01 Preparing for Sea

Part 01 Preparing for Sea

“There is a tide in the affairs of men
Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
On such a full sea are we now afloat;
And we must take the current when it serves,
Or lose our ventures.”

― William Shakespeare , Julius Caesar

The young girl knocked on the door of Ruben's rooms, "Captain Williams, there is a Messenger for you."
Ruben came out of the room, "thank you Judy." He headed down the stairs.
She called out to his back, "he is in the front room Sir."
As Ruben walked into the front room the Marine saluted and then offered his letters.
After signing for them Ruben smiled and told the Marine thank-you before the young man left.
Back in his room Ruben looked over his letters, two of them addressed the similarly:

To Captain Ruben Williams of His Majesty's Navy
No. 9 High Street, Portsmouth; Hampshire

and

To Captain Ruben Williams of His Majesty's Navy
HMS Terpsichore

they both had the foul anchor of the Admiralty but the second one had the further inscription:

These orders are to be opened South of 8' latitude

Orders then, and from the second one's address, a command, he had been in the Admiralty just two days before, the First Lord asked if he would be interested in a command, he had at once said he was willing to go anywhere for King and Country.
Apparently here was the answer to that rash statement...
He could not open the one but he could open the other, so he broke the seal and opened the orders.

To Captain Ruben Williams of His Majesty's Navy
No. 9 High Street, Portsmouth; Hampshire
Sir,
You are hereby required and directed to proceed on board the Terpsichore and to take upon yourself the Command of Captain of
her; willing and requiring all the Officers and Company belonging to said Frigate to behave themselves in their various
Employments with all due Respect and Obedience to you, their Captain. You are likewise required and directed to comply with
the General Printed Instructions, Orders and Directions that have been established below and that you may from time to time
receive from any your superior Officer for His Majesty's Service.
You are to make ready the Terpsichore, now berthed at Portsmouth, for service. The ship is to make sail in the first week of
January at the first favourable wind. To Proceed to sea, and the location that will be given to you. Hereof neither you nor any of
yours may fail as you will answer the contrary at your Peril. And for so doing this shall be your Order.
Given 10th December, 1797
To Ruben Williams, Esq.
Hereby appointed Captain of His Majesty's Ship Terpsichore
By command of the Right Honble. Lords of the Admiralty
Philip H. Marsden,
First Secretary of the Admiralty

Well, that told Ruben what he was going to do today, he had not been sure but now he knew. He would need to find a Steward, cook, and Coxswain, his had all gone on to other ships when his had payed off. But first his ship, he must go aboard her and take command.
The first step was a note to let them know he was coming, he opened his writing desk and took out a slip of paper and wrote the note that would tell them he would be coming aboard at half past three o'clock.

[Seven bells in the Afternoon Watch]

The hired wherry came along side of the HMS Terpsichore, her new Captain mounted the ladder and onto the deck to all the
pipes and ceremony that a ship with very few hands and no Marines could offer.
The Senior most Officer there was an Irish man named O'Mally, he seemed competent but not quite ready for the job of First
Lieutenant. Fortunately Williams had been promised a First Lieutenant that was ready, he only had to make do till he joined the
ship.
"Thank-you Mister O'Mally, call all hands if you please." Williams told him, then handing his orders to the Lieutenant he said,
"and read them this."
Captain Ruben Williams was officially read in on the ships books, he was now legally in command and only an act of God or the
Crown would remove him, Ruben would bet on God acting first.
[Eight Bells in the First Dog Watch]
He had met the few Officers and Young Gentlemen on the ship, two to be exact, and had called for the ships papers, he needed
a clerk, and half a dozen other support staff on this ship, what were the Admiralty thinking, he had a month to staff a ship from

the keel up. She had almost no standing Officers, almost no petty Officers, very few hands, the ships cook was also the gun-
room cook, wardroom steward, and would have to be his cook today too.

He looked at the books, the ship had all but been stripped when she came in, he had vittles for two weeks, and water for ten
days. This was ridiculous, who had done this to a Kings ship and why? She might as well be coming right out of her construction
slips for all the stores she has.
When he got to the open muster book he figured out why. The First Lieutenant, the purser, the boson and a host of lesser people
were all under arrest and awaiting trial. He had heard something about it once he started thinking of it, the Captain gone from the
ship the three of them had stripped her, selling stores like a fish monger. They were awaiting trial for theft on a large scale
indeed, but that didn't help him any.
As he was reading he heard the bells of the day cycling through, he had lit candles when he first started and had to snuff and
trim them at least once in his reading, Ruben really had to find a steward, so he was surprised to hear eight bells sound, he had
heard eight bell already, so what watch was it now? He looked at his pocket watch, midnight. Stepping out of his cabin and
climbing the ladder to the quarter deck he looked at the harbor watch. "Report," he said quietly.
"Eight bells in the Middle Watch Sir, all is well. Should I call the Second Lieutenant?"
"No, thank-you, I am going to turn in now. Carry on."
A touch of the hat and "Aye Sir, good night Sir."
"Good night" Ruben went back to his cabin and blew out the candle, morning would come early and he had a lot to do if he was
going to be ready for sea in less then a month.
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#2
01-16-2010, 10:25 AM
The Marines
It was a chilly December day.

Lieutenant Thomas Carson, standing smartly in his red Marine uniform with a sword on his belt, admired his surroundings while
he patiently waited. Some of the buildings of Portsmouth were still draped in a light coating of snow that had fallen the previous
light. The afternoon sun was melting much of it away, while the all the chimneys in sight were feverishly pitching smoke into the
sky that seemed to hang like dark clouds.
A cool breeze came off the water, and Thomas heard a distant bell from across the bay as a large ferry slowly slid into
Portsmouth.
The vessel looked like a small model, compared to the vessel Thomas was standing beside. The HMS Terpsichore looked
absolutely brilliant in the warming sun.
Thomas stopped admiring the vessel that was about to become his wooden home, and turned his attention back to the task at
hand.
Standing a few feet in front of him were thirty three Marines, with their muskets at shoulder-arms and a large pack on their
shoulders. They stood in 3 ranks, with their Section Leaders to the far right.
In front of the Marine Detachment formation stood Colour Sergeant Patrick Bourne. Thomas had only known him a day, but he
already liked the man. He was older than the Lieutenant, a Marine with many years of experience under his belt. He had a cool
and fatherly way of handling the lads.
The Colour Sergeant had in his hands the Roster Book, and was reading and checking off the name of each Marine coming
aboard the Terpsichore.
"Private Williams," Bourne called out.
"Here Sergeant," someone responded.
"Corporal King," Bourne called out as he scribbled something into the book.
"Here Sergeant," a voice responded from the ranks.
The Colour Sergeant finished his scribbling by writing the date, the 11th of December.
With that, Bourne calmly closed his book and tucked it under his arm. He executed an about-face, the frozen wooden plank of
the dock creaking under his movement.
The Colour Sergeant and his booshy sideburns faced Thomas and said, "Sir, all present."
"Thank you Colour Sergeant," Thomas said. "Have the Section Leaders take command and bring their men aboard. Get the lads
billeted, get their weapons and gear stowed and set the Watch for the rest of the day."
"Ay sir," Bourne sharply responded.
Thomas left the senior enlisted men of his Marine Detachment to their duties as he turned and sharply walked up the shaky
gangplank into the Terpsichore's deck. At that least step, that threshold from dry land to sea, he paused briefly. He surveyed the
deck ahead of him. Then he finally stepped over the threshold and felt the mostly steady deck under his feet.
An officer of the Royal Navy awaited him, Thomas looked at the man's rank insignia as he snapped to attention and said,
"Lieutenant Thomas Carson, commanding officer of the Marines, requesting permission to come aboard with my men."
2nd Lieutenant Patrick O'Mally, who had been watching the Marines ashore and awaiting their appearance on his deck, replied
instantly, "Permission granted Lieutenant. I am Second Lieutenant Patrick O'Mally, welcome aboard the Terpsichore. I have a
couple of my Topmen guarding the gun locker, you may see to their relief. I'm sure they have other duties to attend to."
"Of course," Thomas stated, taking a couple steps forward. "Is the Captain aboard ship?"
"Yes, Captain Williams is in his cabin," O'Mally responded.
Just then, one of the younger lads on deck signaled the bell. Thomas listened to his patiently and noted the ship's time. Four
bells in the afternoon watch.
As soon as the sound of the bell ringing faded, Thomas said, "Could I beg you to introduce me good chap?"
"Certainly," O'Mally said.
The pair turned and walked across the deck, past a sailor who was breaking some ice off a coiled rope. The man touched his
brow with his fingers as they passed him.

Soon there was a knocking on the Captain's door.
Lieutenant O'Mally stepped in and announced, "Captain, the Marines have arrived sir. I have their commanding officer here."
As send as O'Mally gets a "send him in", Lieutenant Thomas Carson squeezes past O'Mally in the narrow confines and steps
into the room. The Lieutenant was smartly dressed in his red jacket uniform, with black facings. A sword hung at his left hip. The
twenty two-year-old Lieutenant had already removed his hat and tucked it under his left arm.
"Lieutenant Thomas Carson, reporting for duty sir," Thomas stated at the position of Attention.
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#3
01-16-2010, 11:21 AM
Captain Williams was preparing to dine, his coat unbuttoned and he was sipping a glass of Holland's gin while he waited for his
dinner to be ready. He idly read over some of the ships papers on his desk. He had been trying to get the books in order so he
knew what they needed.
At a knock on the door Williams said, "Come in."
Lieutenant O'Mally stepped in and announced, "Captain, the Marines have arrived sir. I have their commanding officer here."
As send as O'Mally gets a "send him in", Lieutenant Thomas Carson squeezes past O'Mally in the narrow confines and steps
into the room. The Lieutenant was smartly dressed in his red jacket uniform, with black facings. A sword hung at his left hip. The
twenty two-year-old Lieutenant had already removed his hat and tucked it under his left arm.
"Lieutenant Thomas Carson, reporting for duty sir," Thomas stated at the position of Attention.
"Well Lieutenant," Williams said as he stepped over and held out his hand, "I am glad to meet you and welcome aboard." He
shook Carson's hand firmly and smiled, "would you care for some gin, I have both Hollands and Portsmouth."
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#4
01-16-2010, 12:00 PM
"Well Lieutenant," Williams said as he stepped over and held out his hand, "I am glad to meet you and welcome aboard." He
shook Carson's hand firmly and smiled, "would you care for some gin, I have both Hollands and Portsmouth."
Thomas gave Captain Williams' hand a firm shake.
Thomas smiled, and it was a surprisingly friendly and infectious smile.
"Certainly sir...uhh Hollands sir," Thomas replied as he considered the offer.
Crossing his hands around behind his back, Thomas said, "I'm sure the Captain is excited at the prospect of getting underway. I
just came from His Majesty's Ship, the Hind. Captain Alexander Cochrane's frigate. Very similar to this one actually. However we
never strayed very far from Scotland's coast I'm afraid. I'm hoping the Terpsichore will venture...a bit farther."
The Lieutenant smiled.
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#5
01-16-2010, 12:20 PM
As he was pouring out a glass of gin for the Marine, Williams smiled, "yes..." he said dryly, "I think we maybe going a bit further
foreign then Scotland."
Handing the mug to Carson he said, "I am in a hurry it's true, but we have quite a ways to go before we are ready for sea." His
hand went to the papers on the desk, "we don't have provisions in for even a trip to Scotland I fear, so I will need your reports on
anything you might be in need of for far foreign."
He looked at his new Marine Officer for a moment then admitted, "I don't know where we are going but I have been authorized
and commanded to stock the ship with nine months provisions, both temperate and arctic."
Then he smiled, "you might have wished to report aboard later, we have plenty of hard work ahead, your Jollies will be a god
sent for hoisting and toting supplies aboard. We don't have near as many men as we need, and you will be as active as any old
sailorman since we don't have enough Officers either."
With the biggest grin yet he put his hand in the air, index finger pointing to the deck beam above him, "for there is not a moment
to be lost." Then lowering his hand again and still grinning he asked, "that reminds me, I am about to dine, have you eaten? It's
just ship's fare, I don't yet have a cook or cabin stores but your more then welcome to join me."
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#6
01-16-2010, 01:35 PM
Thomas took his glass and sipped the gin once while he listened to the Captain's report on the state of things. Some of it he
knew, that the Terpsichore wasn't due to actually depart for sometime. However he wasn't aware of the state of provisions, or the
officers and crew.
Before he could respond to that, the Captain presented his offer to dine.
"I have not yet dined," Thomas replied. "I would be honored to join you Captain."
Thomas waited for the Captain to sit, then he sat down himself.
He said, "Well I brought 34 good men with me, they should be of some help. As for our needs, we fortunately brought most of the
small arms we need with us, every man came aboard with a musket and full kit. Also I was informed earlier that a carriage
should be arriving sometime this evening to deliver additional supplies. Hand grenades, cutlasses, boarding axes, and a fair
number of pistols and muskets. My men will see to their storing aboard ship sir."
Thomas added with a smile as he ran a finger along the edge of his glass, "If you don't mind my asking Captain, what did you do
before they gave you the Terpsichore?"
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#7
01-16-2010, 03:05 PM
Captain Williams sat down as a crewman (he was trying out for Captain's Steward) brought in the food and some wine.
He said, "Well I brought 34 good men with me, they should be of some help. As for our needs, we fortunately brought most of the
small arms we need with us, every man came aboard with a musket and full kit. Also I was informed earlier that a carriage
should be arriving sometime this evening to deliver additional supplies. Hand grenades, cutlasses, boarding axes, and a fair
number of pistols and muskets. My men will see to their storing aboard ship sir."
"Good, that is one more thing we will want I am sure." Ruben said, he set about cutting the meat and serving it to his guest and
himself, the root vegetables, potatoes, onions and carrots that went with it were stewed soft in the English way but where not
well seasoned. He tasted it and put some of the salt on them before moving it where Carson could easily get at it.

