The next evening, after successfully hanging every sail on both completed clippers, Mary-Michael, Ian and Lucky toasted each other as Mr. Watkins entered the parlor. Her husband gave her a curious glance. “You would start the toasts without me, Mrs. Watkins?”
“Sir, this was but the first of many toasts we will share tonight,” Mary-Michael said through her smile. “This was honoring the completion of Captain Ross’ Lady S, and Captain Gualtiero’s Lady M. Tomorrow we take the Lady S dancing. I would very much like for you to attend.” Even as she said the words she prayed his health would sustain him through two long days at sea. If, after the first day, her husband was over-taxed from a day in the sun and wind, she thought to postpone the trials for the second ship until he’d rested and reviv
