ames and Mina held their daughter's small hands as they walked toward the pier. They laughed as she released them to chase a seagull pattering quickly down the wooden planks. 

     "Stay close, Evie," called out James. 

     He and Mina hurried behind her and caught up just as a local priest stood in her way. 

     "Why if it isn't little Evie Fenwick," called out the priest in a joyful tone. "How are ye this fine mornin', my little lady?" 

     "I'm fine, thank you, Father O'Brien," she replied in a sweet voice. "Did you know today is my birthday? I'm five!" she declared with her hand held up, all five fingers displayed to make the point. 

     Father O'Brien chuckled and nodded. "I was the one baptized ye," he replied. "Yer growin' to be a fine young lady, indeed!" 

     She giggled when he patted her head and lightly tussled her soft blonde locks. "Mother bought me this lovely dress for my birthday," she told him while spinning around for him to see. "Do you like it?" 

     "Why, I haven't seen a more dashing lass in all three provinces," he said with a serious expression. "Such a lovely shade of lilac." 

     "Thank you, Father," she giggled, her rosy cheeks round and dimpled. 

     "Good morning, Father," greeted James and Mina. 

     "Lord and Lady Fenwick," the priest said with a tilt of his black hat. "A blessed mornin’ to ye and yer family." 

     "Is anyone hurt, Father?" asked Mina worriedly as she looked down at his black bag. 

     The priest followed her gaze and lifted the bag slightly as he shook his head. 

     "No, Mi’lady," he replied to her concern. "My blessin' bag isn't fer the sick or dyin' today. I've a parishioner in the countryside needs seein' to every now and again. Hopin' prayers and faith will keep him safe." 

     "I see," Molly said with a smile.

     "Uncle Rorik!" they heard Evie call out. 

     They watched her jump up and down on her tiptoes as a tall man in a deep red coat descended the boarding plank of a ship moored nearby. 

     Father O'Brien gave the man a nod and then bid his farewell to James and Mina before he hurried off.