Thomas added with a smile as he ran a finger along the edge of his glass, "If you don't mind my asking Captain, what did you do
before they gave you the Terpsichore?"
"Oh, I kept busy in the Med, I had the Dragonfly, but of course she was only a sloop so I could not keep her when I was made
post." He chewed a small cut of the wooden meat with long practice shifting it to the side in order to answer. "We were a little
pop-gun brig and did quite a bit of commerce destroying but nothing to glorious till the end I'm afraid."
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#8
01-16-2010, 04:20 PM
"Oh, I kept busy in the Med, I had the Dragonfly, but of course she was only a sloop so I could not keep her when I was made
post." He chewed a small cut of the wooden meat with long practice shifting it to the side in order to answer. "We were a little
pop-gun brig and did quite a bit of commerce destroying but nothing to glorious till the end I'm afraid."
Thomas picked up a fork and was eating a soft carrot as the Captain spoke. Thomas nodded a few times, reached for the salt
and gave his plate a few dashes, though he seemed to avoid salting his meat at all.
"I see," Thomas replied. "I would like to travel around Gibraltor's rock face. I hear those waters are quite beautiful, warm and
calm, especially this time of year. I believe Captain that England has a long gloomy winter ahead. So says my father just two
days past. He has a knack for such things. His bones ache whenever a bad winter approaches. He spent enough time at sea
himself to sense the coming weather."
Thomas smiled and asked, "So commerce raiding, tell me sir, was there any good prize money to be had on the Dragonfly's
voyages? Did you confiscate any gems from Algeria, or perhaps some Greek wine from the Ottomans?"
As Thomas waited for a response, he chewed on a piece of unseasoned meat.
The Lieutenant was referring to the standard practice of Royal Navy Officers and crew getting a share of prize money for any
ships or cargoes seized in the line of duty.
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#9
01-16-2010, 05:03 PM
"We never seized a Greek wine shipment, would never had made it back to port if we had, but each of the foremast hands rated
able got something in the neighborhood of 400£ from the prize court." Ruben said with a smile. "But then we were given cruise
after cruise."
"Can I help you to a little more of the potatoes?" Ruben offered the bowl.
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#10
01-16-2010, 05:28 PM
"Yes thank you," Thomas said, taking the bowl with both hands. He forked a few more pieces onto his plate, but not many.
"So what of your family Captain?" Thomas asked as he set the bowl back onto the table between them and reached for the salt.
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#11
01-16-2010, 06:22 PM
Ruben smiled again. "I am Naval from clew to earing, steeped in brine to the bone. My father was a passed over Lieutenant, and
I have been home to see my mother and sisters three times since I was fourteen."
He paused with his fork of carrot in the air, he decided to turn the tables, "and how about yourself, I know you were on the Hind
and haven't been further out then Scotland. What brought you to the Marines?"
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#12
01-16-2010, 06:42 PM
He paused with his fork of carrot in the air, he decided to turn the tables, "and how about yourself, I know you were on the Hind
and haven't been further out then Scotland. What brought you to the Marines?"
As the question was broached, Thomas politely cleaned his lips with a simple cloth handkerchief before answering.
"I come from a long line of Army officers," Thomas stated. "My grandfather served as a Leftenant in India. My father apparently
saw opportunity in the Marines. He was a Marine Lieutenant when the Royal Navy attacked the Brittany island of Bellisle back in
1761. He participated in the scaling of the cliffs there and earned himself a place in the history books. He retired a Captain years
ago after losing a leg to infection in the course of duty."
"His sons, it would seem, answered the call," Thomas added. "My brother James is a Leutenant in the Royal Navy. I believe he
is serving in the Americas, but his dispatches are few and far between. My father helped me secure a commission in the
Marines."
Thomas paused before adding, "I enjoy the work, I find this service represents some of the best of two services. A life at sea,
and a life with a musket in hand."
"If you would not be offended Captain, I'd like to propose a toast," Thomas said, raising his glass. "To the King, and his Marines."
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#13
01-16-2010, 07:11 PM
"The King, God bless him, and to his honorable Marines." Ruben raised his glass to the toast. He drank off the toast then refilled
his glass.
"My turn then," he said holding up his now refilled glass, "To the Terpsichore, and the adventure that awaits us."
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#14
01-16-2010, 07:25 PM
Thomas drank to the Marines, then raised his glass again and repeated, "To the Terpsichore and the men who sail her, here
here."

Taking another long drink, Thomas asked, "Speaking of the men, what do you think you'll get? Salty sea-dogs or young
homesick English boys?"
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#15
01-16-2010, 07:59 PM
"Probably poachers, petty thieves, and sea lawyers." Ruben said sagely, "the press gangs bring in all kinds."
The seaman that was acting as Steward came in and cleared the table bringing out a pudding, in this case it was just a crumb
cake and port.
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#16
01-16-2010, 10:10 PM
Thomas nodded at the Stewart as the pudding was brought in. He waited until the man was leaving again with the dinner plates
before speaking.
"I have heard that it's tough pickings these days, hard to get a sailor to willingly sign up for service aboard the King's Navy,"
Thomas stated. "They can ply their trade on a fat merchantman and earn much more. My new brother-in-law told me just a week
ago, that an experienced ship's carpenter was worth his weight in shillings in Dover. I imagine it's not much different here in
Portsmouth."
"I have it more fortunate I suppose," Thomas added as he picked up his desert fork and began to slice off a piece of the crumb
cake. "If we're short of Marines, they turn to the army and transfer over a few privates from the Regiments of Foot, often
volunteers mind you. The Marine Sergeants speak of prize money and it's done in an hour's time. The lads don't know what they
are in for until it's too late."
Thomas calmly plopped the piece of cake into his mouth and reached for his port.
"My compliments to your man," Thomas added, nodding at the Steward. "Aboard the Hind, the Steward over-salted everything.
Meat, carrots, It didn't matter what it was. I couldn't tell if I was eating food or the English Channel, nasty stuff."
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#17
01-16-2010, 10:43 PM
Ruben nodded, "when your eating salt beef and salt pork, the last thing it needs is salting."
He waved at the door the Steward had walked out of, "I think I may have to keep him."
Captain Williams heard the bell ring three double strokes, six bells. He finished his port and leaned back. "Can I get you another
slice of cake?"
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#18

01-16-2010, 11:15 PM
The rhythmic sound of the horses hooves, had lulled Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford into taking a slight nap. He was on his way to
the docks where his new post was at. The missive about his new assignment had come and fortunately it didn't take too long to
pack. His gear packed in the boot of the coach, and held gently in his arms; carefully wrapped was one of his more precious
belongings, his violin.
When the coach stopped, Aubrey was awake immediately hearing the coachman say."We're here, Sir." and the door being
opened.
Aubrey stepped down from the coach looking about, then getting the satchel that held his precious books from the coachman. A
dock worker was asked to get his trunk which held his other belongings and taken towards the HMS Terpischore. At the gentle
chiming of his watch, Aubrey pulled it out and looked at the time.It was 15:25 The air was brisk and smelled of the sea, Aubrey
took a deep breath of it, and smiled. With a confident step, he wound his way towards the berth where the HMS Terpischore
gently moved with the roll of the waves. At the gangplank he looked to where a man was standing watch on deck. He walked up
the gangplank to the deck and nodded towards 2nd Lieutenant O'Mally.
"Permission to come onboard." He said to O'Malley. "I am Lieutenant Rutherford, I do believe Captain Williams is expecting me. I
am his new executive officer."
O'Malley saluted and Aubrey returned the salute crisply and cleanly. O'Malley noticed the satchel and the violin the XO carried.
"I could stow that for you, Lieutenant Rutherford, if you'd like." O'Malley stated.
"You can stow my satchel, but I will take this with me." Aubrey answered, handing the satchel to O'Malley but keeping hold of the
violin case.
"Follow me and I'll let the Captain know you are here." O'Malley said leading the way.
Aubrey followed him, and once at the door he could hear the bell ring seven times.
O'Malley knocked on the door and announced Aubrey's arrival."Captain, the executive officer, Lieutenant Rutherford is here."
Aubrey holding the violin to where it wouldn't get knocked about, waited until the Captain told him to enter. His hat was off, he
made certain that his braid was in proper form and not a hair was out of place. Once O'Malley stepped in and made his
announcement, Aubrey stepped in, his eyes taking in the fact he was interrupting the Captain and another man in the middle of
coffee being served.
"Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford reporting for duty, Sir." He said, snapping to attention, his hat tucked under his left arm and his
left hand holding onto the violin case.
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#19
01-17-2010, 08:11 AM
With the cake done there was coffee, a good strong brew, the Steward had been a little slow on how to serve it but had not
spilled or badly messed up. It looked like Ruben had a new Steward. Ruben was about to suggest that they move to the great
cabin when he heard O'Malley at the door.
O'Malley knocked on the door and announced Aubrey's arrival."Captain, the executive officer, Lieutenant Rutherford is here."
Captain Williams stood up, "send him in, send him in."
Aubrey holding the violin to where it wouldn't get knocked about, waited until the Captain told him to enter. His hat was off, he
made certain that his braid was in proper form and not a hair was out of place. Once O'Malley stepped in and made his
announcement, Aubrey stepped in, his eyes taking in the fact he was interrupting the Captain and another man in the middle of
coffee being served.
"Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford reporting for duty, Sir." He said, snapping to attention, his hat tucked under his left arm and his
left hand holding onto the violin case.

Ruben smiled again, "welcome aboard Lieutenant, this is Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson, he is to watch over our Marines, I
believe you two will be mess mates."
He gestured to the door of the dinning cabin, "shall we take coffee in the Great Cabin, there is more room and a better view of
the sea. You will join us for coffee Mister Rutherford won't you?"
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#20
01-17-2010, 10:45 AM
Ruben smiled again, "welcome aboard Lieutenant, this is Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson, he is to watch over our Marines, I
believe you two will be mess mates."
He gave a brief bow towards Lieutenant Carson. "A pleasure, Lieutenant Carson."
He gestured to the door of the dinning cabin, "Shall we take coffee in the Great Cabin, there is more room and a better view of
the sea. You will join us for coffee Mister Rutherford won't you?"
"Indeed I shall Captain, thank you for the invitation." Aubrey accepted with a smile and a nod.
The cake and coffee smelled fantastic, and he was all the more willing to get to know whom he was going to be sailing with.
"I must say, it smells simply marvelous." Aubrey commented, as he followed the others into the Great Cabin.
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#21
01-17-2010, 10:55 AM
Ruben hailed his Steward to bring another coffee cup and move the service to the great cabin. Then lead the two new Officers
in, offering them seats on the lockers near the stern window.
"I am not sure what has been told to either of you in your orders, if it's the usual then you were told to report aboard and that is
it." Ruben sat down in a straight back chair on the visitor side of the table and clearing a small space in the papers set down his
coffee cup.
"We are going far foreign, to indent on supplies for both tropic and arctic." He looked at one then the other, "if I were a gambling
man I would guess our destination is in the Pacific."
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#22
01-17-2010, 08:50 PM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson stood and returned the newly arrived Lieutenant's gentle bow. There was a sharp distinction between
them in dress. Thomas wore a red uniform very similar to that worn by the Army, though the facings were black. The sword
hanging from Thomas's side was also of Army design.
"A pleasure Lieutenant," Thomas said with a friendly smile. "Your timing is perfect, it's a soft chilly English evening, and I find
coffee all the remedy."
As they moved into the Great Cabin, Thomas glanced around and admired it. It was very similar to the Great Cabin aboard the
Hind. At each time he mentally reminded himself that this would be his new home for the foreseeable future.
Thomas waited until the Captain sat down, then took a seat as well.

When Captain Williams asked about their orders, Thomas nodded in agreement. He had been told very little, just where to find
the newly assembled Marine detachment, their equipment, and orders to get them aboard ship.
"We are going far foreign, to indent on supplies for both tropic and arctic." He looked at one then the other, "if I were a gambling
man I would guess our destination is in the Pacific."
Thomas was raising his steaming cup of coffee to his lips when the Captain made his prediction. The cup paused in mid-air as
Thomas's eyebrows arched.
"The Pacific you say?" Thomas stated, obviously surprised and curious. "Tell me sir, to what evidence do you attribute your
theory?"
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Lupe
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#23
01-17-2010, 09:28 PM
"The Pacific you say?" Thomas stated, obviously surprised and curious. "Tell me sir, to what evidence do you attribute your
theory?"
"We are sailing under Admiralty orders sir, nine months provisions, tropical and Arctic weather provisions." Captain Williams
ticked off on his fingers then raising the other hand to count off his reasoning.
"Admiralty Orders, we are not sailing out to join a squadron or fleet, that includes the Cape" he tucked down his pinky. "Tropical
weather gear, we are not sailing to the Baltic," his ring finger joined the pinky. "Arctic weather gear, we are not going to the Med,"
the middle finger folded.
He smiled and held up the fore finger and thumb, "that leaves India or the Pacific, we are not ordered to carry a party of solders,
your Marines are part of the company of this ship and don't count, that they would send to Bombay if we were going that way."
He folded down his index finger, "so that leaves the Pacific," he held out his now closed hand with the thumb sticking up.
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Linette Geraud
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#24
01-17-2010, 09:47 PM
Aubrey followed suit, waiting for the Captain to be seated then finding a safe place for his violin, placed it there, then laid his hat
on top. Once that was settled, he accepted the steaming cup of coffee as well as a piece of cake,the plate perfectly balanced on
his lap.
Taking a sip of his coffee but not making any other comments, Aubrey thought back on the long journey he had finished a few
months back. A chance to go to the other part of the world he hadn't yet gone to did intrigue him.
"I am looking forward to finding out, Captain." Aubrey said with a slight smile.
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Jon Allen
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#25
01-17-2010, 11:29 PM
Thomas considered the Captain's remarks carefully as he sipped his coffee.
"I find your logic compelling sir," Thomas said with a slow nod.

