeling somewhat harassed. I’ve been surrounded this last hour by a pack of seamen trying to stuff me to bursting with food, to fatten me up. I’m quite recovered Amos, just a reaction to the sudden cold change. My damaged muscles still react badly to rapid temperature change. I assume the whole ship’s company is aware of my ‘illness’ last night? I shall not be left alone for a minute, solicitous seamen offering me quacks’ nostrums and other such nonsense.” Stephen sighed in exasperation.
As he left the cabin to go up on deck, Killick grabbed him, “Sir, you can’t go up on deck in the cold morning air with only that light coat on.” He propelled Stephen back into the sleeping cabin and fished his great coat, some gloves and a woollen hat and comforter from Stephen’s chest and proceeded to dress him.
“Killick, Killick stop will you. All this clothing is smothering me.” Stephen cried as Killick pulled the woollen hat firmly onto his head. “The hat is totally unnecessary.”
“No sir, the Admiral will have my hide sir if I let you out in the cold without proper clothing sir. Have you got a vest on under your shirt?” Killick now attempted to check.
Stephen batted his hands away, “No, I’m quite warm thank you Killick. Jack is not going to check my undergarments on deck. Stop that and let me go.”
Killick desisted but insisted on leading him up the companionway and onto the deck, guiding him as if he were an invalid up to the quarterdeck. Stephen’s patience was rapidly reaching its limits and he thought, ‘If one of them offers me some quack’s remedy or advice I shall bring them up sharply.’ Most of the officers on deck noted the rebellious look on Stephen’s face and wisely kept their suggestions or advice concerning his health to themselves and just smiled in welcome, well aware of the Doctor’s fractiousness when unwell.
“Doctor come, we have company. Come and look.” Jack called inviting him to join him on the starboard side of the quarterdeck. He offered him the use of his telescope.
When Stephen had focussed on the point indicated by Jack, he asked, “Do you recognise the ship Stephen?”
“Is it the Ringle? Mr Reade could not have made such a fast passage up the coast to Buenos Aires and back, surely not.” Stephen exclaimed. “Maybe he has urgent despatches for you about the squadron?”
“More than likely, everything is urgent in the Navy, I’m sure you’re aware of that by now Stephen. Maybe there’ll be some mail from home as well.” Jack laughed in anticipation.
“Oh yes, I am most thoroughly acquainted with the Service’s and your sense of urgency. Not a minute to be lost as we speed heedlessly on, neglecting the inestimable treasures of nature, to crack on to arrive at some distant, dismal port or make some nautical rendezvous to wreak havoc on one’s fellow man.” Stephen glared at Jack remembering lost opportunities, sacrificed to the exigencies of the Service.
“Now Stephen, be fair. You had a whole day and night ashore, only the day before yesterday. I would stop for you if I could, but you know as well as I do that if you have a fair wind and the current is with you, we have to take our chances, make hay while the wind blows, you know.” Jack expostulated, hopelessly mixing his idioms as usual.
“Yes, maybe there will be some mail from home,” Stephen said mildly, his frustration of a moment ago forgotten. “Perhaps there will be a letter from Brigid?”
“You aren’t hoping for a letter from Mrs Wood?” Jack asked.
“No, it doesn’t worry me now. Perhaps I was just seeking feminine company, somebody to fill that void left in my life by Diana. We are good friends and I feel some passion for her, but not anything like I felt for Diana. It would be nice for Brigid to have some other woman than Sophie to rely on and she shares my interest in natural philosophy. I believe that she would be a most amiable companion if I retired from the service. That is not a part of my plans now. Mrs Wood was never that eager to remarry and is quite wealthy in her own right. I will not be pressing my suit, but if she wishes to accept my offer of marriage I will of course honour it. I shall not be disappointed if she declines.” Stephen relapsed into silence. He reefed the hat from his head and loosened and then removed the comforter, stuffing them both into the pocket of his coat that he began to unbutton. “I shall suffer heat prostration with all this extra clothing Killick has forced on me. They are stifling me.”
“Stephen I think you should at least keep your coat buttoned, while on deck. The wind is quite cruel.” Jack argued. “I don’t want you going up to the tops until the weather is warmer either. It’s much colder up there. You have your glass and you can see the birds perfectly well with it, there is no need to go climbing the rigging.”
“Yes, yes. It is a totally unnecessary precaution, I assure you, but I shall do as you ask just to have some peace from this endless concern with my health. Last night was a momentary weakness and I doubt it will recur. I have to go down and visit my patients. They are more deserving of your concern, to be sure. Please call me if there is any mail.” Stephen turned and walked forward. There was still a degree of stiffness in his gait that worried Jack.
Jack resumed his pacing the quarterdeck and occasionally glancing starboard toward the Ringle, on the horizon, willing it to go faster. It was beating up against the wind and it would be a while yet, so he decided he’d go down to the cabin, catch up with some paperwork. “Mr Harding when Mr Reade comes aboard, please send him to me. The deck is yours.”
