Soon after John Rolfe joined Pocahontas on her voyage to return home, they were engaged to be married. Pocahontas was very happy and so was John Rolfe. They couldn’t wait for the months ahead to be married. However, Pocahontas sometimes wondered what John Smith was doing. While Pocahontas was in London, John Smith had decided to travel the world. Pocahontas finally found her way and wanted to return home. So they went their separate ways. Pocahontas missed John Smith and wouldn’t mind seeing him again. But she doubted that their paths would ever cross.

Once Pocahontas and John returned they quickly announced to the village that they would soon marry. Everyone was shocked, Pocahontas didn’t know John very long, only a few months, but everyone knew that they must have loved each other very much. Pocahontas also informed everyone that John Smith was still alive and well. Powhatan was especially ecstatic, but was confused that Pocahontas was engaged to another man. “I do not understand why your hearts have strayed from one another.” He told his daughter. “Things change father, John and I have followed different paths. The past is gone and I have found my way: John Rolfe.” Pocahontas replied.  Powhatan nodded and hugged his daughter but he had always thought that Pocahontas would love no other but John Smith.

One summer day in June, Pocahontas was in the village talking with her best friend, Nakoma. Suddenly, John Rolfe came running down the hill into the village. Pocahontas stood up; noticing how excited John was acting. “Guess what?!” John asked Pocahontas in excitement. “What is it?” Pocahontas asked with a little laugh. “It’s just unbelievable, you’ll never guess what I have found! Tobacco!” John looked at her with widened eyes. Pocahontas stared at him. Nakoma stared as well.  “It’s an amazing plant! It will make us so much money!” John replied happily. “Just wait till the king sees it!” “Um, that’s wonderful John but…” Pocahontas began. “This is the greatest thing that has ever happened to us! Come on, you have to see it!” John exclaimed and with that he was off. Nakoma looked at Pocahontas. “Doesn’t he realize that we know what it is?” Nakoma asked Pocahontas. “I guess not! But let’s let him think he has discovered it. It seems to make him so happy.” Pocahontas said goodbye to Nakoma and went to Jamestown to see him.

“Just look at it all! Isn’t it glorious? Just think of all the money we’ll make!” John said as he stared at the tobacco, which was growing from the ground. Pocahontas looked up at John and asked, “ Why do you care so much about money? We have each other and our people, we do not need it.” “What?” John asked confused. “Money is what makes the world go round!” John replied. “ No, love does.” Pocahontas said. John sighed, “I know you are right, but money can give us things we could never have!” John argued. “Money can only give you man made things, like material objects. We can give each other something much more important: love.” Pocahontas explained. John looked at her, he thought Pocahontas knew nothing of money. She never used it or saw its meaning, so he relented and agreed. John talked no more of money but it was his soul purpose of keeping the tobacco. Pocahontas thought that he was so excited about the crop, because it was something he could grow and nourish with his own hands.

 

Later that night John Rolfe had not returned to the village and Pocahontas had begun to worry. Powhatan had noticed his daughter’s distress and did not want her out there at night. He was about to send someone for John when he saw him coming down into the village. “Where have you been?!” Pocahontas asked. “I was setting up the tobacco field, it took all day.” He answered. “I was worried something had happened to you.” Pocahontas told him. “There’s nothing to worry about, only to look forward to. You’ll see, in time we will have everything we could ever want!” Pocahontas looked at him; all she wanted was love and happiness.

Meanwhile, back in London, John Smith had not yet left. John had changed his mind soon after he had sad goodbye to Pocahontas. He still had very strong feelings for her, and he knew they would never die. But now he had to see the King and Queen. After all they had prepared a ship for him to travel, as a reward for capturing Ratcliffe. John had to try and convince them to change the route of the ship to Jamestown, where he knew he belonged with Pocahontas.

The guards had informed the King that John was standing in front of them and had requested a meeting. The King was in disbelief, but more than anything he was upset. John was supposed to have already departed from London, there was obviously a problem, and King James didn’t like problems or delays for that matter. The King immediately told the guard to allow John to enter the throne room. “What is the meaning of all this John Smith?! Why in the world have you not yet left?!” The King asked, obviously upset. “I apologize greatly for this inconvenience, but I simply cannot travel.” John answered.  “Is everything alright? You’re not injured are you?” The Queen asked concerned. “Not at all your Majesty, I cannot travel because I must return to Jamestown.” The King and Queen stared at him, “What could possibly make you want to return to that place? There’s nothing there for an adventurer such as your self. A captain is meant to travel and seek new worlds, not dwell on an old one.” The King told John. “Well I’m sure there is a perfectly good reason for why John Smith has requested this.” The Queen looked at John assured. “Yes… well what, exactly, is your reason John Smith?” The King asked suspiciously. “There is someone there that I need to see, because of her that is where I belong.” John replied. The Queen smiled, “For love?” She asked. “Yes, for love, your excellency.” John answered. “Love?! You want to change the entire route of the ship to return to Jamestown, for love?!” The King asked very confused. The Queen looked at the King, she knew he thought love was a ridiculous reason. John looked at the King, expecting him to reply with a firm and annoyed “NO!” The King stared at John and before he was about to answer, the Queen spoke up. “James, I think that it would be best if we talked this over… together.” She suggested as she stared at him. The King always loved having his own way and never consulted the Queen unless she made it her business, which she always had to do. King James looked at her and relented. “Fine, we shall think over your request on the route alteration of the ship.” John smiled and knew he had a chance because of the Queens interception. “Thank you so very much for your time and consideration.” John said appreciatively and smiled at the Queen before he left.

