Under the Southern Cross

"Under the Southern Cross" by Elizabeth Robins is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young American woman, the narrator, who embarks on a journey across the Pacific by sea, accompanied by her sickly friend Mrs. Steele. Their voyage takes them to Mexico and beyond, where they encounter various characters, including the charming Peruvian, Baron de Bach, who becomes a significant figure in the narrator's exploration of both the exotic locales and her own feelings. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist, a plain American girl, as she prepares to board the steamship "San Miguel" in San Francisco. She reminisces about her previous life and the new acquaintances she makes during the voyage, particularly focusing on Baron de Bach. Their initial interactions are marked by playful banter, cultural miscommunications, and hints of deeper emotions as they make their way towards Mazatlan. The segment paints a vivid picture of the ship and its passengers, setting the stage for the adventures and romantic entanglements that will unfold as they reach their destination.