Jack was sitting at his desk, not dealing with his paperwork but musing about Stephen, Mrs Wood and women in general, ‘Stephen is more in tune with women than me. Women speak another language at times, a language I don’t understand. He understands them and is able to talk to them in their language. He truly likes women. I’m not sure that most men I know do. They may love them or lust for them but very few like or understand them. Mrs Wood would be a fool to reject him, but do I really want her presence distracting Stephen, making him want to stay ashore. I know I’m being selfish, but I want him to myself. If she refuses him, he can ask Brigid to come out to the squadron and we can somehow accommodate her on board. There will be plenty of room. Sophie might object, she would say she has to be brought up to be a lady and that it is not possible on board a ship. I’ll just ask Sophie to come out too. She can then ensure Brigid is brought up knowing all the proper social airs and graces of a lady, but then I’m not sure that is what Stephen intends for her. Brigid always has been a fey child. I don’t think she will ever be quite ordinary. Maybe she has inherited some of Stephen’s magical qualities. They are both dreamers, not very practical and I don’t think they’ll ever change. But what would I do, if I had both Sophie and Stephen on board? How would I manage it? While Sophie is on shore and Stephen afloat with me, I can handle the two of them. I can’t tell Sophie about Stephen and me, she wouldn’t understand. This is getting too complicated; I’ll have to talk to Stephen about this. See what he thinks. I have to get him appointed to my command first! I’m putting the cart before the horses.’
His musings were abruptly shattered by a knock at the door and Mr Reade’s cheerful presence as he literally bounced into the room with his usual over-abundant flow of energy. He had several large packages under the one arm he possessed. Killick followed dragging the mailbag. “Good morning Admiral.”
“Good morning Mr Reade, a very good morning by the look of it. A full mailbag and more orders for me, I see. You’ve made an extraordinarily fast run up to the River Plate and back.” Jack stood and returned the salute. “Let me help you with those.”
“Oh no, sir! Some of them are for Dr Maturin. I have to place them in his hands directly, my orders, Sir!” He put the packages down, pushing a large package with an accompanying smaller letter-size envelope towards Jack, but picked up the other package and envelope again. “Is Dr Maturin about sir?”
“Killick go get the Doctor and tell him that there are some orders just been delivered for him and if he is free to come to the cabin. He is probably down in the sick berth with Dr Jacob.” Looking at Reade again, “Any further news of the squadron? Have all the ships dropped anchor in the River Plate? Any problems that you could see?” Jack questioned the young man.
Reade flushed with pleasure that Jack was asking his opinion. “Not all have arrived sir. Some are refitting in Madeira and there is one, the Nymphe still coming down from the West Indies sir. Of those that have made it to Buenos Aires, some are in a bad way. They were mauled by a squall on the way down sir. A fair bit of refitting work to be done with quite a few damaged masts and spas needing repairs and sails too. So I think the captains might appreciate it sir if you took your time, so they can preddy their ships, before you inspect them.” The last said in a less confident tone, William unsure that he should have mentioned the other captains’ concerns to the Admiral.
“Are there adequate supplies at the dockyards at Buenos Aires to service the squadron?” Jack asked, appearing not to notice the suggestion made by Reade.
“Oh I think they’re quite well stocked, sir, but you know dockyards, they’ll try to screw every penny from a ship’s captain for the least little thing. The one in Buenos Aires is no different. There maybe some accounts from the captains with the costs of some of the repairs, in the package sir.” Reade answered and turned to the door as Stephen entered smiling a welcome to him. “Oh Doctor, good morning, how are you? I’ve got some special orders for you. They’re from the Admiralty, from the First Admiral himself sir. They must be very important, sir.”
“Very well indeed William. They certainly must be. I hope you did not hurry with them on my account, but the Ringle has always been a fast ship. You look well, good news I hope.” Stephen answered looking at the package and envelope placed into his hands, but making no move to open either. Jack stared at Stephen willing him to open the package. He had opened the envelope that accompanied his sealed orders and the note from Lord Melville mentioned Stephen’s orders and now he was impatient to know what they were.
“Stephen perhaps you should open your orders or the envelope.” Jack urged.
Stephen smiled at Jack’s impatience, looked at Reade, “Let’s see what this has to say William.” He opened the envelope addressed to him in Sir Joseph’s hand and scanned the letter and then read the attached letter from Lord Melville, maintaining a neutral expression, giving nothing away. In the meantime Jack began pacing. “Jack open your orders. There must be some order for you to take some action with the utmost expedition I’m sure.”
Jack glared at Stephen who smiled back at him and proceeded to open the sealed package with his orders. His head slightly cocked to the side and he again slowly scanned the pages, keeping them upright so Jack could not see their content, trying hard to suppress his smile. “A very pretty document indeed, more elegant than the Post-Captain’s commission document they gave me the last time.”
“What, Post-Captain’s commission, Stephen tell me.” Shouted Jack moving around to look over Stephen’s shoulder. “Where are you to be appointed? What is your appointment exactly?” Jack demanded.
“To your squadron of course, as a type of supernumerary Post-Captain, nominally in charge if I choose of the Surprise, if I agree to hire her to the service again. I hope they do not expect me to make any nautical decisions? I should fear for the people’s safety in that case. Officially seconded to your flag ship as the squadron’s Chief Physician, with an additional commission as Natural Philosopher representing the King and the Royal Society, with another finely penned document to accompany it.” Stephen waved the other document. “What did your letter say Jack?”