John Smith was very worried he might never see Pocahontas again. He thought about her everyday and wrote numerous letters. He always wondered if she missed him too. However, his worrying would soon be over when his presence was requested at the palace. John had finally received his wish. The King and Queen had changed the ship’s destination to Jamestown. Before John knew it he was on his way to see Pocahontas.

Meanwhile, in Jamestown, Pocahontas was watching John order the new employees, which he had hired to work on the crop. Because of this, Pocahontas knew John had not invested in the tobacco for his own pride, but for money alone. She did not understand why he had become so excited about money all of the sudden. Pocahontas realized that money was the way of England, without it you could not live very well. But John had her and the village to depend on and help out with, money was simply not needed. Pocahontas wondered to herself if John had been this preoccupied with money when he lived in London. John seemed very stressed with the tobacco, he would complain very often about how the men were doing everything wrong. Pocahontas tried to tell John he needed to relax but he refused and stated that the crop needed him. “Well I need you, you always come home late at night. The only time I can see you is if I come here.” Pocahontas told him. “There’s just a lot going on here and if I miss just one day something will go wrong. I’m sure you understand, your village works hard everyday to keep their fields alive.” John related. “Well of course, we need them to live.” Pocahontas replied. “See?  A lot of work is acquired in a crop. I promise I will see you tonight.” John told Pocahontas, trying to hint to her that he had no time to talk. Pocahontas looked at him, “I know you are very busy but…” Pocahontas began but John had started to yell had one of the men again. “No, no, no! You’re doing it all wrong!” He complained. Pocahontas sighed sadly and began to walk back home.

The next day Pocahontas, as usual, found her self alone again. She had least had her wonderful company. Meeko, Percy and Flit were there to comfort her. They knew very well that John wasn’t spending all that much time with her. Pocahontas was sitting by the great waterfall where she had once met John Smith. As she sat there she held his compass in her hand, just staring at it. Pocahontas then gazed into the mist where she had first seen him. Pocahontas decided she should talk with Grandmother Willow, who always had the time to help her with her problems.

Grandmother Willow was awake and was happy to see Pocahontas had come for a visit. “Well hello my child, I didn’t think I would be seeing you too often, now that you have a wedding to prepare for.” “You know I will always have time to see you, no matter what.” Pocahontas responded. “Well, how is every thing? I imagine you must be very happy!” Grandmother Willow implied. Flit looked at Meeko and Percy who knew very well that not everything was going too smoothly. “I’m actually… worried Grandmother Willow.” Pocahontas replied. “Worried?! Oh! Well marriage is a wonderful thing. Everyone gets nervous, why even your mother came to me on the day of her wedding, she was shaking like a leaf!” Grandmother told Pocahontas. “It’s not so much that I’m worried about the wedding day, I’m worried about John Rolfe.” Pocahontas told her. “Oh dear! He’s alright isn’t he?” Grandmother Willow asked a little worried. “Oh yes he’s fine, it’s just he’s been very preoccupied lately. You see, he’s found tobacco growing near Jamestown and he has become so excited about it. At first I thought he was so happy because he would be able to grow something with his own hands. But I have found that is not so.” Pocahontas said. “Well, this is certainly new news! Why has he become so busy with tobacco if it is not for his pride?” Grandmother Willow asked curiously. “All of the sudden, John has taken such an interest in money. It’s all he talk’s about. He told me it’s what makes the world go round.” “Really?” Grandmother Willow asked in bewilderment. “It’s like he has changed, he’s never even talked about money before and now… and now it’s all he thinks about.” Pocahontas said sadly. “You must talk to him, tell him how you feel.” Grandmother Willow said. “I have tried numerous times, he just doesn’t listen. I’m so confused. I don’t know what to do.” Pocahontas said looking down. Grandmother Willow looked at her. Meeko nudged Pocahontas a bit; no one knew what to do about this dilemma. “Well if he doesn’t even listen to his own fiancée then he will have to listen to her Grandmother.” Grandmother Willow told Pocahontas. “What?” Pocahontas asked. “Don’t worry I’ll put some sense into that head of his!” Grandmother Willow replied. “Oh Grandmother Willow, thank you but I can’t even get John to walk ten feet from that field. I’ll just have to keep trying.” Pocahontas responded. “You really need to tell him how you feel about the tobacco as well as how you fell about him.” Grandmother Willow finally stated. Pocahontas nodded. “If you change your mind I’m always up for giving him some sense!” Pocahontas smiled, but she knew this was something Grandmother Willow just couldn’t help her with. Pocahontas loved John and if he loved her he would take the time to listen.