"The Pacific then," The Marine added, settling into his chair. "I must admit I have mixed feelings about it. With all the trouble that
French monster Bonaparte is causing across Europe. Despite the treaties that split up Venice, I don't foresee any peace here at
home, but I suppose duty calls."
The Marine Lieutenant watched Aubrey settle his violin in place before saying, "I take it you play Lieutenant? I'm afraid my own
education didn't lend it well to any instrument but a firearm."
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Ragsdale
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#26
01-18-2010, 02:34 PM
December 15, 1797
Sage Downs, Muskerry
Andrew still couldn't believe the news. It had been three days since he had recieved the letter notifiying him of his promotion to
Lieutenant and assignment to the HMS Terpsichore. The young lieutenant had just turned nineteen this past October and was
looking forward to spending the holidays with his family in Sage Downs. No more. He had to set out soon if he was to arrive in
Portsmouth in time. His mother wouldn't like it; she hadn't seen her youngest son in nearly six years, but he felt his father would
understand. He would leave in the morning.
At supper that evening, there was a mixture of merriment and sadness. Only God knew when the family would be united again.
The meal was excellent however and Andrew greedily downed seconds. After the meal was over, his father asked to speak with
him in the study. The two quietly excused themselves from the other company and headed for their private conversation.
"Are you ready to leave?" the Baron Muskerry asked.
"I believe so. I would have liked to spend Christmas with you and mother, but duty calls."
"Yes it does. We all have our duty and we must all strive to fulfill it. I have something for you."
The older man turned around, picked up a long rectangular box from the desk behind him, and headed the box to Andrew. The
wooden box had no markings on it except for a small silver placard that read Wilkinson. Andrew opened the box to find a
beautiful naval officer's sword. The younger Foxall didn't know what to say.
"I ordered it in anticipation of your promotion. Thankfully, it arrived before your departure. It is my gift to you, Lt. Foxall."
"Thank you, father. It is simply marvelous. I will wear it with pride and hopefully use it to bring honor to you and the Foxall name."
"I'm sure you will. For now, go and spent time with your mother while you can."
The next morning, Andrew awoke early. It was a habit of his. Even on mornings after a night of carousing and drinking, he was
always early to rise. He packed what few belongings he would take on board with him, eat breakfast and ordered the carriage
ready to take him into Cork city. As he was heading towards the carriage, his mother called out to him.
"Andrew, Andrew. You can't leave just yet. You haven't received my gift."
After receiving the sword from his father the previous night, he hadn't expected to receive anything else. But his mother
produced another box tied with a scarlet ribbon. Andrew removed the ribbon, and opened the box. Pushing aside the tissue
paper, his hand brushed against dark blue wool.
"Is this what I think it is?"
His mother smile as she replied, "I was hoping the tailors would complete it in time. I can't have my son report to his new posting
improperly dressed."
"Oh, thank you mother. Thank you and God bless. I will write and hopefully fate will return me home again soon."
"Let's hope its not another six years."
Andrew kissed his mother on the cheek and shook his father's hand. Holding the sword in his left hand and his new uniform
tucked under his right arm, the newly-minted lieutenant climbed aboard the carriage to Cork city. From Cork city, he had booked
passage on a sloop to Portsmouth. With any luck he should arrive at the Terpsichore in four days, five at the latest.

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Linette Geraud
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#27
01-18-2010, 06:21 PM
The Marine Lieutenant watched Aubrey settle his violin in place before saying, "I take it you play Lieutenant? I'm afraid my own
education didn't lend it well to any instrument but a firearm."
Aubrey nodded, "Knowing how to use a firearm is rather useful as well. Yes, I do play, it brings much solace to the soul." He said
with a smile. "I do play the harpsichord as well as the clavichord, and got to try a newly developed instrument called a piano; but
the violin is much easier to carry than either of those instruments." Aubrey chuckled for a moment at his own joke.
He contiunued,"I am looking forward to the maiden voyage of our crew into what ever situation it brings and it is very nice to be
back on a Royal Naval ship as well, especially one like the Terpischore. I have a fondness for this type of ship as my father owns
a ship, named Lillian, after my mother. When I found out that I was to be assigned to this ship, I felt blessed, due to Terpsichore
in Greek Mythology was the muse for musicians." Aubrey stated with great feeling."However, I am first and foremost a man of
the sea." With out a thought he lifted his coffee in an unconcious salute to the sea.
"The mistress that men of the sea can not get away from unless they die, even then the man buried at sea, is forever cradled in
her loving embrace."
Last edited by Linette Geraud; 01-18-2010, 07:23 PM.
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Jon Allen
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#28
01-18-2010, 07:07 PM
Thomas chuckled lightly and grinned as he declared, "The gentleman is a poet as well as a musician."
Thomas sipped his coffee again, with a distant and thoughtful expression on his face.
Finally the source of his thoughts came to light, "The muse for musicians....is that indeed what Terpsichore means?"
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Linette Geraud
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#29
01-18-2010, 07:37 PM
Aubrey nodded, "Not only music but the muse of dance as well. In the Greek mythology she is depicted holding a lyre
accompanying her people while they are dancing, she is also stated as being the mother of the sirens of the sea.Perhaps the
naming of this ship the Terpsichore is in someway, asking her blessing as this fine ship dances upon the waves." Aubrey replied.
He looked over towards where there was a view of the sea, its waters enticing, calling to him and anyone-else who chose to
listen. With great effort he brought his attention back to the conversation at hand.
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Lupe
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#30

01-18-2010, 08:20 PM
Captain Williams cleared his throat, "not just in myth, our figure head is holding a lyre too... at least I think it's a lyre she is
holding."
Midshipman Stewart knocked then entered the cabin, "Sir, with Lieutenant O'Mally's compliments, but there is a couple of boats
of men coming along side. I think it's hands to join the ship."
Ruben stood up, "very well, I will come." As he started towards the door he called over his shoulder, "Come Mister Rutherford,
Mister Carson. Idleness is the devil's workshop."
Once on deck he saw a Lieutenant come up the side with a big sheaf of papers. He touched his hat to the Quarter Deck then
said, "Draft for the Terpsichore, the Undaunted has payed off and this lot has been passed to you."
Ruben took the papers and did a fast shuffle through them, "Thirty-five?"
"Yes Sir, thirty-five able seamen by orders of the port Admiral." the Lieutenant said.
"Very well, bring them aboard," then raising his voice a little since he knew his Executive Officer was near by, "Mister Rutherford,
read them in."
He looked over at his new Marine Commander, "Lieutenant Carson, I want extra guards, these men have not set foot on dry land
for over three years, I don't want to loose a single one of them."
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Jon Allen
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#31
01-18-2010, 10:40 PM
Thomas listened to the explanation with a slow nod. When his thoughts were interrupted by a visitor, he quickly realized that their
quiet off-duty time was over.
Setting his coffee on the table, Thomas followed the Captain and Lieutenant out of the Great Cabin onto the deck. He put his cap
back on as he stepped into the slightly chilly breeze coming off the water.
There, he saw the boats coming up alongside. Thomas walked over to the rail and watched as the first boat began to tie up.
The Captain turned and spoke.
"Lieutenant Carson, I want extra guards, these men have not set foot on dry land for over three years, I don't want to loose a
single one of them."
"Ay sir," Thomas replied.
Thomas turned and surveyed the deck for the most senior enlisted Marine on the deck. Thomas walked up to him. The Corporal,
who was holding his musket and pacing the deck, immediately snapped to attention.
"Corporal King," Thomas spoke. "How many Marines on sentry duty?"
"Six sir," King responded. "The rest are with Colour Sergeant Bourne below."
Carson nodded, "Go below Corporal, find your Section Officer and tell him I want the rest of his Section on-duty immediately,
sentry positions on-deck and at all gang-planks. Tell him to see me when that's finished, go on lad."
King saluted and scurried off down some stairs below to where the Marines were quartered.
The Marine Lieutenant stood by, watched and waited as five more Marines appeared on deck, in uniform and with their muskets
in both hands. The Marines were joined by a Sergeant, who quickly handed out assignments and dispatched the new men
across the ship.
Thomas had three Section Officers, Sergeants Richard Mollins, John Crocker and Roger McKnight. All were seasoned and
veteran Marines. Thomas had had little time to get to know him, and ultimately being friendly with them wasn't his place.
Thomas's primary link to the men was through Colour Sergeant Bourne, his senior enlisted man and a strong Marine that
inspired confidence in the men. It was typically Bourne's responsibility to translate Carson's orders into actionable deeds for his
men to achieve. Thank the lord for men like that...

Sergeant Mollins walked over to the Lieutenant and saluted, "Sir, First Section reporting to all duty stations now."
Lieutenant Carson returned the salute, "Thank you Sergeant, what were you doing below?"
"Colour Sergeant Bourne had my Section working to prepare the gun lockers for our equipment. The other Sections were getting
situated in their new living arrangements sir."
Carson nodded, "You'll be able to return to that shortly Sergeant. We just have a new group of sailors coming aboard, due
diligence was necessary."
"Of course sir," Sergeant Mollins answered.
Carson asked, "Mollins...you are Irish yes? I detect a bit of an accent, but I can't be sure."
"I was born Yankee sir," Mollins replied. "My family were Tories and returned to the old country after the war in America ended."
Carson slowly nodded, that explanation made more sense.
"Go see to your men Mollins, I'll alert you when you can resume normal guard rotation."
Mollins saluted and then marched away. Thomas quickly forgot the man as he returned to a place not far from the Captain and
watched the new arrivals come aboard."
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Linette Geraud
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#32
01-19-2010, 08:04 PM
"Very well, bring them aboard," then raising his voice a little since he knew his Executive Officer was near by, "Mister Rutherford,
read them in."
Aubrey nodded, reading the Articles of War clear and concise to where every man that was on the deck could hear and not have
any excuses. It wasn't lost on him that the men weren't too happy, once he got to the finish he brought out the paper to where
they could make their mark or sign it.
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Lupe
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#33
01-20-2010, 06:45 AM
Once that part of it was done and before the men could be quartered much less issued slops and hamocks Captain Ruben
Williams stepped up the ladder to the Quarterdeck and stood at the rail so he could be easily seen and heard.
"Men..." he waited for it, each eye turned to him, each man stopped talking to his friend and looked waiting. "I know you were all
expecting to be kicking up Bob's-a-Dying tonight, knocking back mugs of rum and tumbling a wench. But it's a hard service, and
there are times when it isn't fair. This is one of them. We will have supper soon, and I will make sure it's a good one for you, and
there is to be an extra ration of rum for these men. No wenches tonight, I'm sorry for it, but I promise you, as soon as the barque
is ready for sea, as soon as we have stuffed her to the hatches and have nothing to do but wait out the winter wind, you won't be
waiting alone, it will be wives and sweethearts. So, get your slops and hammocks, eat, drink and rest, tomorrow the work begins
again."
With that he turned and walked back to the taffrail looking out across the water on the Starboard Quarter. Thirty-five more hands,
that was good, not enough but good, they were still short twenty-odd hands and needed more petty Officers and the Warrents
were not up to scratch either. He would have to look over the paper in his hand and see if any are or could be given a Petty
Officers position.
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#34
01-20-2010, 10:22 AM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson watched as the new sailors were read the Articles, made their mark, and addressed by the Captain.
Soon they were being directed below-decks to the living spaces that would be their new homes. They would get a little time to
relax before their real work would begin
Thomas kept such thoughts to himself, but he really wasn't a fan of the navy's recruitment style. Press gangs and the like could
bring in all kinds of port rif-raf. On the other hand he was keenly aware that the Royal Navy was massive, competition was stiff
and there just wasn't any other way to staff so many Frigates and Ships of the Line that left England's harbors for destinations all
over His Majesty's Empire. Thomas wasn't sure how many of these 35 sailors were press-ganged into service and how many
volunteered. It was probably a mix of both.
Thomas stepped across the deck, just forward of the Quarterdeck, where Aubrey was supervising as the new men made their
mark.
"Good lads!" he shouted to the sailors who were still waiting with a proud and blustery voice. "This is a fine ship and she carries
a fine Captain!"
He stood there a moment, hands behind his back, standing proudly in his Marine uniform.
Thomas stood there, watching and waiting. He was also studying the men, their faces. He was looking for any toxic expressions
of anger, betrayal, frustration, or any other negative tell-tail sign that any of these men might cause trouble.
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Lupe
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#35
01-21-2010, 08:51 PM
The sentury at the cabin door watch the last grains of sand fall out of the top bulb of the hour glass and to the bottom bulb, he
then turned the glass over in it's hanging bracket and called out to the quartermaster, "eight bells."
The Quartermaster walked forward on the gangway to the belfry where he grabbed the line worked and secured to the clapper
and rang the bell, ding-ding, ding-ding, ding-ding, ding-ding
the four double chimes rang out across the ship to be repeated within moments by two other ships anchored in the harbor.
The sound brought Williams back to the ship, "Warp the ship out into the fairway before supper and grog Mister O'Mally." He
announced in a raised voice, never turning around or looking behind him to the officers on the Quarter Deck.
He knew that whom ever was taking the deck would be told the new orders, now was the time to see how his Officers and men
would act/react.
O'Mally stammered, "w-warp o-out into the f-fairway, Aye Sir." Then turned to the boatswain, "call all hands if you please." The
pipes twittered tweet-tweeet bringing the hands that had not already came on deck for the changing of the watch up on deck for
the maneuvers.
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Jon Allen
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#36
01-22-2010, 01:11 PM
As the pipes began to sound, Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson was more than little curious as to what was going on. Hiding
his confusion, he walked to the nearest ladder onto the deck just above the part of the ship were the Marines were quarters
"Come on lads!" He yelled down. "All Marines on-deck!"

Thomas heard the familiar voice of Colour Sergeant Bourne repeat, "Jump to it lads!"
As the Marines appeared, Thomas was already contemplating the arrangement. His First Section was already on-deck, manning
all pertinent stations on the Quarterdeck and at the gang-planks.
As the Sergeants appeared, Thomas barked, "Second Second by Larboard Rail, Third Second by Starboard Rail! Hussle lads!
Sergeants, get your men into file by each rail."
The red uniformed Marines quickly appeared in a mad dash that spread across the deck. They quickly found their Sergeants and
hopped into line on each side of the ship, 11 men on each rails stretching from the edge of the quarterdeck forward. The rest of
the Marines from First Section remained at their various posts.
Colour Sergeant Bourne appeared at Lieutenant Carson's side and saluted.
"Colour Sergeant, the Captain is calling all men to deck, bring the men to shoulder arms and position yourself by the Main-Mast.
I'll be on the Quarterdeck."
"Yes sir," The man with thick sideburns replied, before shouting, "Sections, Shoulder...Arms!"
Across the deck, the Sergeants were repeating the command, "Shoulder..Arms!"
The Marines swiftly brought their muskets up, with the barrels resting against their shoulder, with the butt-plate resting on one
hand, while the other held the weapon in place by reaching across the front.
Seeing the duty done, Thomas stepped onto the Quarterdeck as he adjusted his hat into proper position. The Marine Lieutenant
swiftly saluted the Captain, then took his place off to the right of the Naval Officers on-deck.
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Linette Geraud
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#37
01-23-2010, 09:36 AM
The sentry at the cabin door watch the last grains of sand fall out of the top bulb of the hour glass and to the bottom bulb, he
then turned the glass over in it's hanging bracket and called out to the quartermaster, "eight bells."
The Quartermaster walked forward on the gangway to the belfry where he grabbed the line worked and secured to the clapper
and rang the bell, ding-ding, ding-ding, ding-ding, ding-ding
the four double chimes rang out across the ship to be repeated within moments by two other ships anchored in the harbor.
The sound brought Williams back to the ship, "Warp the ship out into the fairway before supper and grog Mister O'Mally." He
announced in a raised voice, never turning around or looking behind him to the officers on the Quarter Deck.
He knew that whom ever was taking the deck would be told the new orders, now was the time to see how his Officers and men
would act/react.
O'Mally stammered, "w-warp o-out into the f-fairway, Aye Sir." Then turned to the boatswain, "call all hands if you please." The
pipes twittered tweet-tweeet bringing the hands that had not already came on deck for the changing of the watch up on deck for
the maneuvers.