“Just a letter from Lord Melville, with an added note from Sir Joseph urging me to use all my powers of persuasion to press you to take the commission. They didn’t say what, said I had to wait till you opened your orders. Well, are you going to take the commission, or do I have to persuade you?” Jack finished with a smile.
“I’m sure you should open your package now Jack, perhaps there are more instructions on how to persuade reluctant Post-Captains. Will you have to read me in, or whatever you do when conferring the status. That is, if I accept it.” Stephen still teased.
“Oh Doctor, I hope you do! It wouldn’t be the same without you. We all want you to sail with the Admiral. I’m sorry sirs but I have to get back to the Ringle to resolve a minor problem. Hopefully I’ll see you later Doctor and salute you as a proper Post-Captain.” Mr Reade started to leave, making his excuses, seeing Jack’s glowering face.
Jack’s expression changed to a warm smile as he called after Mr Reade, “William come to dinner today. I’m sure we’ll drink to the Doctor then.”
“Delighted sir, delighted.” Mr Reade called as he left.
“Now Jack, I find that you will have to exercise those powers of persuasion, that Sir Joseph and Lord Melville feel will sway my mind so decisively. Perhaps you would like to give me a demonstration of their power.” Stephen smiled at Jack backing away from the desk.
Not fast enough, as Jack darted back around it, holding Stephen still and saying, “Oh! It’s a demonstration you will be wanting is it Doctor? Well let’s start here…” He bent quickly and kissed Stephen slowly, increasing the pressure and moving his hands down Stephen’s back and started to rub his body against him.
Stephen laughing, pulled back and looked up at Jack, his hand brushing Jack’s forehead and hair, “Jack they mentioned persuasion, not seduction. Or is this some new tactic to enhance recruitment to the service that you are perfecting, before you suggest it to the Admiralty? Instead of the usual method of knocking the potential recruit on the head and pressing him into the service, a senior officer of the fleet is to be sent out to persuade new recruits by pressing their bodies against his. I’m not sure the service would be eager to implement this bold new initiative.”
“Stephen …. are you going to accept the commission? It’s everything you could ever want.” Jack asked.
“Is there anything in your instructions referring to my seniority? Can I order you to stop the ship to investigate pristine territory? For in my role it is my duty to collect and record any new and rare species, for the greater glory of your King and his subjects.” Stephen again waved the paper from the Royal Society at Jack with mock seriousness. Then laughed again and said, “Of course I’ll accept it Jack and no I am quite aware of the overriding exigencies of the service.”
“Good, and now I wish to kiss my friend and wish him joy of his new commission.” Jack smiled now and bent and gently kissed Stephen’s cheeks, first one and then the other. “I was just thinking of how I could try to arrange this very appointment. It could not have been better. I was thinking of other things too, perhaps we’ll talk about it tonight. Come Stephen I must make the announcement.”
“Jack wait, it says here I’m nominally Captain of the Surprise, will this block the potential appointment of a true Captain to the post? I would not wish to deprive a good officer of his just promotion. Please open your package, it may have more information there. I still see no point in being appointed Captain, the other appointments were quite sufficient.” Stephen shook his head.
Jack turned and opened the package, skimming the papers quickly. “Here it says that as you are seconded to the flagship, I may appoint an appropriate officer to the command of the Surprise. I wonder if Pullings is still without a ship? He might be willing or Mowett perhaps?”
“Both are excellent young men. The Surprise will have to go home. Most of the men were expecting to go home and I don’t think we could disappoint them. It would be wise to have someone of your mind, like Pullings who can recruit new crewmembers and supervise any refitting in the manner you would wish. They could come down later and join us at The Cape.”
“Issuing orders already Stephen? Come Stephen I want to tell the others.”
“The mail, Jack you should have it distributed. The men are waiting for it.”
“Oh Lord yes. With this good news I’d quite forgotten it.” Jack opened the bag looking up at Stephen his face aglow with joy, in high spirits. He quickly picked out those letters for Stephen and himself . “Killick come in and take the mail bag to the wardroom.”
Killick had been standing behind the door and so entered the cabin almost immediately, nodding to the Doctor. Killick’s expression changed to something like a smile. “Come on Stephen enough, let’s go on deck.” He held Stephen’s hand and led him up to the deck, smiling and laughing.
Stephen smiled at him, but once on deck looked a little embarrassed when Jack announced, “Gentlemen I wish to present to you, your new Captain, Dr Maturin.”
“It’s only a nominal appointment. I shall be seconded aboard the flagship. I’m sure a more competent officer will be placed in command.” Stephen murmured.
There was a round of congratulations and handshaking and a loud “Huzzah for the Doctor” echoed from all around the ship. “I would wish to invite all the officers to the cabin to dine today to celebrate Stephen’s commission, but as he is a member of your company perhaps the wardroom would wish to arrange a special celebration first.”
“Oh yes sir, I think you and the Doctor should dine together today and I will be more than happy to arrange a special dinner to celebrate this excellent news. On Sunday when you usually dine with us, sir?” Mr Harding asked Jack.