A month had come and gone quickly for everyone, except for Pocahontas who had spent much of the time alone. Nothing was resolved about John spending all of his time with the tobacco. And instead of being home or enjoying the forest, Pocahontas stayed at Jamestown. Her village, especially Powhatan and Nakoma, were unhappy about this. However, Powhatan knew Pocahontas loved John so he did his best not to complain about the absence of her presence. But it was hard for Nakoma; she could not hide her feelings as easily. Pocahontas was her best friend and she wanted her to be happy. But she barely ever saw Pocahontas and had decided to plan a canoe ride long ago in which she would finally spend time with her. “Pocahontas!” Nakoma yelled, when she had finally spotted her. Nakoma ran up to her and asked if she would join her on a canoe ride. “I would love to but I have to get to Jamestown.” Pocahontas answered as she started to walk away, but Nakoma grabbed her arm. “Pocahontas, I thought we were friends.” Nakoma said as she looked up at her. “Nakoma! Of course we are friends, we always will be.” Pocahontas answered in shock. “Friends spend time together, they have fun together. We haven’t done any of those things since you’ve come back. I understand that you have a fiancée and a wedding to worry about but I miss you. I’ve planned this trip since the time you left!” Pocahontas looked at Nakoma, now feeling a little guilty. “I’m so sorry, I know that I haven’t given you much of my time.” Pocahontas replied. “Why do you torture yourself like this?” Asked Nakoma. Pocahontas looked at her, “Don’t worry about me, I’m just fine. I just need to spend more time with John. I think it’s very important we spend time together before the wedding.” Pocahontas explained to Nakoma. “You need to tell him that, not me. You can’t forever hide your feelings. I know how neglected you feel, he’s never here.” Nakoma replied. “You are strong and brave and I admire you for that but now you have to show it to John Rolfe. You can’t keep on going like this!” Nakoma told her friend. “I have to go.” Pocahontas mumbled quickly and took off. “Pocahontas!” Nakoma shouted but Pocahontas never stopped.

When Pocahontas reached Jamestown, John Rolfe was where he always was, near the field. As Pocahontas came closer to him she kept hearing Nakoma’s voice. She knew her friend was right but she just didn’t know what to do yet. John was reading a long piece of paper, which had a list of all the supplies he needed. “Pocahontas!” John asked as he turned to her. Pocahontas was surprised he had turned to look at her. “Glad you’re here!” Pocahontas smiled at her acknowledged presence. “Well I thought that we should take some time and talk…” Pocahontas started. “Oh of course,  but can I ask a favor?” John asked. “Uh, well sure.” Pocahontas answered. “I need to run into Jamestown and pick up a few things, do you think you could just keep an eye on the tobacco for me?” John asked. Pocahontas looked at him, “Oh… I suppose.” Pocahontas answered. “Thanks a lot, I’ll be right back!” John said and started off. Pocahontas sighed and watched him until he disappeared. Pocahontas sat down and stared at the field. She looked around and suddenly a crowd had formed at the docks of Jamestown. What’s going on? Pocahontas asked herself as she stood up. Her curiosity got the best of her and she ran down to see what all the fuss was about. As Pocahontas approached the crowd she could see a massive ship approaching the dock. “Doesn’t look like an ordinary supply ship to me, must be new comers.” Said a man nearby. Pocahontas stared at the ship, wondering who could be aboard. Suddenly a big crash was heard from behind and almost everyone’s attention was drawn to it. Pocahontas spun around to see what had caused all the commotion. Sure enough there was Meeko sitting on the ground looking quite dazed. He was covered in biscuits and the bakers cart was turned over on its side with its front wheel still spinning. The baker seemed very upset and started to yell at Pocahontas, whom he knew was supposed to be in control of the raccoon. “Look at what your crazy animal did to my food! Everything’s ruined! Can’t you control him?! A wild animal shouldn’t even be here in a busy town!” The baker shouted angrily. “I’m so sorry, I promise it will never happen again.” Pocahontas apologized as she tried to help clean up. “Look at this mess! Who’s gonna pay for this catastrophe! The baker shouted. “I will.” Said a strong, handsome voice. Pocahontas looked up in front of her, her eyes wide. The man’s voice was all too familiar to her and it was one she thought she’d never hear again. Pocahontas slowly stood up and turned around. “JOHN SMITH!” Pocahontas exclaimed happily. Meeko, Flit and Percy stood frozen with their mouths dropped open. Pocahontas and John both embraced strongly and were all too happy to see each other. When they finally parted, Pocahontas looked at him. “I thought I’d never see you again!” “Never say never!” John answered happily. Pocahontas stared at him, never in her wildest dreams did she ever think she would see his face again.

Afterwards John and Pocahontas walked together along the beach and John had begun to explain his unexpected return. “Remember when we said our good-byes in London? Because we wanted different things?” Pocahontas looked at John (still unable to believe he was actually there). “Pocahontas, (John stopped walking) when I walked down those steps, I stopped because I knew I loved you. I was doing something extremely wrong. When I reached the top, you had already left. But I just couldn’t give up, I raced to the docks, but I was too late, you were gone.” Pocahontas looked at him; John Smith still loved her! “I’m so sorry for what I have done, I wrote you so many letters apologizing for the way I had acted and for how I felt.” John continued. “Letters?” Pocahontas asked confused. “You didn’t get any of them?” John asked puzzled. Pocahontas shook her head. Just then John Rolfes voice interrupted them.