Williams called out, not loudly but cutting across the noise. "Aubrey, over here if you please." The tone was not commanding, in
fact it could be taken as conversational or even friendly.
The men were hoisting out the Longboat and preparing the stream anchor and a cable, the deck was alive as if someone had
kicked an ant bed, but not in total confusion. The Carpenter's mates were swifting the bars on the capstan, even as the Longboat
splashed down men dropped into her, thump, thump, thump, this was a maneuver that had been done by them many times over.

Aubrey walked over and saluted the Captain, he had been contemplating on what had transpired. He was surprised at the
Captain's orders concerning the women of the port but, he agreed with it too. With the Terpsichore being almost stripped of
everything, and not being ready to go on its voyage yet, it made sense. He felt that the Captain was someone who thought
ahead, forward thinking and Aubrey liked it. Williams could be considered an innovative thinker, doing things that weren't stuck
inside a box. For Aubrey who liked to think outside of the box, and at times felt stifled, almost felt like perhaps he would have
some freedom, more than what he has had.
"Yes, Captain Williams." was all he stated as he neared Williams.

Williams leaned on the rail, his back still to the deck, he gestured to the spot by him, "if you lean back here you can watch the
whole deck, and see how everyone performs their task."
He continued to stare out into the bay, listening to the orders given, to the movement of the men and equipment. "Kickers and
starters, watch who uses them, I want you to have a little word with those ones. We don't want to break these men down, we
want them to serve out of loyalty, not compulsion. On a dirty night in a gale or in the heat of battle, the life you save might be
your own." He was referring to the practice of tossing a hated Officer overboard when no one was looking or in the confusion of
battle instead of helping him below for treatment tossing him over the side with the dead.
The Longboat had taken the stream anchor and a cable out of the hawse hole then started away from the ship to set the first
warps. The Blue cutter was now in the water and headed towards the bow of the ship for the second best bower. Men had ran
across the brows and had pulled them off the ship and on to the dock, then a man to each of the bollards one fore one aft ready
to let the ship loose from it's key.
Aubrey nodded and took his place next to Williams watching the crew ,then he asked, "What are your plans for the maiden
voyage of this crew, Captain?" He watched as the men went about their duties. He duly took note of those who needed to be
talked to. "Captain, not that you really need my approval for your decision as to the men, but I do find it sound and logical. It is
unusual but, it will make certain to keep them from jumping ship after their activities and the ship to be ready to sail."

"Look at them, they are men, not animals, most Officers treat their crew as little more then beasts, I will not have it." Williams
voice was strong and passionate. His attitude was very much different from his contemporaries, but not completely unknown.
"Oh, I plan to sail us down the channel, with gun smoke drifting in front of us the whole way, weather permitting, and once we are
well out into the Atlantic we will find out what the Admiralty have in mind for us." Williams back was still toward the deck as the
ship started winding itself up to it's stream anchor, pulling away from the key.
The blue cutter pulling out with the second best bower and a second cable, laying out the second warp further away from the
ship but more in the direction of the fairway where the ship will be anchored. The steady click-click-click of the pawls on the
capstan and the squeaky tune played by a fifer sitting on the head of it to encourage the men.
Williams cocked his head, "who is using the rope's end? A Petty Officer or Boatswain?"
Aubrey raised an eyebrow then answered, "Petty Officer"
"We must not interrupt him now, we dare not undermined his authority, but you will be having a word with him, and with my
compliments he will not do it again." Ruben intoned.
The second best bower splashed into the sea from the blue cutter even as the stream anchor was right under the ship, the
stream anchor was brought to the surface and put into the Longboat and the Terpsichore continued her path, now winding
herself up to the second best bower. The Longboat carried the stream anchor out for a new bite, past the blue cutter and the
area were the second best bower sank out of sight.

"I will do so sir." Aubrey said, watching as things progressed.

The ship dragged herself across the water to her place of mooring before dropping her best bower, veering out a good scope of
cable then the second best bower. Lieutenant O'Mally came across the Quarterdeck, touched his hat and said, "We are now
anchored Sir."
"Dismiss the hands below and start feeding them." Williams answered him, turning from the sea for the first time since he took
station on the rail. "You did a fine job Patrick."
The Second Lieutenant grinned, he took the praise to heart and was all but glowing as he thanked the Captain and turned to
give the orders that would dismiss the crew members that were not on watch right now and would start the process of serving up
the spirits to the men.
Aubrey observed the Captain and the Second Lieutenant, noticed the reaction of the second lieutenant. Williams was definitely a
different type of captain than the normal ones he's been around. When Patrick left, Aubrey looked at Williams, "If you will excuse
me, Captain, I will go take care of something as well." he said with a nod and salute then left to go find the Petty Officer.

JP by
Captain Williams and Lieutenant Rutherford.
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Linette Geraud
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#38
01-23-2010, 11:25 PM
As the sailors were given leave to go get their rum and meal, Aubrey quietly called Petty Officer Daniels to one-side, taking him
towards the side-rail over looking the harbor.
Aubrey said to him,quietly and very firmly, "As per orders from the Captain, you nor anyone else, will be using the end of the
rope on the men. They are men, not animals, and will be treated as such."
The Petty officer looked at Aubrey, wondering about this.
"A word of encouragement will get more work out of them than the end of a knotted rope." Aubrey said to him. " I knew of a
couple of men who were too liberal in the use of the rope, they happened to get lost overboard one stormy night. I don't think
you'd particularly wish that to happen?"
Daniels shook his head in the negative.
"I would prefer to have a good crew, willing to do their best for the Captain and us out of loyalty and trust, than them wanting to
slice our throats at the first possible moment. I don't know if you've ever tasted the rope, but I have and it is not enjoyable."
Aubrey said."Are we of the same mind?"
Daniels nodded.
"All right, dismissed." Aubrey said, then watched as the petty officer walked away.
Aubrey glanced over towards Lieutenant Carson, he wondered if Carson had any idea what he'd like for the Wardroom and what
monies he had. Aubrey had a bit of money saved up plus a moderate stipend from his father and he would like to make certain
that they ate well and planned ahead for doing so. Walking up to up to Carson, Aubrey asked quietly.
"Lieutenant Carson, have you given any thought as to what you'd like for the wardroom? I do have some money which we can
pool together to get us supplied, and some suggestions as well, if you wish." he said with a smile and a nod in greeting.
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#39
01-24-2010, 12:52 PM
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson watched the off-duty Marines disperse from the Quarterdeck. He stood like a statue in his red
Marine uniform with his sword at his side.
Suddenly Aubrey approached and addressed him in a quiet tone.
"Lieutenant Carson, have you given any thought as to what you'd like for the wardroom? I do have some money which we can
pool together to get us supplied, and some suggestions as well, if you wish." he said with a smile and a nod in greeting.
Thomas replied, "I haven't had the opportunity to give it much thought. I intend to supply what funds I have, though it's not much.
Any suggestions you may have are very welcomed."
The truth of the matter was this was Thomas's first time seeing to the care of the Wardroom. A fact made even more complicated
by the long voyage that the officers were anticipating.
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Linette Geraud
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#40
01-24-2010, 06:10 PM
"Well, I suggest several Nubian goats for milk, as well as fresh meat. Bullocks and sheep do not travel too well. I suggest that
beef be acquired as potted meats,same with mutton. Some egg laying hens. I don't know if you use snuff, I've not gotten into that
habit. Some basic red and white wine from the Denbie Estate, good quality I must say and fairly inexpensive.Cheese. Apples in
water in an oak cask, potatoes, onions, turnips,carrots are vegetables that will last for a good part of the journey,dried berries if
you wish to add it to your porridge. Treacle to sweeten the coffee, tea or porridge. Tins of tea, as well as cake. Preserves to help
get the hard tack down." Aubrey said with a smile. "If you wish to dine on rabbit at some point, coneys are good in travelling as
well. We can also get some capons for chicken dinner." Aubrey stated."Brandy or bourbon if you wish something else beside
beer or rum. Bees wax candles to read by or dine with. These are things to name a few."
Aubrey paused to look at Thomas, to see what he thought. "These are things that will make life a bit more nice when on a long
voyage."
Thomas grinned at Aubrey.
"Aubrey, my good man, you seem to know your milks, potatoes and chickens," Thomas stated. "If you have the time, I could
greatly use your expertise on this matter. I've never been on a ship that has sailed farther than Scotland's coast. I feel the
logistical matters of provisions are somewhat beyond me at times, and I don't wish for the officers or crew to suffer the
misfortune of my missteps."
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Linette Geraud
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#42
01-24-2010, 09:35 PM
"I'll be glad to give you help, Thomas. I've been on a long journey before, so know what its like to have something and not have
something. When we get the chance, we'll get the list written and the prices figured out." Aubrey replied.
He looked at the marines, under Carson's command. "You have a smart looking bunch of marines there." Aubrey remarked.
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Jon Allen
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Posts: 340
#43
01-24-2010, 11:10 PM
Thomas smiled at the compliment.
"Ay," he replied. "They seem a good bunch of lads. I haven't had much time yet to train with them, I only joined them here in
Portsmouth a few days ago, but my Section Leaders are competent, and my Colour Sergeant is quite the warrior. They give us a
solid backbone."
He added, "Most of the Privates have never been to sea, once we get under sail, their 'real' education will begin."
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#44
01-25-2010, 10:04 AM
December 21, 1797
Keppels Head Hotel, Portsmouth
As it turned out, it took six days to arrive in Portsmouth. Andrew's troubles began almost immediately. When he arrived in Cork
City, the ship he was to travel on was a day late in its arrival to the city. The ship prepared for a quick turnaround and Andrew
was optimistic that they would arrive in Portsmouth on schedule. The first night out, however, unleashed a storm that the young
lieutenant had not experienced during all his years as a midshipman. When Andrew Foxall arrived in Portsmouth during the
evening of the 20th, he decided it was too late to report to the Terpsichore. Taking leave on the merchant ship, Foxall headed
towards the Keppels Head Hotel. Its location near the dockyard is what made Andrew choose the hotel. The hotel also allowed
him one more evening of festivities before his duties aboard the Terpsichore kept him otherwise occupied.

Waking early the next morning, Andrew couldn't remember much of the previous night. The pounding in his head and the half-
naked woman lying asleep in the bed next to him brought part of the evening back to him, but it couldn't conjure all of the

memories from the night before. Dressing quickly, he began to get ready for the day ahead. This was first time he had put on his
new uniform and Andrew was surprised at how well it fit and how well it looked on him. He stood admiring himself briefly in the
small mirror above the wash basin before exiting the room and heading down to the front desk. The clerk looked up as he
approached.
"May I help you sir?," the clerk asked.
"I was wondering if you could have a note sent to the dockyards notifying the HMS Terpsichore that I have arrived in Portsmouth
and will report after breakfast?"
"Of coure, sir. I'll have a note sent right away."
"Thank you."

Leaving the desk, Andrew made his way to the side room where the morning meal was being prepared. Lt. Foxall had two hard-
boiled eggs, sliced bread, cheese, and smoked sausage. Devouring the meal quickly, he paid his tab and headed back up to his

room to pack his few remaining things. The woman was still sleeping when he returned. Andrew packed his luggage, placed his
sword belt around his waste, and secured his new sword to the belt. Giving the room one more once over, he turned to leave the
room. Andrew reached the door before he turned around one more time. He headed over to the woman, gave her a deep kiss
and then left the room for good. The woman, awaken by the kiss, watched him leave lazily from the bed.
Andrew returned to the front desk once again.
"I was wondering if you have a boy to carry my bag for me to the dockyard."
"Yes sir," replied the clerk. "If you'll excuse me, I'll get him now."
The clerk left the desk and returned a few minutes later with a boy of eight or nine. Andrew handed the young boy his bag,
thanked the clerk, and headed for the dockyard. A marine stood guard at the entrance and requested Andrew's orders. Foxall
handed to the guard, waited while the marine read it, and then returned it to his pocket after inspection of the orders. The marine

saluted and made way for the new lieutenant.
"Excuse me Corporal, but could you orient me towards the Terpsichore?"
"Sir, the Terpsichore is warped out in the fairway," answered the marine. "A boat is ready to take you there. It's right over there
sir."
"Thank you, Corporal."
Andrew turned to the boy at his side, took the bag from him, and tipped him a farthing. Heading the waiting boat, he identified
himself, handed the bag to a sailor and stepped down into the boat for the short row out to the Terpsichore. Arriving at the
frigate, Andrew began the climb up the rope ladder to the deck of his new home. Reaching the top, Andrew called out.
"Lt. Andrew Ragsdale Foxall reporting for duty. Permission to come aboard."
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Linette Geraud
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#45
01-25-2010, 08:27 PM
"Boat arriving sir." Aubrey heard from the lookout in the crosstrees.
He went to the rail to see who was arriving, Aubrey watched as Andrew climbed up the rope ladder then stop before setting foot
on deck.Aubrey heard the request to come aboard from Lt. Foxall,
"Permission granted."He answered, waiting for Foxall to step on deck.Once Andrew was safe on the deck he said, "Let me see
your orders Lieutenant Foxall. I am Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford, executive officer."
His keen eyes took in the youthfulness of Andrew, and the uniform which looked brand-new. "First post, as a Lieutenant?"
Aubrey asked.
Last edited by Linette Geraud; 01-26-2010, 07:59 AM.
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#46
01-25-2010, 09:50 PM
Andrew crisply saluted before handing the lieutenant before him his orders.
"Yes sir. I have only received my commission nine days ago sir. I did briefly serve as Acting 3rd Lt. aboard the Inconstant before
that ship paid off. I look forward to learning further under yours and the Captain's tuteledge sir."
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Linette Geraud
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#47
01-26-2010, 08:14 AM
Aubrey nodded reading over the orders, once finished he handed them back asking.
"What made you late in your arrival, Lieutenant?" Aubrey asked. "I do hope you have a good reason for your tardiness." Aubrey
had a stern expression on his face."It would not have looked good on your record being beached as to not making your
appointment, on time.
Aubrey wasn't wanting to play hardnosed, but he hoped the young lieutenant had a good reason for his delayed arrival.
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Mevynn

Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#48
01-26-2010, 02:16 PM
Sam strolled along the docks, looking at the different ships, though none held the name of the ship he was looking for. The only
belongings he was carrying, was the clothes he was wearing, he still didn't understand why his mother had made such a fuss
over getting new cloths before he left, and a letter addressed to Captain Ruben Williams of the HMS Terpsichore. His father, glad
he had found the perfect solution for his son, had dropped him of in Portsmouth, as he passed the town to buy some new
supplies for his shop.
Of course Sam hadn't listened. Instead of going to the docks first and find out where the ship was docked, he had spend most of
his time in the town itself. When he was hungry he grabbed an apple from a hard working merchant to get something into his
stomach. Being a stranger in town however, he didn't know the merchant would start chasing him. Though the merchant was no
match for Sam and half an hour later, he was wandering around another part of the town.
He scratched the tip of his nose, as he reached the end of the docks, so if the ship was no longer docked, what was he going to
do now? He looked around and noticed some men stowing stuff in a small row boat, they looked like locals so maybe they could
help him out. A few jokes, laughs and helping the men stow some more stuff, he was sitting in the small boat, and one of his just
made friends was rowing him towards the frigate that was moored in the fairway. Sam had to admit, from a distance, the ship
looked impressive. Still he had no idea what he was going to do onboard the ship. Nor did he realize how long he would even be
onboard.
Once the small boat reached the frigate, Sam said his goodbye to his new friend and started to climb the rope ladder. A few
minutes later he stood on deck, not knowing he had to report somewhere or to a certain person, instead he started to walk
around.
OOC: Right, finally onboard :)
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#49
01-26-2010, 02:17 PM
Andrew was taken aback for a moment. It was true his trip took two days longer than expected, but he had only received his
commission and orders nine days before, and he wasn't required to report for another two weeks.
"My apologies, sir. I must beg you to forgive me. My passage from Cork City was delayed in arriving and encountered rough
seas on the route to Portsmouth. I only hope this will not reflect poorly on me in the future."
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Jon Allen
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#50
01-26-2010, 04:12 PM
As Sam climbed onto the deck, he found a Marine Officer standing there in his red uniform with a sword at his side. He turned to
face the new arrival as a sailor helped him climb over the rail onto the deck.
"Look alive there, the railing is slick," the Marine said. "Lieutenant Thomas Carson of His Majesty's marines."
Thomas nodded at Aubrey, the First Lieutenant was standing not far away on the Quarterdeck and seemed to be dressing down
a junior naval officer in a slightly harsh tone.
Thomas said to the new arrival, "You'll want to speak to the Gentleman there, First Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford."

Thomas gave Sam a look-over, trying to assess whether he was an officer, sailor, or something else by his clothing. More and
more officers and crew were joining the ship, creating a mixture of excitement and confusion as people found their way. Thomas
supervised the deck and tried to help control the chaos by directing rudder-less new arrivals.
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Linette Geraud
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#51
01-27-2010, 12:54 PM
Aubrey listened to Andrew's reasons. He was tired, keeping the crew in line but not do it in a way to get them to feel like they
were unappreciated. He also was keeping tabs on Petty Officer Daniels making certain he kept up what he was ordered to
do,not using the end of the rope on the men. This was wearing thin, he hadn't been able to play his violin in a bit, either. There
was much that had to be done and he would be too tired to play when his shift was done. Aubrey hadn't realized how much he
needed his music to keep him a bit more even tempered, until now.
"You were needed days ago and are still needed now. The Navy, once they send your orders, they expect you to report quickly."
Aubrey growled a bit. "We have more supplies coming in and you need to stow your gear, and get out here post haste.
He looked at the supplies coming, one of the sailors was having trouble bringing a crate up. "Steady there, don't want to have
that lost in the water!" He shouted out.
He looked back at Andrew, "We have a boat that is set for bringing in some hogs, I want you to get a crew and take a lighter to
move things along, is that understood?" Aubrey asked, "The quicker we get things shipshape, the better things will be for all." his
eyes showing that he's been hard at work and probably needing sleep.
Aubrey returned the nod towards Thomas, his eyes taking note of someone who had just arrived.
His eyes snapped back towards Andrew."You may proceed and be quick about it,dismissed!" he said gruffly.
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#52
01-27-2010, 01:35 PM
Andrew was still reeling from the reprimand he was receiving from his new superior. What did the lieutenant expect? It took six
days for the ship to arrive and cross to Portsmouth.
"Aye, aye sir."
Foxall saluted and then quickly made his way below deck. Not yet knowing which lodgings were his, he deposited his bag in the
wardroom and quickly returned to the deck. Spotting a grisled sailor, he called to him.
"You there, what's your name?"
"Petty Officer Matthew Wells, sir"
"Mr. Wells, get your division together and report back to me. We have work to do."
"Aye, aye sir," replied the Petty Officer.
The petty officer quickly disappeared and returned a few minutes later with a crew of eight.
"Reporting as ordered, sir."
"Very good, Mr. Wells. You all should do nicely. We are to bring aboard a shipment of hogs. The sooner we get it done, the
sooner we can do something else." Andrew smiled slightly as he said the last part.
"Very good sir."
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Mevynn

Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#53
01-27-2010, 01:52 PM
"Ay'ay, sir, Lieutenant, sir. Sam Dunlahm, sir. I was told to report on the ship, it's my first job on the sea, you see." He eyed the
sword that Lieutenant Carson was carrying. Compared to the wooden swords he used, to hold swordfights with his friends, it
looked quite dangerous.
He looked into the appointed direction, from a distance hearing the tone the gentleman was using. Sam scratched the tip of his
nose again. Looking up to Lt. Carson, he said, "Thank you." and headed towards the not so friendly gentleman.
"Greetings First Lieutenant Rutherford, mister Lieutenant Carson told me I had to talk to you. I'm Sam Dunlahm, sir, and this is
my first voyage on the ship."
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Jon Allen
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#54
01-27-2010, 03:06 PM
((Forenoon Watch - The Twenty First Day of December ))
Lieutenant Thomas Carson was sitting in his quarters. They weren't strictly his, they belonged to both him and Lieutenant
Rutherford, who was seemingly off attending to some duty. The ship was busy with activity as new men and materials were
brought aboard ship. The smell of the recent hog loading was fresh in his nostrils.
There were parts of this duty that Thomas was still getting accustomed to. The quiet solitude of the cramped wooden quarters
gave Thomas a chance to rest his mind and collect his thoughts. He wouldn't readily admit it, but as this was just his second
voyage, and his first as the senior Marine officer, he was a little nervous and afraid of making a mistake.
Still...as an officer and a Marine officer at that, his job was to look in control and in command. That meant he knew everything,
whether it was true or not. The lads would depend on that when things got rough.
Thomas finally grew bored. He put on his red uniform, red over-coat and hat, and headed for the deck to see what was going on.
When he got there, he found a fair hub of activity as a group of sailors were breaking ice off some coiled rope that had appeared
in the overnight hours. The air was brisk and cold. There was a fair breeze cresting the deck of the Terpsichore. The wood
planking was frozen and frosted over in shadowy parts of the deck where the sun's gaze couldn't reach the snow flake shaped
flecks of frost.
Thomas's thoughts were broken as he spotted a Marine approach in his peripheral vision. That was one of the nice things about
the Marines. Their distinctive red uniforms, more reminiscent of the British Army than the Navy, stood out on and below decks. It
was hard for one of Thomas's men to approach him without that color catching his eye.
Colour Sergeant Bourne, with those shaggy sideburns of his, snapped to attention and gave a salute.
Thomas quickly responded, "What goes Colour Sergeant?"
Dropping his hand, Bourne replied, "Sir, one of the boats that just came from shore carried a message for you from the harbor
master. Our carriage just arrived at the docks, courtesy of Division Headquarters."
The way Bourne emphasized the word 'our' told Thomas what he was referring to. It was a delivery of some importance and a
matter of security. It was one of Thomas's most important duties aboard the ship. He had been anticipating it's arrival for more
than a day now.
"Right then, I'll take two boats ashore to secure everything," Thomas said. "Muster nine Marines with their muskets and have
them meet me on-deck immediately. While I'm gone, form an unloading line on-deck with guards posted. Get the locker inventory
log book, and a pen and ink."
"Ay sir," Bourne replied.

"Oh and please inform the Officer of the Watch that the shipment of small arms for the gun locker has arrived at the dock and
that we'll be loading it shortly," Thomas added.
"Yessir," Bourne saluted and left.
Thomas headed for the ship's small boats to procure their use and get some sailors to lower two of them into the water.
(OOC: Part One of Two.)
Last edited by Jon Allen; 01-27-2010, 10:02 PM.
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Linette Geraud
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Posts: 4429
#55
01-27-2010, 03:11 PM
Once Andrew went off to do as was ordered.Aubrey turned his attention to the newcomer, he looked to be around twelve years
old. Aubrey's hard look softened just a bit,a new boy heading out on the sea for the first time.
"Welcome aboard Mid-shipman Sam Dunlahm, first voyage eh?" He actually smiled. "I'm hoping you are looking forward to it. I
remember my first voyage, was much younger than you were. I fell in love with the sea at that time. Go claim yourself a place to
sleep and report back to me."Aubrey said with a nod.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#56
01-28-2010, 02:31 PM
Originally posted by Linette Geraud View Post
"Welcome aboard Mid-shipman Sam Dunlahm, first voyage eh?" He actually smiled. "I'm hoping you are looking forward to it. I
remember my first voyage, was much younger than you were. I fell in love with the sea at that time. Go claim yourself a place to
sleep and report back to me."Aubrey said with a nod.
"Yes, sir Lieutenant, yes. It's my first voyage indeed and I have no idea what to expect from it. I do however have a letter on me,
I am to give to mon Capitan Williams, do you think he will have time to see me, Sir Rutherford? That is after I found myself a
place to sleep."
Sam looked around, having no clue where he should be looking for that place to sleep in the first place.
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Linette Geraud
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#57
01-28-2010, 02:47 PM
Aubrey smiled. "Come I'll show you where you need to go and I'll introduce you to the Captain."
Aubrey looked around to see if he could spot the captain, his eyes were caught for a moment by some of the activity on the
deck.
Last edited by Linette Geraud; 01-28-2010, 03:16 PM. Reason: needed to edit
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#58

01-29-2010, 01:23 PM
{HMS Tersichore}
{Shortly after 7 Bells, Forenoon Watch}
"That's good work there, Mr. Wells. Good work indeed," Andrew said as the last hog was lowered into the hold.
"Thank you sir."
"What is your position on the Terpsichore, Mr. Wells?"
"I oversee one of the guns on the main gun deck sir," replied the Petty Officer.
"Good. Good man. If you handle your gun half as well as you completed this task, the Frogs are in for some trouble."
"Let us hope, sir."
"That is all for now. Dismissed, Mr. Wells."
"Aye, aye, sir!"
Andrew turned and began walking towards the stern of the ship. As he strolled with his arms clasped behind his back, he
watched the ship's crew bustle all around him. Supplies and new crew were arriving almost constantly. The Terpsichore was a
beautiful ship and Andrew was proud to be assigned to her. Not everything was rosy for him. A slight frown appeared across his
face as he thought about the executive officer. Lt. Rutherford seemed to dislike him and he wasn't sure why. His only hope was
the the Captain was not in agreement about him. Thinking of the Captain, he knew he should report to him.
Andrew headed below and found the door to the Captain's cabin. Rapping twice on the wood, he waited for a response from the
other side.
Last edited by Ragsdale; 02-07-2010, 09:46 PM.
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Jon Allen
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#59
01-29-2010, 01:39 PM
((Forenoon Watch - The Twenty First Day of December ))
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson adjusted the glove that covered his left hand. It was damp and cold, a bone-chilling cold.
Despite his woolen undergarments, there was no denying the chill of this English weather. Just moments ago, Thomas had
watched sailors break off off the side of the small boat he was now sitting in.
Ahead of the red-dressed Marine Officer, four marines sat in the small launch, each with an oar in his hands. After a few minutes
of poor stroking, the four had finally gotten a rhythm going and the boat was now steadily making progress towards the
Portsmouth docks.
Just behind them, no more than 20 yards away, was a second boat of Marines. The HMS Terpsichore was now to their back,
anchored in the shallow harbor waters under a gray cloudy sky.
One of the Marines suddenly began to lose the rhythm, his oar striking the water at a different time than the others.
"Look alive Private," Thomas. "To the count...one...two...three...four..one...two.."
The Private quickly regained his steady rhythm of rowing with the others.
Many of the Marines under Thomas's command had never served aboard a ship, or handled a boat. Their lessons in life as a
sailor was an ongoing education.
Soon the docks seemed just a boat-length away. To their right was a large fat merchant vessel. Thomas could see the top of it's
rudder and the windows of it's Wardroom or Cabin. A civilian sailor in a gray coat stood there against the rail and watched the
Marines go by.
Thomas paid him no mind. His attention was diverted to the sight of a small sillouette standing on the dock and waving at
Thomas's boat.

