Mutti, Sarah, Hans, their children and Herr Finkham accompanied Agatha, Andres and John to their ship. They were sailing on the Europa. She was a beautiful ship. “The Europa and the SS Bremen are the two most advanced, high-speed steam turbine ocean vessels on the seas,” said Herr Finkham, knowingly.
“Both earned the Blue Riband,” added Mutti.
“What is the Blue Riband?” asked Sarah.
“A reward for a ship who crosses the Atlantic Ocean in regular service with the record highest average speed for that year. Only five German ships have one it,” replied Mutti. “And, twenty-five British ships.”
“It is unofficial,” cried Herr Finkham.
“Our own Bremen shipping company, Norddeutsche Lloyd built her in 1928, the year John was born. You know Lloyd Agatha. Ernst’s uncle was on the board. Did Ernst never talk to you about Lloyd?” At Earnst’s name, Agatha’s eyes pained. Mutti understood. She changed the subject.
“The Europa works transatlantic sea route, exclusively. She is a fast ship.” Mutti looked at the Europa like a prize stallion. Agatha could see in her eyes that she wanted to come. She wanted to ask her, beg her to reconsider but she knew Mutti’s decision was firm. She was staying in Germany with Herr Finkham and Sarah. Their loyalty to a country that did not seem to want them was impressive, thought Agatha.
The ship’s whistle blew. It was the signal to leave.