“Pocahontas what are you…” John Rolfe began. But of course he saw John Smith. “John Rolfe? What are you doing here?” John asked as he spun around. “What am I doing here?! What are you doing here?!” John Rolfe asked. The two stared at each other; unable to understand why each of them was there. As they were about to, what seemed like argue, start talking again, Pocahontas stopped them. “Wait!” Pocahontas said as she came between them. Meeko, Flit and Percy looked on from a distance. They wondered, what was going to happen? Pocahontas took a deep breath and proceeded to explain. “John Smith’s here to see me.” Pocahontas looked at John Rolfe. Pocahontas then looked at John Smith who stood behind her. “John Rolfe and I…are engaged…to be married.” Pocahontas looked into his face. “What?!” John Smith asked in great bewilderment. “I thought everyone in London would have known by now. It’s been a month already.” John Rolfe added, sounding quite proud of him self. “But… how? When? Why?” John asked as he looked into Pocahontas’ face. “John Rolfe came with me on the ship home, I love him.” Pocahontas struggled to explain. It was difficult to tell John Smith all of this at once; after all she used to have a very strong love for him. John Rolfe looked at both of them, Pocahontas looked very nervous and John Smith was looking down, he seemed very distraut. John Smith had all intentions of starting over again with Pocahontas. He wanted so much for them to start where they had left off. But now his dream had become dashed and impossible. “It’s all my fault.” John Smith said quietly. “Oh, no…John.” Pocahontas replied. But John began to walk away. “Congratulations John Rolfe, she’s a wonderful person.” “John!” Pocahontas shouted for him. But John Smith continued to walk away. Pocahontas went after him but John Rolfe stopped her. “Let him go.” He told her. “No, I have to talk to him.” Pocahontas argued as she passed him. John Rolfe stood there and watched Pocahontas as she ran to John Smith.

 

“John, please wait, this is no ones fault.” Pocahontas tried to tell him. “No… I left you. If I had just stayed, I…” He began but Pocahontas interrupted him. “At that moment we had found what we wanted.” John looked at Pocahontas, “Yes you did…but I made a terrible mistake.” John touched her face and started off. “Wait, where are you going?” Pocahontas asked him. “I have to find a place to stay.” John answered. “Well, come to my village, we would be honored to have you.” Pocahontas told him. “No I couldn’t, I don’t want to intrude.” John replied. “Intrude? Don’t you remember what my father said to you before you left? He said, “You will always be welcome among our people.” You saved his life and he would want nothing more than to see you alive and well.” Pocahontas told John. John looked at Pocahontas, he knew she was right. John finally agreed and Pocahontas waved to John Rolfe. He watched them walk into the forest, he didn’t seem too happy. But he stayed to work on the tobacco.

On the way to the village Pocahontas suggested they’d stop and see a friend. John knew exactly who she was talking about. “Grandmother Willow? It’s me Pocahontas.” Pocahontas said as she approached the enormous tree. “Pocahontas! How are you child?” She asked. “Oh I’m fine, but you have a visitor.” Pocahontas answered. “Oh really? That’s wonderful, who is it?” Grandmother Willow asked. John Smith stepped into the glade and Grandmother Willow couldn’t believe her eyes. “John Smith! I don’t believe it! What are you doing here child?!” Grandmother Willow asked with excitement. “Long time no see! I’ve just decided not to travel, I came here for a visit.” He replied. “That’s just wonderful, I thought I would never see that handsome face again.” Grandmother Willow told John. John smiled but inside he felt awful. “John is going to stay in the village with us, I knew it would make you very happy to see him.” Pocahontas told the old willow. “Oh my spirits have definitely been lifted and just wait till your father sees him.” Grandmother Willow said. “I know, my father will be so happy.” Pocahontas replied. “I can’t wait to see him either, he’s a good man.” John added. Pocahontas smiled. “Well I know one thing’s for sure, anyone who sees you today will be very ecstatic, like my Pocahontas was. I can only imagine your face when you saw him dear.” Grandmother Willow said happily. “I am very happy to have him back. I have missed you so much John.” Pocahontas said smiling, as she looked at him. John tried to smile, but he felt he was only intruding since he had discovered she was engaged to John Rolfe. “Well I’m sure the both of you are tired, you had better get to the village before dark.” Grandmother Willow informed them. “Yes, we should try to get there before night.” Pocahontas agreed. “Well it was great to see you again Grand mother Willow.” John told her with a smile. “Me too, you make sure you come back soon.” She replied happily. John nodded and climbed down the tree. As Grandmother Willow watched them leave she sighed greatly. By now John must have known about the engagement. And Grandmother Willow could sense that he carried a heavy heart.