“Excellent suggestion, though I have already invited Mr Reade to dine today, so he will be with us. Mr Wells, Mr Glover and Mr Hanson you will join us I hope.” Jack was expansive in his high good humour.
A Friendship Dissected, Chapter 6 - Coming Together Again Part 2
Characters: Stephen, Jack, Killick, William Reade
Rating: NC-17
Spoilers for Desolation Island
Disclaimer: Characters borrowed from Patrick O'Brian & his heirs on a non-profit basis
A Friendship Dissected
Chapter 6 - Coming Together Again Part 1
Jack woke in the night; it was much colder. The stove in the great cabin had gone out and there was no longer any warmth to seep into the sleeping cabin. He shivered and turned and heard a repressed groan from Stephen’s cot. He sat up and looked at him and could see his body contort in pain under the blanket.
“Stephen, are you all right? What’s wrong Stephen?” Jack called to him.
“Nothing….Just a little cramping, nothing to worry about.” Stephen’s last statement was given the lie by a groan and a further restless movement, his body arching in agony.
Jack swung from his cot and he strode across to Stephen’s cot. “No Stephen it’s bad, isn’t it? I’ll get Killick to rekindle the stove in the cabin. Come let me take you there.”
With that he picked up Stephen with the bedclothes tucked around him and carried him into the great cabin, where there may have been some lingering residual warmth. He deposited Stephen on the locker bench and went to the door and called for Killick. He returned to Stephen and held him and then began rubbing his arms and back and kissing him, “Shh! We’ll get you warm soon and I’ll massage you.” He could feel another burst of anger as he thought back to the bastards who had damaged Stephen’s body, leaving him in agony like this whenever his muscles and joints were subjected to cold for even relatively short periods of time. “The temperature must have dropped fast over the last few hours; maybe we’re in for a blow or some snow.” Jack murmured to Stephen still rocking him and kissing his face.
Killick looking more surly and bad-tempered than usual stomped into the cabin in his nightshirt, “Roused out of a warm bed at all hours. Can’t let a soul sleep without demanding something.”
“Quiet! The stove has gone out, get some coals and rekindle it as well as some hot water. I need to apply hot towels to ease the Doctor’s cramps. Hurry about it, he’s in pain.” Jack barked at him.
Killick stared at Stephen for a moment and then hurried out to get the coals and called to the cook. “Hurry up there fire your stove up, hot water needed in the great cabin, straight away. Get a move on you grass-combing bugger, Doctor needs it straight away.” He then returned to the cabin, if not at a run, at a fast shuffle with the coalscuttle and bent to rekindle the stove. He gave a quick glance toward the locker where Jack had now unwrapped Stephen and was massaging his back and his thighs, trying to relieve the spasms contorting Stephen’s spine and legs and murmuring to him, trying to comfort him. He chose not to notice Jack’s light kisses to Stephen’s back and shoulders and face. Killick may not have been the perfect steward but he had learnt discretion as far as these two were concerned. Good thing too as Jack was now pressing Stephen against his body, rubbing his back still and continuing to kiss and comfort him, all thought of anything, anyone but Stephen blanked from his mind, his whole being concentrated on easing his pain.
The cook tapped on the door and Killick coughed loud enough to get Jack’s attention. He sat up, covered Stephen with the blanket and called “Come in.” The cook hurried in with a large pot of hot water and Killick quickly got some towels from one of the locker’s cabinets.
“Thank you Coulsen, Killick. That’ll be all. You can go back to your hammocks. I’ll tend to the Doctor.”
They made their obedience and left the cabin. Killick muttering to Coulsen, “Doctor is in a bad way again. The arthritis and the cramps terrible bad, in this cold weather. He will go rolling in bogs and bathing in ice-cold streams. Needs a minder just to keep him out of trouble.”
“It’s all right old Stephen, shhh… Where do you want the hot towels first? Your legs or your back?” Jack asked. He dumped the towels into the pot of steaming water, picking them out and squeezing the excess water and began to smooth them over Stephen’s thighs first and then lay two along his spine and then draped smaller towels over his upper arms and began squeezing and massaging him through the towels.
After a while, the ambient temperature of the Great Cabin had risen and Stephen sighed in relief at the heat and the feel of Jack’s strong hands, massaging the back of his legs. “Thank you Jack, such a relief. I haven’t had it this bad for such a long time.” Stephen’s eyes drooped as he relaxed further as Jack’s strong hands lightly whispered across his bottom and began massaging his spine with slow firm strokes, easing out the knots of pain as he worked steadily up Stephen’s spine.
“Do you need the towels again, more heat?” Jack asked.
“No, no it’s fine; your hands are easing me. Yes just push a little harder there. Yes, aaah! Good, good.” Stephen whispered.
Jack bent to kiss him again. “Reminds me of that time on Desolation Island. Yes that was a lovely end to our stay, though I think you would have rather have done without the pain. The first time we made love properly. Such a cold and desolate place, but a lovely way to keep warm.” Jack smiled, lost in his reveries of that time.
“Yes well you won’t be getting a repeat performance tonight. All I want to do is relax and go to sleep.” Stephen said.
