A Voice in the Wind

Hadassah stands on the deck of a Roman merchant vessel, relishing the fresh sea air and thinking of the apostles: Peter, James, and John were men of the sea, “sometimes profane and often full of pride” (371). Marcus approaches, moved by her tenderness and serenity. He confesses his feelings to her, asking her to call him “Marcus” like she did before, and again she retreats from his advances. Their circular debate resumes, as Marcus argues that love is pleasurable and natural, and Hadassah quotes Paul’s letter to the Corinthians: “Love is patient, Marcus…Love is kind” (374). Decimus interrupts them, asking Hadassah why she is not with Julia. Hadassah apologizes and goes belowdecks. Marcus grows angry with his father for not allowing Hadassah a moment of fresh air.

Days later, the ship is rocked by a storm, and Julia, suffering from seasickness and guilt, is inconsolable. Hadassah falls asleep in the windy corridor outside her room, and Marcus carries her to his cabin, covering her shivering body with fur blankets. He is disquieted by his feelings for her; it is not the physical passion he usually feels for women, but something more tender and protective.