"Fast rowing," Thomas ordered. "Prepare the lines."
The Marines raised their oars out of the water and slid them into the sides of the boat. Then the Marines on the starboard side of
the small launch grabbed the thick and stiff rope.
As the boat reached the dock, one of the Marines climbed onto the dock and began tying the boat in. A second Marine joined
him and they worked to tie the boat to the dock.
Thomas stepped off the boat onto the dock. Once he got his footing, he adjusted his hat and turned to the young boy running
towards him. The boy had a thick coat on, and a small tricorne hat.
"You lad," Thomas said. "State your business."
"I'm the Harbor Master's son sir," The boy said in a thick british accent. "My father asked me to watch for sailors from the
Terpsichore. Would you be them?"
"We're Marines lad," Thomas replied. "But we are indeed from the Terpsichore. I believe there's a carriage here for us. Kindly
ask them to bring the carriage here to us."
"Ay sir," the boy replied and ran across the wooden planking of the dock onto the shore and the rows of buildings just beyond the
harbor.
The second boat was now being tied up, and the Marines were recovering their muskets and lining up on the deck. Thomas had
9 Marines with him, 8 Privates and one Corporal.
"Shoulder Arms," Thomas ordered. "By file to the end of this dock, forward...march!"
The Marines began to march together down the slender wooden pier. Thomas walked alongside them with his left hand resting
against the pummel of the sword hanging at his left side.
When they left the pier behind and stepped onto a larger dock area with plenty of open space, Thomas ordered, "Right
Turn...March!"
The Corporal in front of the line of Marines turned 90 degrees to the right and continued marching. The rest of the column turned
on their heels at the spot where the Corporal had.
Once all the men had turned Thomas barked, "Section...Halt! Left Turn!"
The Marines came to a halt and then spun to the left.
Thomas turned around and saw a large carriage approaching. Two horses, their breathing appearing as a white mist, pulled the
carriage on it's somewhat squeaky wheels and metal axle.
The carriage came to a stop in front of the Marines. The carriage driver, a British Army soldier wearing a bicorne hat and
crossbelts over his red jacket, climbed down and saluted the Marine Officer.
At the same time, a second soldier climbed off the carriage's front seat and moved around to the left-side door of the carriage.
A third soldier, this one a Sergeant, stepped off the back of the carriage and walked towards Thomas.
"Sir," The Sergeant said, saluting him. "Sergeant Hector Jenkins, His Majesty's Second Foot Guards."
Thomas returned the salute, "Lieutenant Thomas Carson, of His Majesty's Marines, Marine Officer of the HMS Terpsichore."
Lowering his hand, Sergeant Jenkins replied, "I have your shipment of arms sir."
The pair walked up to the carriage. The Private standing there with a musket opened the left-side door, revealing wooden barrels
and containers. The carriage was nearly full.
"Corporal King, give me two Marines," Thomas shouted over his shoulder.
Two Marine Privates hustled over to Thomas's side.
"Carry one out and open it up," Thomas ordered.
The two Privates lifted one of the wooden crates out of the carriage and lowered it to the ground. They turned a simple metal
latch and opened it.

Thomas knelt down and inspected the contents. They were muskets, much like the ones the Marines carried. These however
had rougher barrels, making it easier to blacken them. These were intended not for use by the Marines, but by the Terpsichore's
sailors.
The process was repeated. The next box contained Musketoons. The thick barreled weapons could be loaded with multiple
pistol balls, rocks, hooks, or any other metal. They were an effective deck-clearing weapon. Thomas probably feared them most
in close-action.
The next box Thomas inspected contained cartridges. Each fit in the palm of his hand. Thomas could smell the gunpowder as he
inspected one. A powder charge and ball was in each cartridge. A Marine or sailor would tear or bite off the end, pour some
powder into the frizzen, and then place the rest of the cartridge down the barrel of a musket with a ram-rod.
Thomas had his Marines open one of the barrels. They contained cutlasses, some in better shape than others. Many of the
slightly curved swords needed sharpening.
Another barrel contained boarding axes. Hand-held axes with a broad axe end on one side, and a smaller pick-end on the other.
A useful weapon for close-action on the deck of a ship, and also good at tearing down doors and barricades.
The last box Thomas inspected contained what looked like cannon balls. But upon closer inspection, each had an end and a
fuse protruding from it. The hand-held grenade was going out of favor in land warfare, but it's usefulness at sea had not.
Throwing one below-decks, or onto the crowded deck of an enemy's ship could produce a devastating hail of shrapnel.
As he put a grenade back into the wooden box, Thomas asked, "You have a log of all this?"
"The inventory is here sir," Sergeant Jenkins said, producing a sheet of paper with a list.
Thomas read it aloud, "Muskets, Musketoons, pistols, flints, officer's swords, cutlasses, boarding axes, grenades, cartridges,
additional powder and shot."
Sergeant Jenkins handed him another piece of paper, "You'll need to sign for it sir."
The Sergeant produced a small corked bottle of ink and a pen. Stepping over to the carriage, Thomas found a flat surface to sign
his name.
"It's all yours sir," Sergeant Jenkins said. I sign these materials to your care, courtesy of the Foot Guards.
Turning to the small Marine Detachment, Thomas said, "Corporal King, have the men stack their muskets, lets get these cases
loaded into the boats, careful please."
The Marines crossed their muskets, standing them near the dock. Then they began to grab the cases, boxes and barrels and
carry them to the boats. The Army Sergeant and his men stood by and waited. Thomas could order them to assist, but he
decided he would rely on his own Marines.
The Army Sergeant and Privates stood and waited.
Thomas watched the men carefully, especially in the more narrow parts of the pier where ropes and mooring rods protruded from
the wooden planking. The job could have been accomplished much faster with more men, but Thomas was glad he hadnt
brought more. The weight of the cargo was obvious and he didnt want to risk overloading the small boats.
After about 15 minutes, the last barrel of pistols was lifted out of the carriage. The Sergeant saluted Thomas, who in turn,
dismissed the Army detachment.
Thomas ordered his Marines back into the boats and they were soon rowing back to the Terpsichore.
********************* 10 minutes later ************************
On the deck of the HMS Terpsichore, Colour Sergeant Bourne was standing by with several Marines. They had formed an
unloading line of men that ran from the rail, across the deck, and below to the gun locker where most of the ordnance would be
stowed. The sailors on-deck could watch, but were ordered to stay clear by the bushy side-burned Colour Sergeant.
As the boats came alongside, a couple sailors were allowed to help the boat tie up alongside and the unloading began. Each
large wooden container, small box and barrel, was hefted onto the deck and then passed down the line.
After the first boat was unloaded, Thomas came aboard with the Marines.
Colour Sergeant Bourne, Thomas called. Where is the log for the gun locker?
Bourne walked over and produced the book.

Go below, stand by the locker and see to the inventory, Thomas ordered. Unload the muskets and musketoons into the locker.
Keep the pistols, cartridges and spare flints in their barrels and boxes. Do the same with the cutlasses. I will supervise the deck.
Ay sir, Bourne said and saluted before marching off.
Thomas headed up to the Quarterdeck. He would continue to supervise the loading of the gun locker from that vantage point.
As he stepped onto the Quarterdeck, he tipped his hat to any officers present with a simple Good day. Thomass hands and
uniform already reeked of gunpowder and anyone near him could smell it in the cold and moist harbor air.
(OOC: If you happen to be on-duty on the Quarterdeck, feel free to strike up a conversation or we could do a joint post. Just be
advised that my internet-connection is being finicky today)
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Lupe
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Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#60
01-29-2010, 03:26 PM
Captain Ruben Williams was hip deep in accounts but that was not what had him scowling.
He had a note from the Port Admiral telling him that on December twenty-eight he was to warp the Terpsichore up to the pier and
take on a very heavy but small cargo, that he was to keep it secure under lock and key, and that he would sign for it, and that
once it was aboard he was to warp out as far into the offing as was practicable and take the first favorable wind South.
What in the devil was he going to be carrying that was in twenty boxes and weighed one thousand pounds? And why?!?
Andrew headed below and found the door to the Captain's cabin. Rapping twice on the wood, he waited for a response from the
other side.
"Come in." He answered, setting the letter in his desk and closing it as he did so.
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Ragsdale
Senior Member
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Posts: 418
#61
01-29-2010, 04:09 PM
Andrew heard the voice from the other side of the door and took a deep breath. Taking one last tug at his jacket and placing his
bicorne under his arm, he opened the door.
"3rd Lef'tenant Andrew Ragsdale Foxall reporting for duty sir."
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Lupe
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#62
01-29-2010, 07:15 PM
Ruben looked him over. "Since we are ordered to sail as soon as the wind serves after the twenty-eighth, I was wondering if you
would get here in time or if we would have to leave you."
"A few things, I don't approve of starting, kicking or damning of limbs and eyes." Ruben informed him, "our crew are men, not
beasts."
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Ragsdale
Senior Member

Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 418
#63
01-29-2010, 07:29 PM
"Understood sir. I will push the men hard, but I won't abuse them. I've found in my short time that words both stern and
complimentary have a far greater effect than the lash."
Andrew paused to try and gage the Captain's response to what he said. Unable to discern anything, Foxall continued.
"It is a bit curious about my orders sir," said the younger officer. "What I mean is, why would my orders have a later report time? I
would have surely been upset to miss my first posting as a lieutenant. Now, what would you like me to do sir? Am I to oversee
the guns?"
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Lupe
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#64
01-29-2010, 08:33 PM
"You will be in charge of the Main deck guns, yes." Ruben agreed, "as for your orders, I don't know why they would write them
that way either."
He looked at his new Third Lieutenant, "Have you met your new mess mates yet?"
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Ragsdale
Senior Member
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Posts: 418
#65
01-31-2010, 02:34 PM
"Other than briefly reporting to Lt. Rutherford sir, no. I do hope to get the opportunity shortly. Now, if you'll excuse me sir, I'd like
to check over the guns and their crews."
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Lupe
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Posts: 9349
#66
01-31-2010, 02:49 PM
"Very well, dismissed." Ruben said as he turned back to his desk.
Opening it and picking back up the note from the Port Admiral.
Ruben walked to the bow windows that covered the rear of the cabin and poured over the letter again...
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#67
01-31-2010, 03:01 PM
"Mister Rutherford, I am going ashore for cabin stores, I will take the Longboat since it is already in the water, but I will need a
boat's crew."
"Aye Captain!" Aubrey replied making a snappy salute, then assigned a crew for the Captain.

Ruben went to his cabin to get his purse, and put on his uniform coat, hat, and sword. By the time he had gotten back on deck
the preparations were made and everything was ready, he looked fore and aft before stating the time honored and legally
binding words. "Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford, the ship is yours, I should be back before the end of the last dog."
Aubrey nodded, "I'll keep things in order, Captain and continue getting things ready." he said with a nod."May you be able to
acquire all that you need with out too much fuss."
Then he saw a brand new face, one that looked familiar, "You, boy, come here."
Sam had seen a man coming on deck, was that the Capitan, he wondered. He followed the conversation, a smile showing on his
face as he got confirmation on his question. At least he wouldn't have to ask around where he could find the captain. As the man
called for him, he quickly said a "Thank you." to mister Rutherford and with a quick pace walked towards the captain.
"Sir Capitan Williams? Sam Dunlahm, sir. I was told to report on this fine ship you have here."
Ruben smiled down at him. "Your my new squeaker, come on, I was going into town for some supplies, you can keep station on
me." Ruben pointed into a boat sitting beside the ship, it's crew already sitting in it waiting for their Captain. "Go on now, get in
the boat."
Sam looked from the captain to the boat. He just got out of a boat and now he had to get into another to go back to the docks?
He shrugged, the captain was the boss and with some effort he descended the rope ladder and sat down on an empty spot.
Ruben went over the side to the pipes and salutes due a Post Captain and into the boat. As he made his way to the sternsheets
his hand fell on Sam's shoulder and he half carried him to the back of the boat with himself. "Son, when your riding with the
Captain you ride in the back of the boat."
It pulled away heading back for the hard and town.
Sam half carried, stumbled and followed the captain, sitting down at the assigned spot. "The back of the boat it is, mon Capitan."
He pulled out an envelope from the inside pocket of his jacket. It contained a letter from his father but also a letter from his
mother, though he had no clue what was in it. "My father told me, to give this to you, mon Capitan," he said as he handed over
the envelop.
"It's Captain, or Sir, we are not French men and to use the French titles would be out of place." Ruben said not unkindly. He
tucked the envelop into his own coat pocket, he would not read it in such a public place, nor where the boy himself could read
over his arm.
"So your my nephew, well I won't hold that against you, if you promise not to hold me being your uncle against me."
Sam saw the envelop disappear, he also felt his stomach grumbling, he hadn't eaten in a while. "I'm holding nothing against you,
mon Captain," he corrected himself at the last moment. "So what supplies are we going to buy, captain?"
"Cabin stores, some food for a growing boy, a few lambs, and why aren't you wearing a dirk?" the fact that the boy didn't have a
shiny new long bladed knife just hit Ruben.
"A dirk, captain? Why would I need a dirk?"
He also wondered why they would hold a few lambs on the ship, surely not to eat, would they? Though he kept quiet.
"Come now, how are you going to knife the evil French Captain when we board his ship without a dirk?" Ruben smiled, "and also
when all hands to witness punishment is called you must wear your dirk, it's part of your uniform, if a man has to be flogged his
officers should at least have the decency to wear their proper uniform when it's done."
The stroke oar in the seat infront of Sam and facing him was a large man with a small scar by his mouth that made him look like
he was always grinning just nodded his head in agreement.
'Flogged, all hands to witness a punishment? And the man in front of him seemed to agree?' Sam suddenly had the feeling he
would have prefered to stay at home. Still, they were going to buy some lambs, maybe he could hide with those, in case the time
came. He gave the captain a weak smile and saw the docks coming closer and closer, as he said, "A dirk it is then."
The boat grounded on the shale and Ruben stood, walking forward and chiving Sam behind him. "You must get in a boat before
your superior officers and leave it after them, the highest rank last. Remember that."
Leave the boat as last, enter the boat as first, and sit at the back with the captain, Sam was learning fast.
The first stop was for the livestock, lambs, sheep, pigs and a nanny goat, the next was a poultry yard for chickens. All of it was
arranged to be delivered to the ship.