“Oh no, Stephen I wasn’t suggesting…. Do you want to stay here in the cabin where it’s warm or go back to your cot?”
“Stay here. Could you please continue Jack? My shoulders and neck are still stiff.”
Jack started to rub near the shoulder blades moving his hands in a circular motion up to the shoulders, squeezing and releasing them and then up to his neck still applying pressure and bringing them back down Stephen’s spine, repeating the circuit again and again, maintaining a steady pressure, seeking to relieve the stiffness and pain. Stephen now relaxed and drowsy drifted off to sleep. Jack removed the towels and put the pot nearer the stove, adding a few more coals and then removed his nightshirt. The cabin was now rather hot for him but it was what Stephen needed. He walked back to the locker, rolling Stephen on his side facing him and lay down, wrapping his arms around Stephen, cuddling him and kissing his forehead and cheeks, rubbing the length of his body against him. No reaction other than Stephen moving his head onto Jack’s shoulder and nestling against him, now fallen into a deep sleep induced by the warmth and relaxation. Jack sighed and held him close and settled to sleep as well.
Killick a few hours later crept into the cabin to add more fuel to the stove. He tiptoed to the two of them lying on the locker seat and bent to rearrange the blanket so it covered their shoulders. He picked up the pot and wet towels and left.
Jack woke at eight bells at the end of the morning watch and looked down at Stephen still deeply asleep. Easing himself from the blanket to an unconscious protest from Stephen, his body already missing the warmth and feel of Jack pressed against his own. Jack bent and kissed him, and stroked his cheek until Stephen then turned on his stomach and snuggled down and sank deeper into his dreams. Jack stood looking down at Stephen the usual protective feelings towards Stephen rising again and thinking about him, ‘Even when he’s awake Stephen can be so dreamy, entirely lost to the world, especially when he’s unhappy. I remember what he was like just before my command on the ‘horrible old Leopard’, sitting at the table with the other officers, pondering some dark secret, probably related to Diana. She was playing with his heart again. Stephen has such a tender heart, so easily bruised, so vulnerable. He’ll laugh and say he is a cynic and tough as old boots, what heart? But everyone sees that vulnerability and even that old curmudgeon Killick knows it. Bonden, most of the old Surprises and those former shipmates close to him, like Pullings or Babbington knew it and kept an eye out for him. Any woman he’s come across picks it up immediately and they all want to mother him, Sophie, Mrs Broad and even that woman, Louisa Wogan. It was a pity Diana didn’t react that way in the beginning but she was certainly aware of it and thank god in the end loved him as much as he did her.’
The sound of Killick at the door roused him from his musing and he walked into the sleeping cabin to wash and get dressed. He peeked out the door and saw Killick readjusting the blanket around Stephen and smiled as he called to Killick asking him, “Good morning to you Killick, how is the day?”
Killick turned and frowned and put a finger to his lips to shush Jack and in a harsh whisper, “Shhh, sir! Don’t wake the Doctor sir. He needs his sleep. The day is fine, no rain, overcast, wind from the west, nor’ west, still a bit parky.”
Stephen began to stir and Killick glared at Jack and said more loudly, “I’ll go make the Doctor’s coffee,” and stalked out of the cabin.
Stephen sat up, rubbing his eyes and looking a little dazed, trying to work out why he wasn’t in his cot. Looking around he saw Jack at the sleeping cabin door and smiled “Jack a good morning to you,” stretching his arms and straightening his spine.
“You’re feeling better Stephen I see.” Jack walked over and kissed him. “But maybe you should stay in bed a little longer, keep warm by the stove.”
“No, I’m fine now, I think it was the sudden fall in temperature and inactivity which set off the cramping. I must at least walk around, stretch my legs.”
“Well dress warm if you’re going up on deck.” Jack warned.
Stephen harrumphed and got up, donned Jack’s rather voluminous nightshirt and walked to the quarter-gallery. Jack called after him, “Put some slippers on Stephen, the deck is cold. I’m just going up on deck to ask Mr Harding and Mr Somers and young Wells for breakfast.”
This morning’s breakfast was much more abundant than usual, Killick wandering in and out, refilling the Doctor’s cup and continually urging more food upon him. “Strengthen your fibres sir. What with this sudden cold and you so skinny, put some meat on your bones sir.” These remarks all echoed by Jack and the others at the table anxious to see Stephen eat up. The midshipmen even managed to control their wolfish appetites to make sure Stephen could eat as much as possible. Stephen controlled any sharp comments about what mother hens seamen were and that his weight was perfectly healthy, more so than those who perpetually over-indulged in food and drink. He acquiesced to their attentions, knowing that it was well-meant and fed by worry for his health and knowing that there would be nothing he could do to stop them anyway.
There was a call from the deck of a sighting of a sail and all except Stephen left to go up on deck. Stephen emptied the coffee pot and was getting up to follow them when Amos came into the cabin. “How are you Esteban? I heard that you were in severe pain last night?”
“Not you too. I’m sorry I am feeling somewhat harassed. I’ve been surrounded this last hour by a pack of seamen trying to stuff me to bursting with food, to fatten me up. I’m quite recovered Amos, just a reaction to the sudden cold change. My damaged muscles still react badly to rapid temperature change. I assume the whole ship’s company is aware of my ‘illness’ last night? I shall not be left alone for a minute, solicitous seamen offering me quacks’ nostrums and other such nonsense.” Stephen sighed in exasperation.
