My arrival in America

We arrive in America...going past this magnificent statue of a women it is so breathtaking and unimaginable. I have held my breathe for a few moments now that i have not noticed and i feel very light headed. Holding the rail of the ship i bend over, close my eyes and take a few breaths. Slowly i rise and open them...we have reached port; people are getting off. Ronan grabs my arm lightly and we walk down onto the wooden deck.

It is really crowded. Shoulder to shoulder would be an understatement. We make our way through the crowds and into a line to get admitted into the States. Ellis Island 1893, a sign says while we enter into a building. Walls and drapes are surrounding everything. we go in one by one in a process.

We must go through a physical examination in a matter of seconds. If we fail it we get deported, of the time i have been in the line i have only noticed that two people have been sent back. It must be hard and devastating to have to go back. But it must be for the greater good. Me and Ronan have made it through the physical examination...now comes another test. Apparently we must be able to read, write, have proof that we can work, and have at least 25 dollars. It is a good thing Ronan got money from the Rich lady, he gave me 30 and he kept 40. We pass it and now are on our way to the streets.

It is a good thing i have taught Ronan how to read and write...all he knew while we where growing up was to talk. His father was well educated and so was his mother...i do not know why they did not teach him anything though. When he dealt with customers he would have me around to make sure he was not getting gypped out of his money and rights.I was happy that we made it. From what i see it is a lovely place and the people are friendly also.

We walk to the corner of the street and stand there for a moment. Then a young boy of around eleven comes to us and asks us if we are Irish and in need of food and shelter. He tells us to follow him and we do so. His name is Niall. He takes us to his father. They are sweet men.