The sun was setting by the time John and Pocahontas had reached the village. John couldn’t believe the beauty he saw from the hill where they were standing. “It’s wonderful, you have a most beautiful home.” John told Pocahontas as he stared. “Thank you, my people and I are very proud of our village.” Pocahontas replied. John looked at her, “And you should be.” “Come on!” Pocahontas said, waving her hand. John followed her down the steep hill into the village. “Over here, my father should be there by now.” Pocahontas told John as they neared his hut. “Father? Are you here?” Pocahontas asked as she entered the hut. “Pocahontas? You have returned early.” Powhatan said as he hugged her. “Yes, well I have a wonderful surprise for you father.” Pocahontas told him, grinning. Pocahontas stepped aside and John stood there at the entrance. Powhatan stood there too shocked to move. “Chief Powhatan.” John said smiling with an out stretched hand. “My brother!” Powhatan finally said as he took Johns hand and pulled him into a hug. Pocahontas stood there beaming, her father looked so thrilled to see his savior. “It has been many suns since I have see your face John Smith.” Powhatan said. The three were sitting outside talking by firelight. “Yes it has been a very long time since I have been here, it’s still just as beautiful.” John said as he glanced at Pocahontas.  Pocahontas smiled but looked down; she just couldn’t help feeling a bit of guilt. She knew John had come a very long way just to see her. And it was just to learn she was in love with another. “Pocahontas had told me you were alive and I couldn’t believe it and I asked, then why is he not here?!” Powhatan said with a laugh. John replied with a forced laugh. He knew how Powhatan felt about him and Pocahontas. Pocahontas looked down and her father could sense the tension, he knew she had told John about her engagement. “Well your eyes seem heavy brother, perhaps you should get some rest.” Powhatan told John Smith. “Yes it’s late.” John agreed. “I’ll show you to your tee pee John.” Pocahontas offered as she stood up. “I will see you in the morning then.” Powhatan said and watched as Pocahontas lead John away.

“I really appreciate all of this.” John Smith said to Pocahontas on their way to the tee pee. “Of course, you know how happy I am to have you.” Pocahontas replied. “I’ve just missed you so much.” John said. “ And I thought I would never see you again. I’m very happy you have returned.” Said Pocahontas. “Do you think John Rolfe will mind?” John asked her. “What do you mean?” Pocahontas asked looking at him. John didn’t know what to say but she quickly realized. “Of course not! John won’t mind at all, he won’t think anything of it.” What could she say? Try to enjoy everything and forget about my engagement? Pocahontas felt awkward; she just didn’t know what to tell John. “It’s just… he didn’t seem too happy to see me.” John stated. “Oh no, John was just surprised he wasn’t upset. Don’t think that, you and John are good friends and you always will be.” Pocahontas assured him. “You’re right, John Rolfe is my friend, and I’m very happy for you both.” John replied with a smile. “Good night and thanks for everything Pocahontas.” John said and touched her arm. Pocahontas stood there as John entered the tee pee. As she turned to leave she took a deep breath and touched her arm, something just didn’t feel right.

The next day Pocahontas had woke up early and found that John Smith had woken up even earlier. She found him by the river with Nakoma. “Well it’s great to finally meet you!” Pocahontas heard Nakoma tell John. John immediately turned and saw Pocahontas. “Good morning!” John said. “Good morning.” Pocahontas replied. Pocahontas looked at Nakoma who shook her head. Pocahontas looked down and sat beside John. “What? What’s wrong?” John asked. “Nothing, everything’s fine.” Pocahontas answered. John looked at Nakoma who looked at him and sighed. “Well I have to get started on my chores, I’ll see you later Pocahontas.” Nakoma said touching her friend’s shoulder. “Goodbye.” Pocahontas and John replied. “So would you like a tour?” Pocahontas asked as she looked at John. “Sure why not?” John answered. Pocahontas showed John the whole village. Everyone was already busy with his or her daily activities. Pocahontas showed John where the warriors stayed and their tools. She showed him where the food was prepared and where feasts and celebrations were held. “Any parties coming up?” John asked curiously. Pocahontas smiled, “Yes, actually, tonight.” “To night?” What are you celebrating?” John asked. “You!” Pocahontas answered. “Me?!” John asked surprised. “Yes, you! We’re having a feast in your honor.” Pocahontas informed him. “Wow!” John replied. Pocahontas laughed and they continued their tour.

“Everything is so beautiful! I can’t believe it.” John said as he overlooked the village from a tall cliff. Pocahontas nodded. John sighed quietly as he looked at her. She seemed to never change. She looked just like she did when he saw her first, with her hair blowing gracefully in the wind. John looked away and said, “So I heard John Rolfe is growing tobacco.” Pocahontas quickly looked at him. “Nakoma told me this morning.” John explained as he looked at her. “Yes, he’s very happy about it.” Pocahontas said. “He’ll make a lot of money if he can sell.” John added. “Yes, he said the same thing.” Pocahontas replied. “You don’t seem too happy about it.” John said. “No I’m very happy for him, he’s very excited about it.” Pocahontas answered. “What about you? Are you happy?” John asked. “Yes, of course I am.” Pocahontas answered. John looked away, “You’re sure everything’s alright?” John asked again, sounding concerned. “John? Why are you so worried for me? Everything’s perfect.” Pocahontas answered. As John was about to speak he turned around and found a familiar tail sticking out of his bag. “Hey Meeko!” John said as he pulled him out by his tail. Pocahontas laughed as she stared at Meeko, who was stuffing his face with biscuits. “I saved those especially for you.” John said smiling as he set the raccoon down. Percy and Flit approached and soon the five were sitting there together again.