As he left the cabin to go up on deck, Killick grabbed him, “Sir, you can’t go up on deck in the cold morning air with only that light coat on.” He propelled Stephen back into the sleeping cabin and fished his great coat, some gloves and a woollen hat and comforter from Stephen’s chest and proceeded to dress him.
“Killick, Killick stop will you. All this clothing is smothering me.” Stephen cried as Killick pulled the woollen hat firmly onto his head. “The hat is totally unnecessary.”
“No sir, the Admiral will have my hide sir if I let you out in the cold without proper clothing sir. Have you got a vest on under your shirt?” Killick now attempted to check.
Stephen batted his hands away, “No, I’m quite warm thank you Killick. Jack is not going to check my undergarments on deck. Stop that and let me go.”
Killick desisted but insisted on leading him up the companionway and onto the deck, guiding him as if he were an invalid up to the quarterdeck. Stephen’s patience was rapidly reaching its limits and he thought, ‘If one of them offers me some quack’s remedy or advice I shall bring them up sharply.’ Most of the officers on deck noted the rebellious look on Stephen’s face and wisely kept their suggestions or advice concerning his health to themselves and just smiled in welcome, well aware of the Doctor’s fractiousness when unwell.
“Doctor come, we have company. Come and look.” Jack called inviting him to join him on the starboard side of the quarterdeck. He offered him the use of his telescope.
When Stephen had focussed on the point indicated by Jack, he asked, “Do you recognise the ship Stephen?”
“Is it the Ringle? Mr Reade could not have made such a fast passage up the coast to Buenos Aires and back, surely not.” Stephen exclaimed. “Maybe he has urgent despatches for you about the squadron?”
“More than likely, everything is urgent in the Navy, I’m sure you’re aware of that by now Stephen. Maybe there’ll be some mail from home as well.” Jack laughed in anticipation.
“Oh yes, I am most thoroughly acquainted with the Service’s and your sense of urgency. Not a minute to be lost as we speed heedlessly on, neglecting the inestimable treasures of nature, to crack on to arrive at some distant, dismal port or make some nautical rendezvous to wreak havoc on one’s fellow man.” Stephen glared at Jack remembering lost opportunities, sacrificed to the exigencies of the Service.
“Now Stephen, be fair. You had a whole day and night ashore, only the day before yesterday. I would stop for you if I could, but you know as well as I do that if you have a fair wind and the current is with you, we have to take our chances, make hay while the wind blows, you know.” Jack expostulated, hopelessly mixing his idioms as usual.
“Yes, maybe there will be some mail from home,” Stephen said mildly, his frustration of a moment ago forgotten. “Perhaps there will be a letter from Brigid?”
“You aren’t hoping for a letter from Mrs Wood?” Jack asked.
“No, it doesn’t worry me now. Perhaps I was just seeking feminine company, somebody to fill that void left in my life by Diana. We are good friends and I feel some passion for her, but not anything like I felt for Diana. It would be nice for Brigid to have some other woman than Sophie to rely on and she shares my interest in natural philosophy. I believe that she would be a most amiable companion if I retired from the service. That is not a part of my plans now. Mrs Wood was never that eager to remarry and is quite wealthy in her own right. I will not be pressing my suit, but if she wishes to accept my offer of marriage I will of course honour it. I shall not be disappointed if she declines.” Stephen relapsed into silence. He reefed the hat from his head and loosened and then removed the comforter, stuffing them both into the pocket of his coat that he began to unbutton. “I shall suffer heat prostration with all this extra clothing Killick has forced on me. They are stifling me.”
“Stephen I think you should at least keep your coat buttoned, while on deck. The wind is quite cruel.” Jack argued. “I don’t want you going up to the tops until the weather is warmer either. It’s much colder up there. You have your glass and you can see the birds perfectly well with it, there is no need to go climbing the rigging.”
“Yes, yes. It is a totally unnecessary precaution, I assure you, but I shall do as you ask just to have some peace from this endless concern with my health. Last night was a momentary weakness and I doubt it will recur. I have to go down and visit my patients. They are more deserving of your concern, to be sure. Please call me if there is any mail.” Stephen turned and walked forward. There was still a degree of stiffness in his gait that worried Jack.
Jack resumed his pacing the quarterdeck and occasionally glancing starboard toward the Ringle, on the horizon, willing it to go faster. It was beating up against the wind and it would be a while yet, so he decided he’d go down to the cabin, catch up with some paperwork. “Mr Harding when Mr Reade comes aboard, please send him to me. The deck is yours.”
