Chapter Six Summary

The Massachusetts Bay Company is prospering and planning its first voyage for March, with seven hundred people, including two ministers, signed on to sail to New England on several ships. John feels it is God's work that is making the venture successful. He is exceptionally proud of his son, Jack, and feels there is hope for Harry and Bess. However, John becomes painfully upset when Jack tells him he wants to marry Martha Fones. Jack has already applied for the special license that allows first cousins to marry, and has almost felt pushed into the idea by the innocent Martha. Bess does not want to be left behind in England with Jack and Martha together.

John Winthrop goes to Groton for the last time, having been in London preparing for the trip. He, Harry, and the two younger boys say goodbye...