As the day progressed, John Smith had remembered that Pocahontas said she hadn’t received any of his letters. He knew something had gone wrong and wanted to find out why. “Pocahontas I’ve been meaning to ask you, do you know who the mailman of Jamestown is?” “No, I do not know him. But I wonder why I didn’t get any of your letters.” Pocahontas replied. “Me either but I think we should go down and see why, if you want.” John suggested. “Yes I think we should.” Pocahontas agreed. And with that Pocahontas and John left for Jamestown. When they finally found the small and dusty post office, they saw a very heavy man with a brown beard and a sweaty face sitting behind the desk asleep. He wore a brown uniform and his small hat was partially covering his face. The man was obviously not working very hard because of his loud snoring. As John walked up to the man he found a small bell sitting on the desk. John picked it up and rang it right next to the man’s hear. “John! What are you doing?!” Pocahontas asked, surprised by his rude gesture. The man fell right onto the floor, startled from the loud sound. “Get up Bigotman!” John yelled to the man. Pocahontas looked at John, he obviously knew him. The man paused; he seemed to be very confused and very scared. One big, chubby hand slapped the desk as the man raised himself up. “John Sssssmith?!” The man asked in fright. “Usually I say at your service, but for you I can make an exception.” John said smoothly. Bigotman continued to stare at John, “Wwwwwhat are you doing here?!” He asked nervously. “I should be asking you that question, now where are they?” John asked. “What are you talking about?” The man replied, out of breath. “Don’t play dumb with me, you know what I’m talking about, the letters, where are they?!” John asked sounding very upset. “Oh! The letters!” Bigotman said, acting like he had just realized. “I didn’t have time to send them to that village.” He added nastily as he looked at Pocahontas. Pocahontas frowned at him. “Don’t get smart, for you that’s a dangerous thing and we don’t want you to hurt yourself.” John told him. Bigotman obviously knew not to push John so he went in the back to retrieve the letters. “What, exactly, is going on?!” Pocahontas asked, dying to know. “That’s Willard Bigotman and he’s a total jerk, very racist. He can’t stand those who are different.” John explained. “Like my people.” Pocahontas replied. “Yes, unfortunately, but he’s the all mouth and no action type.” John added. “What did you do to make him so afraid of you?” Pocahontas asked. “Well let’s just say he knows I’m one not afraid to fight for what is right. He’s a big supporter of Ratcliffe and he knows that I ended up putting him in jail.” John answered. “He started an up roar one time in London about Jamestown and how your people shouldn’t be here.” Pocahontas stared at into the back of the room. “How can anyone be so angry with those who have done him no harm?” Pocahontas asked. “Like I said he’s a total jerk.” John answered. “Well, here they are Mr. Smith!” Willard said nervously as he waddled over to them. John grabbed the envelopes out of his huge hands and looked through them. “You make sure you actually do your job and distribute the mail, or I’ll be back.” John warned him. “Oh yes of course!” Willard replied humbly. John turned and he and Pocahontas walked out together. As soon as they had left Meeko had heard everything and quickly sneaked into the office. “John Smith, humph! What a looser, what a joke! He thinks he’s mister big shot! I could easily take him if I wanted to!” Mean while Meeko had pushed Willard’s chair out of the way, and as he went to sit he fell right to the floor with a humongous thud!

“There are so many letters! They’re wonderful! If only I had gotten them.” Pocahontas told John as she looked at them. Pocahontas stared at one particular letter in which John had wrote her saying how much he loved her. “Are you alright? John asked as he’d noticed she was staring at the letter. “Oh! Yes I’m fine.” Pocahontas said. John smiled, “I’m glad you at least got to see them. Better late then never. Although you should have gotten them a long time ago.” John said. “Oh I would never doubt your concern for me whether or not you wrote me.” Pocahontas told him with a smile. “Still it would be no excuse not to write.” John replied standing up. “I can’t not believe that that man refused to send them.” Pocahontas said. “I can. What I can’t believe is that Jamestown hired Willard Bigotman to be the mailman, he can’t even handle that.” John said. “He is a bitter person but I think it is only because he wants to be. I have learned that people can change but only if they want to.” Pocahontas said as she stood next to John. John turned to her. “Well, unfortunately, I don’t think Bigotman wants to.” “Let’s go, the feast is about to begin.” Pocahontas said to him. With that John and Pocahontas left to join the celebration.

The very next morning Pocahontas arose early, only to find John Rolfe hadn’t returned to the village last night. Meanwhile, John Smith was just awakening and as he stepped out of the tee pee, he saw Pocahontas heading into the forest. He sighed and then felt a hand rest on his shoulder. He spun around to see Powhatan standing there. “Good morning Powhatan.” John said to him. “Good morning my brother, it will be a beautiful day.” Powhatan said. “Yes it looks that way.” John said as he looked up into the clear and sunny sky. “But for my daughter it will be another lonely one.” Powhatan added as he saw Pocahontas disappear into the forest. “That is how she spends her days, alone. Though she maybe with John Rolfe in Jamestown, he pays her little attention.” John looked at Powhatan. “I will see you later John Smith.” He said before walking away. John looked into the forest, he had suspected that Pocahontas wasn’t very happy. Now he knew for sure how she felt.