Jack was sitting at his desk, not dealing with his paperwork but musing about Stephen, Mrs Wood and women in general, ‘Stephen is more in tune with women than me. Women speak another language at times, a language I don’t understand. He understands them and is able to talk to them in their language. He truly likes women. I’m not sure that most men I know do. They may love them or lust for them but very few like or understand them. Mrs Wood would be a fool to reject him, but do I really want her presence distracting Stephen, making him want to stay ashore. I know I’m being selfish, but I want him to myself. If she refuses him, he can ask Brigid to come out to the squadron and we can somehow accommodate her on board. There will be plenty of room. Sophie might object, she would say she has to be brought up to be a lady and that it is not possible on board a ship. I’ll just ask Sophie to come out too. She can then ensure Brigid is brought up knowing all the proper social airs and graces of a lady, but then I’m not sure that is what Stephen intends for her. Brigid always has been a fey child. I don’t think she will ever be quite ordinary. Maybe she has inherited some of Stephen’s magical qualities. They are both dreamers, not very practical and I don’t think they’ll ever change. But what would I do, if I had both Sophie and Stephen on board? How would I manage it? While Sophie is on shore and Stephen afloat with me, I can handle the two of them. I can’t tell Sophie about Stephen and me, she wouldn’t understand. This is getting too complicated; I’ll have to talk to Stephen about this. See what he thinks. I have to get him appointed to my command first! I’m putting the cart before the horses.’
His musings were abruptly shattered by a knock at the door and Mr Reade’s cheerful presence as he literally bounced into the room with his usual over-abundant flow of energy. He had several large packages under the one arm he possessed. Killick followed dragging the mailbag. “Good morning Admiral.”
“Good morning Mr Reade, a very good morning by the look of it. A full mailbag and more orders for me, I see. You’ve made an extraordinarily fast run up to the River Plate and back.” Jack stood and returned the salute. “Let me help you with those.”
“Oh no, sir! Some of them are for Dr Maturin. I have to place them in his hands directly, my orders, Sir!” He put the packages down, pushing a large package with an accompanying smaller letter-size envelope towards Jack, but picked up the other package and envelope again. “Is Dr Maturin about sir?”
“Killick go get the Doctor and tell him that there are some orders just been delivered for him and if he is free to come to the cabin. He is probably down in the sick berth with Dr Jacob.” Looking at Reade again, “Any further news of the squadron? Have all the ships dropped anchor in the River Plate? Any problems that you could see?” Jack questioned the young man.
Reade flushed with pleasure that Jack was asking his opinion. “Not all have arrived sir. Some are refitting in Madeira and there is one, the Nymphe still coming down from the West Indies sir. Of those that have made it to Buenos Aires, some are in a bad way. They were mauled by a squall on the way down sir. A fair bit of refitting work to be done with quite a few damaged masts and spas needing repairs and sails too. So I think the captains might appreciate it sir if you took your time, so they can preddy their ships, before you inspect them.” The last said in a less confident tone, William unsure that he should have mentioned the other captains’ concerns to the Admiral.
“Are there adequate supplies at the dockyards at Buenos Aires to service the squadron?” Jack asked, appearing not to notice the suggestion made by Reade.
“Oh I think they’re quite well stocked, sir, but you know dockyards, they’ll try to screw every penny from a ship’s captain for the least little thing. The one in Buenos Aires is no different. There maybe some accounts from the captains with the costs of some of the repairs, in the package sir.” Reade answered and turned to the door as Stephen entered smiling a welcome to him. “Oh Doctor, good morning, how are you? I’ve got some special orders for you. They’re from the Admiralty, from the First Admiral himself sir. They must be very important, sir.”
“Very well indeed William. They certainly must be. I hope you did not hurry with them on my account, but the Ringle has always been a fast ship. You look well, good news I hope.” Stephen answered looking at the package and envelope placed into his hands, but making no move to open either. Jack stared at Stephen willing him to open the package. He had opened the envelope that accompanied his sealed orders and the note from Lord Melville mentioned Stephen’s orders and now he was impatient to know what they were.
“Stephen perhaps you should open your orders or the envelope.” Jack urged.
Stephen smiled at Jack’s impatience, looked at Reade, “Let’s see what this has to say William.” He opened the envelope addressed to him in Sir Joseph’s hand and scanned the letter and then read the attached letter from Lord Melville, maintaining a neutral expression, giving nothing away. In the meantime Jack began pacing. “Jack open your orders. There must be some order for you to take some action with the utmost expedition I’m sure.”
Jack glared at Stephen who smiled back at him and proceeded to open the sealed package with his orders. His head slightly cocked to the side and he again slowly scanned the pages, keeping them upright so Jack could not see their content, trying hard to suppress his smile. “A very pretty document indeed, more elegant than the Post-Captain’s commission document they gave me the last time.”
“What, Post-Captain’s commission, Stephen tell me.” Shouted Jack moving around to look over Stephen’s shoulder. “Where are you to be appointed? What is your appointment exactly?” Jack demanded.
“To your squadron of course, as a type of supernumerary Post-Captain, nominally in charge if I choose of the Surprise, if I agree to hire her to the service again. I hope they do not expect me to make any nautical decisions? I should fear for the people’s safety in that case. Officially seconded to your flag ship as the squadron’s Chief Physician, with an additional commission as Natural Philosopher representing the King and the Royal Society, with another finely penned document to accompany it.” Stephen waved the other document. “What did your letter say Jack?”
“Just a letter from Lord Melville, with an added note from Sir Joseph urging me to use all my powers of persuasion to press you to take the commission. They didn’t say what, said I had to wait till you opened your orders. Well, are you going to take the commission, or do I have to persuade you?” Jack finished with a smile.
