Chapter 1 Summary

The year is 1687. Sixteen-year-old Kit Tyler is a passenger on the Dolphin. This ship is bringing her from Barbados to the American colonies. Kit is traveling alone. As the boat pulls into Saybrook Port, she is talking to Nat Eaton, the captain's son, on the deck. Kit is very excited, as she has never been to America before. She is disappointed when she hears that Mrs. Eaton, who has taken her under her wing, will be leaving boat. Kit begs to go ashore with her, just for the ride. Kit will be returning to the boat to continue on her journey to Wethersfield further up the river, where her aunt lives.

Saybrook is a bit of a disappointment to Kit. She is expecting a larger town. She is also surprised at the drab and sober dressing of the Puritans. The severe lines and...