When Pocahontas reached Jamestown she was very surprised to see that the field was left empty. There was no one working there, not even John Rolfe himself. Pocahontas walked over to the town a bit puzzled; it didn’t seem as busy as usual. There were very few people walking around. As she came closer she noticed that there was a huge crowd surrounding the meetinghouse. Pocahontas tried to see what exactly everyone was so interested in but the crowd was too large to get through. Pocahontas looked around and decided to head towards the back. When she reached the end she saw a door slightly opened and a familiar voice was heard from inside. Pocahontas opened the door slightly and peered in, there was John Rolfe’s back facing her and a large crowd in front of him. What is he doing? Pocahontas thought to herself, he’d never informed her that he was going to be giving a speech. “I expect you all know of my up coming marriage, but let me assure you that I marry not for myself but for you, the people of Jamestown! I marry for its prosperity and peace! From my union with the chief’s daughter we will stop the horrid fights and any future wars that may come upon us! I marry for you! Because of this marriage there will be no more wars!” John Rolfe shouted to the crowd and in response they burst into applause, but Pocahontas burst into tears. She could not believe what her fiancée had just said about their marriage. Pocahontas ran away as fast as she could with her eyes full of tears. John Smith appeared from out of the huge crowd as he saw Pocahontas race past him towards the forest. He knew she had heard the things John Rolfe had announced.

John Smith, of course, had run as fast as he could after Pocahontas. He finally stopped out of breath when he spotted her near the waterfall. He walked over to the edge and looked down. Pocahontas was kneeling on one of the rocks with her head down. “Pocahontas.” John said to her as he reached the bottom. Pocahontas turned her head and then stood up slowly. “John what are you doing here?” She asked as she quickly wiped the tears from her eyes. “Are you alright?” John asked her as he stepped on the rocks to reach her. “I’m fine.” Pocahontas answered quietly as she looked away. “I went into Jamestown to look for you and that’s when I noticed John Rolfe was at the meeting house. I thought you would be there.” John paused and finally said: “I heard what he said.” Pocahontas looked down and tears ran from her eyes. John lifted up her head and hugged her. “It’s alright Pocahontas.” John said trying to comfort her. “No. He’s changed and I have to face the fact that things are not alright.” Pocahontas replied as she looked up from his shoulder. What am I going to do? Pocahontas asked herself. But then, at last, she realized she was finally in the arms of the man she truly loved. Pocahontas looked up at John; “I’m so sorry John.” “For what?” John asked her confused. “For not telling you how I felt about everything and about how strongly I feel for you. I love you John, I have always loved you.” Pocahontas told him. Then, finally, they kissed. Despite the huge barriers that had separated them for so long, they now knew they would be together forever.

Pocahontas knew she had to return to Jamestown and tell John Rolfe that their engagement had come to end. As they reached Jamestown John squeezed Pocahontas’ hand in reassurance. Pocahontas looked up at him and John said, “ I’ll be right behind you.” Pocahontas made her way towards the town and spotted John Rolfe speaking with a group of people. Pocahontas approached him and said, “John?” John Rolfe turned around with a very surprised but worried look on his face. “Pocahontas! What are you doing here? I thought you said you were staying home.” Pocahontas looked down for a moment trying to put her self together. John Rolfe looked up and noticed John a few feet away. He realized something was going on. “Pocahontas?” John Rolfe asked her with concern. He had started to fear that she might have heard his speech. Pocahontas looked up at him with her eyes watering. “I heard the things that you said.” Pocahontas told him as her voice began to break. John Rolfe stared at her nervously and pulled her aside by her arm. “Pocahontas those things I said… aren’t true! I only…” “So you lied to an entire crowd? How can you get up in front of all those people and lie?” Pocahontas asked him as she stared at him with questioning eyes. “No one wants to hear we’re getting married for love! They want to make sure we will protect them in doing so. Don’t you want peace?” John asked her. “Of course, but not by way of a marriage. Marriage happens because two people love each other. And we do not… not any more. You have proved that today.” Pocahontas explained to him. John Rolfe stared at her. He knew she wasn’t about to buy his story. Pocahontas took her hand and slid the ring off and put it in John’s hand. “Good bye.” Pocahontas finally said and walked away. John Smith stood there looking at John Rolfe as he took Pocahontas’ hand, before walking away he shook his head at him. “This is all your fault Smith! I knew the moment I saw you with her you were going to be trouble!” But John and Pocahontas kept walking. It hurt Pocahontas to hear John say that but she had accepted, sadly, that he had truly changed. John Rolfe stood there breathing heavily from shouting while the crowd stared, unable to believe what had just happened.