“I’m sure you should open your package now Jack, perhaps there are more instructions on how to persuade reluctant Post-Captains. Will you have to read me in, or whatever you do when conferring the status. That is, if I accept it.” Stephen still teased.
“Oh Doctor, I hope you do! It wouldn’t be the same without you. We all want you to sail with the Admiral. I’m sorry sirs but I have to get back to the Ringle to resolve a minor problem. Hopefully I’ll see you later Doctor and salute you as a proper Post-Captain.” Mr Reade started to leave, making his excuses, seeing Jack’s glowering face.
Jack’s expression changed to a warm smile as he called after Mr Reade, “William come to dinner today. I’m sure we’ll drink to the Doctor then.”
“Delighted sir, delighted.” Mr Reade called as he left.
“Now Jack, I find that you will have to exercise those powers of persuasion, that Sir Joseph and Lord Melville feel will sway my mind so decisively. Perhaps you would like to give me a demonstration of their power.” Stephen smiled at Jack backing away from the desk.
Not fast enough, as Jack darted back around it, holding Stephen still and saying, “Oh! It’s a demonstration you will be wanting is it Doctor? Well let’s start here…” He bent quickly and kissed Stephen slowly, increasing the pressure and moving his hands down Stephen’s back and started to rub his body against him.
Stephen laughing, pulled back and looked up at Jack, his hand brushing Jack’s forehead and hair, “Jack they mentioned persuasion, not seduction. Or is this some new tactic to enhance recruitment to the service that you are perfecting, before you suggest it to the Admiralty? Instead of the usual method of knocking the potential recruit on the head and pressing him into the service, a senior officer of the fleet is to be sent out to persuade new recruits by pressing their bodies against his. I’m not sure the service would be eager to implement this bold new initiative.”
“Stephen …. are you going to accept the commission? It’s everything you could ever want.” Jack asked.
“Is there anything in your instructions referring to my seniority? Can I order you to stop the ship to investigate pristine territory? For in my role it is my duty to collect and record any new and rare species, for the greater glory of your King and his subjects.” Stephen again waved the paper from the Royal Society at Jack with mock seriousness. Then laughed again and said, “Of course I’ll accept it Jack and no I am quite aware of the overriding exigencies of the service.”
“Good, and now I wish to kiss my friend and wish him joy of his new commission.” Jack smiled now and bent and gently kissed Stephen’s cheeks, first one and then the other. “I was just thinking of how I could try to arrange this very appointment. It could not have been better. I was thinking of other things too, perhaps we’ll talk about it tonight. Come Stephen I must make the announcement.”
“Jack wait, it says here I’m nominally Captain of the Surprise, will this block the potential appointment of a true Captain to the post? I would not wish to deprive a good officer of his just promotion. Please open your package, it may have more information there. I still see no point in being appointed Captain, the other appointments were quite sufficient.” Stephen shook his head.
Jack turned and opened the package, skimming the papers quickly. “Here it says that as you are seconded to the flagship, I may appoint an appropriate officer to the command of the Surprise. I wonder if Pullings is still without a ship? He might be willing or Mowett perhaps?”
“Both are excellent young men. The Surprise will have to go home. Most of the men were expecting to go home and I don’t think we could disappoint them. It would be wise to have someone of your mind, like Pullings who can recruit new crewmembers and supervise any refitting in the manner you would wish. They could come down later and join us at The Cape.”
“Issuing orders already Stephen? Come Stephen I want to tell the others.”
“The mail, Jack you should have it distributed. The men are waiting for it.”
“Oh Lord yes. With this good news I’d quite forgotten it.” Jack opened the bag looking up at Stephen his face aglow with joy, in high spirits. He quickly picked out those letters for Stephen and himself . “Killick come in and take the mail bag to the wardroom.”
Killick had been standing behind the door and so entered the cabin almost immediately, nodding to the Doctor. Killick’s expression changed to something like a smile. “Come on Stephen enough, let’s go on deck.” He held Stephen’s hand and led him up to the deck, smiling and laughing.
Stephen smiled at him, but once on deck looked a little embarrassed when Jack announced, “Gentlemen I wish to present to you, your new Captain, Dr Maturin.”
“It’s only a nominal appointment. I shall be seconded aboard the flagship. I’m sure a more competent officer will be placed in command.” Stephen murmured.
There was a round of congratulations and handshaking and a loud “Huzzah for the Doctor” echoed from all around the ship. “I would wish to invite all the officers to the cabin to dine today to celebrate Stephen’s commission, but as he is a member of your company perhaps the wardroom would wish to arrange a special celebration first.”
“Oh yes sir, I think you and the Doctor should dine together today and I will be more than happy to arrange a special dinner to celebrate this excellent news. On Sunday when you usually dine with us, sir?” Mr Harding asked Jack.
“Excellent suggestion, though I have already invited Mr Reade to dine today, so he will be with us. Mr Wells, Mr Glover and Mr Hanson you will join us I hope.” Jack was expansive in his high good humour.
A Friendship Dissected, Chapter 6 - Coming Together Again Part 2