John and Pocahontas had immediately announced to the village that they had renewed their love for one another. Everyone was very happy for them and Powhatan told them he knew they would find one another again. However, the chief was angry with what John Rolfe had said to Jamestown about their marriage. “He knows he has done wrong father, I feel we should leave it at that.” Pocahontas told Powhatan. Soon the village had prepared a quick but joyful feast for the two, and everyone was dancing and rejoicing. Nakoma had hugged her best friend and asked if she was all right. “I am much better Nakoma. I’m very relieved that I have followed my heart back to John.” Pocahontas said smiling as she watched him dance with the children. Suddenly the warriors where rushing to the chief who stood not far from Pocahontas. “What’s going on?” Nakoma asked with concern. “I don’t know.” Pocahontas replied as she rushed over to her father. John noticed the disturbance and ran over to Nakoma. “Is everything okay?” He asked. “I’m not sure. Pocahontas is with her father.” Nakoma answered. John hurried over to them to find out exactly what was going on. “A crowd from Jamestown has formed outside of our village, they seem very upset.” Powhatan quickly said as he rushed to the entrance. Pocahontas looked at John nervously and the two followed quickly behind the chief.

All of Powhatan’s brave warriors were lined up right in front of the villages’ entrance. They were all armed with spears and bow and arrows. Pocahontas stared into the angry mob who were caring torches and poles. “What do they want?” Pocahontas asked in confusement. John looked up at the huge crowd and who else was in the lead but Willard Bigotman. “Him! Its Bigotman.” John said pointing at the crowd. “I told you he was nothing but trouble!” John said to Pocahontas. Pocahontas knew what a battle was and this scene looked like the beginning of one. With out any hesitation Pocahontas ran past the warriors to get in-between both sides. “STOP, PLEASE!” She shouted. The mob seemed to settle down but their leader made sure not to. “This is all your fault savage!” The warriors picked up their bows ready to shoot to protect the princess. “I can’t believe I’m going to protect that idiot!” John whispered to himself. He jumped out into the opening with Pocahontas and tried to calm everyone. “You’re the savage Bigotman, look at yourself!” John shouted at him. “You actually think I’m scared of you Smith, Mr. Big shot? If it wasn’t for you that woman would have never put our lives in jeopardy!” Willard snapped back. Pocahontas stared at him and frowned. She and John looked at each other in confusement. “Because you dumped Rolfe you put all of Jamestown in danger!” It had become clear everyone was in fear for their lives because there would be no marriage. Since John Rolfe had reassured everyone there would be. “NO!” John Rolfe appeared out of the crowd. “It’s not Pocahontas’ fault at all. I’m to blame, I wasn’t something I should have been…there.” “Oh come on!” Willard yelled but surprisingly the crowd shouted, “SHUT UP!” They didn’t want to hear him anymore than anyone else did. “If you want someone to accuse and shout at, do it to me because this is all my fault.” John paused for a while as the crowd stood there. “So I want to tell you here Pocahontas, in front of everyone, I’m sorry for the horrible, false things that I said.” Pocahontas looked up at John as he stood there admitting his error. “If there are to be more wars, it will not start with me.” Powhatan stepped forward to assure them. “The chief speaks the truth, just because Pocahontas and I won’t be getting married does not mean there will be wars. I apologize greatly for giving you false accusations, I was very wrong. Besides, these people aren’t starting any battles, you are.” John Rolfe finally stated.  The assemble of people looked around and quickly realized John was right. Everyone apologized and after wards left for Jamestown. John looked at Pocahontas and then turned to leave.

The next day Pocahontas and John sat at the banks of the river with Meeko, Percy and Flit. Things were calm again and Pocahontas was very relieved that nothing bad had happened. “I’m proud of what John Rolfe did last night.” Pocahontas told John Smith. “Me too, it took a lot of courage for him to do that.” John agreed. “Someone’s here to see you Pocahontas.” Nakoma told her as she approached them. Pocahontas stood up and looked across the way and there stood John Rolfe. Pocahontas and John walked over to him. “I came back to apologize.” John Rolfe explained. “You already did.” Pocahontas replied. “Well I want to do it face to face and I also want to apologize for what I said to you John. I know what I did was terribly wrong and instead of admitting to it right away, I blamed it on you.” John Smith nodded and Pocahontas looked at him. “It was very brave of you to do what you did last night.” She said to John Rolfe. “I had to take action for my responsibilities instead of hiding from them, like I have been doing.” Pocahontas looked at him, she knew that he was deeply sorry for what he had done. “I also want to tell you that… I will be leaving soon.” “What?” Pocahontas asked. “I can’t stay, I need return to London, besides I’m not needed here.” “John… don’t say that.” Pocahontas replied. “I just want to wish you the very best, and say that I am very happy that you finally found your way.” Pocahontas hugged John and then he turned to John Smith. “Smith, you’re a very lucking man you know what you have…unlike I did. Just remember one thing: You never know how precious something is until you loose it.” Both Johns shook hands and with that John Rolfe left for Jamestown.

Pocahontas and John Smith made sure they’d reach Jamestown before the ship departed for London. John Rolfe could see his friends as he stood from the ship. Pocahontas and John watched as the ship left and where sorry to see John Rolfe go, he was a good man who recognized his faults. But now they were finally together forever and kissed passionately before they left for home.

John Rolfe never did return to Jamestown. The last of the tobacco was shipped to England and afterwards it was abandoned. And finally, in August, John and Pocahontas were engaged to be married!

The End

Written by: Melissa Gregory, ’01

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See the sequel, Pocahontas IV The Past Returns.