While the captain talked to the merchant to buy the lambs, Sam looked at a cute little black lamb, which looked at him with an oh
so innocent look in his own eyes that Sam secretly named it Cutie. To his own surprise as they left to continue to buy other
things, he saw that Cutie was captured and Sam wondered if the lamb would end up on the Terpsichore too.
Ruben looked around, "I still need coffee, seasonings and wine..." he looked at Sam closer, "but I think it is time to stop and eat
how about you?"
"That sounds like a perfect plan, mon Captain, I haven't eaten in a while." He had been so busy looking around, taking in how
deals were made, debating about the better price, discussing who'd take the animals to the frigate, he almost had forgotten not
to call the captain mon Capitan. He saw they came near the area where he had taken the apple, hopefully the merchant wouldn't
recognize him or else he'd have some of explaining to do.
Ruben steered them into an inn and they sat down. The inn keeper brought them a stew with mutton as the meat, potatoes and
cabbage being the other two main ingredient, and pint glasses of what he called Sherry wine, Ruben called it something else
when the inn keeper was not present.
"Dig in, always remember to eat when you get the chance because you never know when you will get to eat again." Ruben told
him sagely.
Even though he was very hungry, Sam was a bit hesitant before he started. Should he let the captain eat first and then start on
his own plate, just like the boat thing or not? In the end, his hunger won and he dived into the dish, squashing the potatoes with
the cabbage and while eating some stew in between he tried not to think of Cutie.
As he finished, he drank half of his pint and let everything sink for a moment. "Thank you for the meal Captain." He looked
around in the inn, before he continued, "And thank you for letting me come onboard the Terpsichore. Maybe it is exactly what I
need." He tried to be smart and repeated the words his own father had spoken to his mother concerning Sam, when his father
thought Sam wasn't listening.
Ruben had eaten his own stew, munching the bread at the same time. He was still finishing up when Sam was sitting back and
he grinned because he was caught with a mouthful.
He swallowed and sipped the vinegary wine before answering. "I was three years younger then you when I first went aboard a
ship, it was my father's ship, his Captain rated me cabin boy first class." Ruben smiled at the memories, so desperate, always
hungry, always sleepy, and never sure what he was suppose to be doing. "I am going to give you some advice. Don't think of me
as your uncle, I am the Captain, don't prate or get above yourself either, I will be treating you like every other Midshipman, no
better, no worse, and if you try to use me to get special consideration in the Midshipman's berth, they will make your life a living
hell. Do your duty, learn everything anyone will teach you, be fair to your men, neither striving to be popular nor being a tyrant
over them, and these days will be a golden memory to you later in life."
Sam took another sip of his pint and took in the words of the Captain, his father never gave him advice like this, still he couldn't
compare the two. "What exactly will my duty be on the ship, captain? That is next to learning everything I can," he added with a
grin.
"You will be aid-de-camp to the First Lieutenant when we are at our action stations, that means you will be on the Quarter Deck
standing by the Lieutenant, the one you were talking to when I came on deck this morning, and if he sends you to deliver a
message, or do something you do it as fast and as best as you can." Ruben smiled as he talked, the smell of slowmatch, the
smoke of the great guns, the passage of shot and chain shrieking overhead, that living in the moment feeling. "We will teach you
a mast, probably the mizzen mast at first, and up the line to the Fore then Main. You will also be taught to handle a boat, not just
conning but also to sail her and even fight her."
He nodded to the drink in the boy's hand, "You don't have to finish it, it's pretty course stuff. But when your ready we can go taste
some that is much better."
Sam firmly put down the pint, "Aye, sir, I'm ready sir." His eyes not only twinkling from the prospect of what he was going to do
and learn onboard of the ship - Climbing the mast, rigging the sails, delevering messages. Of course he had no idea yet, he'd
have to do it in any weathercondition: under the baking sun, under heavy rain, in storm conditions, or as currently when it was
freezing cold out there - but also of the Sherry wine, he wasn't used of handling.
After the captain paid the innkeeper he followed his uncle outside to the next place where they would be buying more supplies.
The coffee he bought in bulk, buying a bag of beans ready to be roasted right now and a second bag of bean that were still
green and would be ready in a month or more. He bought a stone of black pepper, and some other spices.

After shopping for many other items, and he knew he had forgotten some, everyone always does, he stepped over to a wine
merchant.
The Port and Madeira were easy choices, he ordered cases of each in different years, but then there was some Clairet he
wanted to try and a brandy.
"I will buy one bottle of the Clairet to try right now. Pour two glasses so my young friend can give me his opinion too." Ruben told
the merchant, laying down the coin for the bottle. The man poured out two glasses from a bottle and offered it to them. Ruben
picked his up, "to your very good health." and took a sip of his wine.
Sam picked up the glass of wine and looked at the rosé wine, just like he used to see his father looking at it. He then swirled the
wine in the glass, and took a small sip, not even enough to swallow so he had to take another sip. 'Clairet' he thought to himself
as he took another drink, "A bit heavy on the end but it tastes good." He said as he looked up to the Captain.
Ruben nodded, "I agree, I will take three cases of it too." He set down his empty glass and looked around, "I think that is all... but
wait, you should have something to bring into the Midshipman's mess."
He grinned, "I wish a case of '75 Madeira sent to the Terpsichore for Samuel Dunlahm, add the charge to my bill, thank-you."
Ruben's eyes twinkled, "that ought to get you in good with your mess mates. Now, we need to find you a dirk..."
Things were dazzling for Sam, a case of wine, for him and his mess mates and now still a dirk, even though the captain had told
him not to ask for any favours. "How can I ever repay you, captain?" he asked as he followed the captain to the weaponsmith.
What he saw there amazed him even more. Benches filled with all different kinds of swords, daggers, blades, and other
weapons. Even the walls held slashing weapons Sam couldn't even put a name on. He had never seen so many closeby, unless
for the kitchenknife his mother used at home. And now he would get one of those knifes and would be able to call it his own.
What had the captain said again? It would complete his uniform. Only now Sam realized what his mother had wanted to do with
getting him a new set of clothes before he left. Somehow he wished his mother could see him now. Maybe instead of making her
cry like last night, this would have put a smile on her face, making her pride of her own son.
He turned towards his uncle, leaving it up to him, to know which one of these weapons would suit his new midshipman best.
Ruben picked up a pretty common design, different enough to stand out but not so different to claim a better class then his
peers, it had an 18" engraved blade, fish skin grip, lion head pommel with a ring to accommodate the dirk knot. The black leather
scabbard has two rings on the top locket to attach to the Midshipman's belt. He gestured to it, "that one please."
The armorer picked it up and gave a price, Ruben laid down the gold pieces, counting them as he set them down. Once it was
paid for he handed it to Sam. "Put it on now, it ties to your belt here," Ruben pointed to the leather strap that was on the belt of
Sam's uniform. "Don't dishonor it, and don't play with it or I will whip you with the scabbard. Your father has advanced your
allowance into my bank, you are buying the case of wine and the dirk out of that money."
Sam was speechless, he held the scabbard in his hands, not daring to get the dirk out of it. This was the real thing, not a wooden
toy. Following the directions the captain had given him, he strapped it, a bit clumsy on his belt. Now if only his mother and his
father, after hearing he was paying for it, could see him now. Now that it was strapped, he placed his hand on the grip and
moved the dirk up a bit and putting it down again. He'd practice this some more when he was alone.
With an honest twinkling in his eyes, he looked up at the captain again, "Thank you, captain. This is the best thing anyone has
ever given to me." Sam felt complete now, maybe this forced change in his life wasn't so bad after all.
He followed the captain outside, "So do we need more supplies, sir?"
"No, now we need to go back to the ship." Ruben headed for the hard and the longboat. Again he gestured for Sam to enter the
boat before him.
Once they were settled the sailors pushed the boat off the shale beach and into the water, agilely climbing back into the now
floating boat without upsetting or even rocking it hard. The oars were out and they started to row back to the Terpsichore.

"Remember to take your hat off to the Quarterdeck when you step on board, you must always salute the Quarterdeck of a man-
o-war." Ruben told Sam in an undertone.

"Aye, sir," Sam replied, trying to find a good position to sit down with his dirk now attached to his belt. He kept his hand on the
grip, afraid that if he'd let go, he'd lose it already. Now knowing a bit more what to expect on the ship and what he would have to
do, he kept staring at her, taking in every detail as she came bigger and bigger in his view. "She's a fine ship, isn't she captain?"

"She is the best. A frigate is the best of all worlds, fast, strong, yet small enough to be on independent missions, not just back
and forth on blockade." Ruben smiled, "you have joined the right ship for learning your trade youngster, we will get sailing,
fighting, and every other kind of experience you will need when you have a ship of your own."
They came close to the ship and the time ritual cry of "what boat? what boat is that?"
The coxswain at the tiller called back, "Terpsichore!"
Ruben looked down at Sam and smiled, "They all know it's us but the question has to be asked for the formal gathering on the
deck when I go up the side. You will probably be part of the side-boys party, and when your called to dress the side you are
representing the ship so be sure to look smart."
"Yes, sir, and thank you sir," Sam said, and waited for the captain to get out of the small boat. A few moments later, after some
struggling with his dirk, he followed and set foot on the deck of the ship that was going to be his new home for the next weeks
and probably months.
---
JP between
Captain Ruben Williams ~ CO ~ HMS Terpsichore
Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford~XO~HMS Terpischore
Samuel 'Sam' Dunlahm - HMS Terpsichore
Last edited by Mevynn; 01-31-2010, 03:37 PM. Reason: Cosmetic changes :)
Quote Flag
Dorella Allerod
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 3536
#68
01-31-2010, 06:13 PM
Edmund had been planning this for a week, he wanted to make no mistakes.
One mistake could have a guard at his door and a personal servant by his side day and night. He was not going to marry some
ugly person, he was sick of all the rules, and did not think living such a rigid life could possibly be any fun. Edmund wanted
adventure, not some stuffy, Aristocratic, pretentious, Royal life style.
Yes, he planned it very carefully, he was sure he had no mistakes. Edmund was not worried about waking up in time for his
escape, he had tossed an turned with nerves all night. The case clock downstairs chimed three o'clock, finally, his adrenaline
could be free. He pulled his small bag from under his bed and put on his shoes. He tiptoes, bag in hand, to the door and peeked
both ways, it was clear. He carefully went down the stairs and to the ballroom slipping through the French doors and onto the
terrace. Slipping down the terrace to the grounds below, he was greeted by the guard dogs that recognized him and wagged
their tails. He knew he would miss his pals, probably his only real friends. Edmund had saved back a treat for the last time, as he
fed it to them he petted and hugged them goodbye, as he realized he needed to hurry.
The market wagon would be heading into town, he would hitch a ride on it when it came by, if he got to the main road in time.
Edmund ran fast as he could for as long as he could.
As the wagon topped the hill over Portsmouth, Edmund saw it for the first time and the bay glowing in the newly risen sun on the
far side of it. He took a breath and thought, 'what a beautiful sight.' As the wagon headed down the hill to go to market he went
over the information he had collected, the reason he had planned to escape now.
He had overheard his father speaking of the frigate that was going far foreign with a Captain that was a different kind of man,
nicer to his men, careful about his ship and yet lucky too. That would be adventure.
Edmund thanked the driver and left the cart at the market, walking across town, he was singing Terpsichore, Terpsichore in a
singsong all the way to the harbor, where he found a bum-boat that was going to the Terpsichore.
When the boat came alongside Edmund was excited, he looked up and saw an officer so he asked him, "Am I to late to join? I
hope not."
Lieutenant O'Mally looked down at him, "come aboard and we can talk about it."

Edmund began to climb the entry ladder, the wooden steps were more slippery than one might imagine. He got onto the deck
and stood up to face the officer while still clutching tightly to his bag.
"Do you have any experience boy?" O'Mally asked him.
"I could be a Steward, and I can tell you why." Edmund said bravely. "Do you want to know why?"
O'Mally looked disgustedly at him, "don't get lippy, but tell me why?"
Edmund swallowed as he realized he had already made an oops. "Well Sir, I can set a mighty fine table, make coffee, I also
know how to wash and mend clothes, and I can do a right nice shoe shine too." He hoped he had put the unlearned slang into
his speech as he mimicked the servants back home.
"What do your parents think of this lark?" Asked a man dressed in blue and gold lace standing at the break of the Quarter deck
looking down at Edmund.
Edmund swallowed hard again as he looked up at the great man he was sure had to be the Captain, "Well Sir, I am an orphan,
been such since I can last remember."
Ruben looked him over, "how old are you boy?"
Edmund almost froze in panic, and thought 'can I pull this off, or have I been caught already?' He lowered his eyes to the planks
on the deck, and sheepishly said, "Sir, I am fifteen, I think."
"I have a Steward already, and your to young for that job." Ruben told him, pausing deliberately for his disappointment to sink in,
then salved it by continuing, "But my Steward needs a mate, and if your willing to serve under him I will take you on."
"Oh yes Sir." Edmund said hopefully, "I will do anything. I have no where else to go."
"O'Mally, read him in and introduce him to my Steward." Ruben said then turned to some other business.
The Lieutenant he first talked to steered Edmund to a large book under the break of the Quarterdeck near a door that was
guarded by a Marine with a musket and pulled out two books, one was thin but had a lot of writing on it and the other was a
muster book with a list of names. O'Mally smiled at him, "I have to read this to you first, then you sign this book here, can you
write, if not you can just make your mark."
The Lieutenant started reading the Articles of War, "1. All commanders, captains, and officers, in or belonging to any of His
Majesty's ships or vessels of war, shall cause the public worship of Almighty God, according to the liturgy of the Church of
England established by law, to be solemnly, orderly and reverently performed..." Through all the way to 36, "All other crimes not
capital committed by any person or persons in the fleet, which are not mentioned in this act, or for which no punishment is
hereby directed to be inflicted, shall be punished by the laws and customs in such cases used at sea. "
He held out the book with the names and a pencil. "Sign here" he pointed at a place on the book.
Edmund made a big X where the man pointed. He figured that would help in his cover by pretending he didn't know how to read
or write.
O'Mally took back the book and pencil, he felt bad for the kid if he had been brough up by the church he would have been taught
by the nuns how to read and write, "I need your name boy." O'Mally told him holding the pencil ready to write.
Edmund stuttered, "Um, Um, It's Edmund Burke Sir."
O'Mally looked at him, "fresh start son?"
Edmund's eyes sheepishly went to the deck once again, this time he cleared his throat from nerves, "Um, that's the name they
gave me in the orphanage, I know not my origanal name." He hoped the man would take pitty on him.
O'Mally wrote on the book, 'the mark of Edmund Burke, as witnessed by Lieutenant Patrick O'Mally' He clapped the book shut
and said, "Come on, and I shall introduce you to the Steward." He walked through the door that was being guarded by the
Marine.
Edmund followed anxiously to meet the Steward.
He breathed a sigh of relief, 'I actually pulled it off... for now.'
Quote Flag
Mevynn

Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#69
02-01-2010, 01:43 PM
Sam looked around on the deck, his hand again on the grip of the dirk. He was looking for someone. A few moments later he
located mister Rutherford.
Now Sam had only one problem. Captain Williams had told him to take off his hat when he moved on to the Quarter Deck. Now
his problem was: Where did the Quarter Deck start?
He decided not to take any chance, he removed his hat and walked towards the First Lieutenant. Still having a warm feeling of
the sherry and wine he had been drinking, he didn't feel the cold.
Once he was near the lieutenant, he straightened his back and stood next to the lieutenant, looking into the direction Aubrey was
looking himself. The next moment he broke the silence, "Mister Rutherford, mon Capitan has informed me, we'll be working
close together?"
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#70
02-02-2010, 06:41 PM
Aubrey blinked, he had been keeping watch over the loading of supplies and encouraging the men to do their best, and at times
somewhat stern, but not too stern, just to keep them on their toes. He looked at Sam,with his hat in hand.
"Yes, we will be working together, however..."Aubrey caught the scent of sherry and wine on Sam's breath, " I suggest that you
proceed to your hammock and get some shut eye. And you may put your hat on your head, wouldn't want your death of cold,
Sam." Aubrey said. "I've got to head into town to get some supplies of my own." Aubrey smiled at Sam.
"Count yourself lucky in getting some sleep while you can." Aubrey's smile broadened into a grin. "I'm sure the men on deck will
be happy not to see my face at the moment. I'm afraid I've been abit gruff with them."
Aubrey looked back over towards the men working doggedly at their task, then he looked back at Sam. "Come on midshipman,
lets get you settled." Aubrey said.
Before he left the deck he noticed that O'Malley had just gotten back on deck.
"O'Malley you have the deck! Sam, follow me." Aubrey said.
He takes Sam to where the midshipmen sleep, "Here is where you will sleep, and stow your gear."
Aubrey stifled a yawn. "Excuse me."He said, " I am a bit tired but I still need to go take care of something personal. Get some
sleep lad." Aubrey said kindly. "I need to get ashore before the shops close."
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#71
02-03-2010, 02:56 PM
(Adding an addition to my post above realized I had forgotten something.)
With a pat on Sam's shoulder, Aubrey turned and left to go find Lieutenant Thomas Carson. Aubrey thought he had noticed
Thomas on the quarter deck. Once back on the deck he looked around then spotting Thomas, went up to him.
"Lieutenant Carson,my good man, was wondering if you'd go with me to shore and pick up supplies we'll need for the wardroom.
Perhaps you will see something I've not thought of, it would give you a better idea as to what is needed with hands on
experiance."

<tags Thomas>
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#72
02-04-2010, 12:45 PM
"O'Malley you have the deck! Sam, follow me." Aubrey said.
Captain Williams had been watching the loading of the Terpsichore with the closest care, his life, his very reputation and
livelihood were resting on how this ship was stocked, and loaded. As soon as they were out of the harbor they might be yardarm
to yardarm with a Frenchman, like two boxers standing toe to toe slugging it out. Or worse, he might be in a luffing match, sail,
gunnery, and luck keeping the Terpsichore from wearing the tricolor, or going to the bottom sails all set and his body washing in
the scuppers.
He had watched his men, and his officers. He had driven them hard too. The powder hulk was coming in the morning and he
didn't want the Officers and men to be to jaded to handle the tons of explosives safely.
"Mister O'Mally, as soon as this lighter is unloaded, we will give the dog-watches to the King, the hands will be turned up for
dancing and singing."
O'Mally looked at him, 'a tearing rush then lets stop and rest?' he thought to himself then "aye, aye Sir."
O'Mally looked down at the hands in the waist of the ship, they had taken to long to unload as they didn't want to have to do
another one after that. "Did you hear there? The sooner you get done the sooner you get to lie around caterwauling you idle
devils."
A few knuckled their foreheads in acknowledgement but all of them sped up the pace of loading and stowing the hold.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#73
02-05-2010, 08:45 AM
Sam gladly put back on his hat. Even though his cheeks felt warm, he could feel the cold wind blowing around his ears. He
followed mister Rutherford into the place where he would spend his nights sleeping. A hammock, he never slept into one.
"Thank you Mister Rutherford, have a nice trip to the shore," he replied as the XO said his goodbye.
Looking around he found himself an empty hammock in a corner somewhere, the floorboards underneath it being empty so he
gathered no-one was sleeping in that specific corner and he decided to make that spot his own.
He looked around, most people were still on deck, handling the stowing of the goods, he didn't waste much time and grabbed
the hammock, after some maneuvering, and thinking, he made his first attempt and swing his right leg on the hammock, the next
moment he was laying down alright, on the floorboards underneath the hammock.
He quickly looked around, no one was watching and quickly stood up. This would require a different approach. This time, he
managed to sit down and started to swing back and forth to get a bit used to it. Now the next part. He managed to lay down but
because of the swinging of the hammock and not being able to keep his balance, he ended up on the floorboards again but this
time on his stomach.
In the distance he heard some chuckles and he looked around again, but couldn't determine who made the noises.
He stood up with a sigh, adjusted his uniform and checked if his dirk was still attached to his belt. Not giving up, he tried again,
and again and again. Each time the chuckling becoming louder and louder. Sam didn't dare anymore to look who it was.
But now he was determined not to give up either. Finally, he lost track of counting, he managed to keep his balance by holding
on to the wooden walls on his side and he was now laying down on his back on the hammock.
Somewhere someone shouted, "Good going, lad." And it was ended with a saldo of laughs.

Sam hardly dared to move, afraid he'd drop out of it again. Slowly he moved his hand to the side and grabbed the grip of his dirk
and closed his eyes, trying to get some sleep.
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#74
02-05-2010, 09:47 AM
(OOG: Will be working on a JP with the Marine Lieutenant very soon but needed to post this)
With a nod in agreement from Thomas, Aubrey looked over towards Lieutenant Foxall, he would be part of the wardroom and he
hadn't even asked him what he'd like to be picked up. In anticipation of going ashore, Aubrey was feeling not so cranky.
"I'll return shortly, need to talk with Lieutenant Foxall for a moment."
Approaching him, Aubrey said in a rather quiet voice, where only Andrew could hear.
"I'm going ashore to get some supplies for the wardroom with Lieutenant Carson, is there anything you'd like for me to pick up
for you." Aubrey asked, his tone not curt in anyway, but actually congenial; his demeanor far different than what is was earlier.
<tag Foxall>
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#75
02-05-2010, 02:31 PM
Andrew was a bit startled by Lt. Rutherford's voice directly behind. Even more taken aback, was the tone of that voice. Gone
was the harshness of their earlier encounter. Realizing that he had not responded, Andrew quickly turned around and
stammered, "Sir? What would I... for the mess?"
Aubrey grinned then it faded some, thinking of his earlier behaviour. "Yes, what would you like to have purchased for the
wardroom. Anything in particular you'd like?"
"Ah, yes, yes sir. Some chickens for fresh eggs, a few guinea fowls, some cheddar, and several hares sir, if it's not too much
trouble."
Aubrey nodded taking down the request, "Also anything for creature comforts for you, like brandy, sweetmeats something of that
nature, candles, pen and ink perhaps a book?"
"I'm not quite certain, sir. I haven't quite got settled in yet. I should think candles, pen and ink will be necessary. Also, if you can
find me a leather-bound journal, I would be most grateful. I hate to be a burden, but a book or two, perhaps Wordsworth's and
Coleridge's Lyrical Ballads or Jan Potocki's Manuscript Found in Saragossa, would be greatly appreciated. If it's too much of an
inconvenience, I understand however, sir."
Adding to the list Aubrey said "Done and Done, I've got books of my own and perhaps we can exchange books if you so desire."
He added with a nod.
"I would like that quite a bit, sir. Thank you." Andrew still couldn't believe the change in tone from his earlier encounter with the
executive officer. "Would you like me to pay for the items now or settle up after you have bought all of the mess supplies?"
"Settle up when I get back. It won't be any trouble at all. Anything else you can think of before I head off to shore?" checking
once more before folding up his paper with requested items listed.
"No sir. Thank you sir. I look forward to your return." Andrew saluted. Andrew turned back around to see that the men were
stowing the last of the latest shipment.

Aubrey returned the salute, and smiled once more, then he walked towards O'Mally, Aubrey wanted to find out what O'Mally
wanted for the wardroom. Walking up to O'Mally, Aubrey placed a hand on his shoulder. O'Mally jumped slightly then looked over
his shoulder. He didn't seem too relieved to see Aubrey.
"I thought you had all ready left, Lieutenant." O'Mally said.
"Actually, not as of yet, I found that I've not asked you what you wished to have for the wardroom."Aubrey said, taking out his
paper and pencil to add to the list."You've been working pretty hard and I didn't want you to miss out on adding something to the
mess. Anything you'd like me to bring back?"
O'Mally grinned, "Actually yes, I do sir." he pulled out a small purse full of money and handed it to Aubrey. "I'd like some truffles,
Irish Whiskey, and get me a couple of geese or more. T'would add some goose eggs to the supply as well." He then added a few
more items of which Aubrey listed down.
Aubrey nodded, taking the purse O'Mally gave him. "Thank you."He said. "I'll be off now, again Lieutenant O'Mally, well done."
Then Aubrey smartly turned on his heel and went to join Thomas on the slight they were taking.
JP between
Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford
Lieutenant Andrew Foxall
and with permission,
Lieutenant Patrick O'Mally
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Linette Geraud
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Posts: 4429
#76
02-06-2010, 10:05 PM
Part I
Not too long after Aubrey approached Lieutenant Carson, they were off to shore. Aubrey was looking forward to this very much
and was all ready feeling in better spirits. Aubrey had all ready made a list of the items he wished to get to make things all the
more comfortable for the long journey ahead.
"Shopping, then a quick meal. Will have to hurry before the shops all close for the night." Aubrey stated to Thomas. "Up to the
task?" he asked with a smile.
The boat got to the shore with out a problem, the men really wanting to get their jobs done looking forward to the reward the
captain had promised.
As he climbed out of the boat, the Marine Lieutenant smiled, "I'm a Marine, I'm up for anything."
Thomas straightened his black hat, which matched the black facings and trim on his red jacket. Standing on the cold dock as a
bone-chilling breeze cut through, Thomas asked Aubrey, "So what are you shopping for anyway?"
"Well, have a list here from both Lt. Foxall as well as Lt. O'Mally. For myself, violin strings, rosin, a spare bow just in case the
other one gets broken. Music, plus bees wax candles, sweetmeats, Several books, a couple of journals, some of the things we
discussed before. I'm even going to be acquiring drawing parchment in order to continue my lessons in art, if it will end up not
looking like stick figures."Aubrey said with a laugh. He pulled his coat close to him adjusting the collar to stave off the tendrils of
wind which played with the exposed part of his neck.
"How about yourself?" he queried of Thomas.
"I don't really know," Thomas replied. "I might pick up a couple journals and books as well, I left most of my collection back at the
family home in Oxfordshire. Beyond that, I suppose we'll see what the merchants are toting today."
As they began to walk away from the dock, Thomas folded his arms behind his back. He rubbed his hands together slowly,
fighting some of the bitter cold of this English winter.

"So you are educating yourself in art," Thomas stated. "What do you like to draw, or paint?"
"I've dabbled in landscapes, seascapes, some portraits, atleast drawing. Painting, its fun trying to work with the pitching of the
ship at sea." Aubrey grinned. He directed them out of the bitter wind into a shop which had supplies for his violin. Purchasing
them, he paused to admire a violin which looked like it was rather good quality. "May I?" he asked the shop keeper, pointing to
the violin.
Thomas stepped out of the chilly wind into the store. He was glad to be indoors. The weather had been seasonably cold, but an
additional chill always seemed to come off the ocean. After a while one got used to it, but it was nice to step onto dry land, into a
warmer store.
Thomas removed his hat as he stepped inside, then rubbed his hands together.
With a grin, he said to Aubrey, "I wouldn't want to try and play any instrument on a day like this, I feel chilled to the bone. It's
amazing how much of a difference dry land makes."
Thomas nodded at the violin and asked in a friendly voice, "Do you have a favorite tune?"
"I have one in mind, Violin Sonata No.1 in C, K.6 by Mozart." Aubrey smiled and began to play, his eyes closing as he gave
himself over to the music, feeling solace come to his soul. Once the piece was finished he handed the violin back to the store
keeper. "Thank you" Aubrey said. "That is a fine instrument." The shop keeper nodded, pleased at the compliment.
Thomas was surprised when Aubrey began to play right there in the store. He grinned widely and took a step back, off to the
side, affording the Lieutenant room to play.
Thomas stood by quietly, listening to the tune and taking it in. He waited until Aubrey finished before offering a single clap of his
hands and saying, "Bravo, well done."
He added, "A fighting sailor, a musician and a painter, you are a man of many talents Mr. Rutherford."
"Tis nothing. Its just something I learned in school, my parent insisted that I got a well rounded education. I'm willing to teach
anyone who desires to learn, Mister Carson."
Thomas smiled, "We'll see, if the Captain is correct, we have a long voyage ahead of us. I'm afraid when there isn't action
Marines like myself have plenty of spare time."
The Marine Officer asked, "Is that the violin for you then?"
"Possibly, it depends how much I have, after the rest of our purchases." Aubrey stated.
"I'm trying to save some coin for the voyage," Thomas replied. "I would like to pick up a few trinkets from wherever we end up.
My father keeps a case full of trinkets and items he purchased from all the places he visited as a Marine. I always wanted a case
of my own."
Thomas asked, "What of your family?"
"My family" Aubrey paused for a moment thinking. " I myself, don't have a wife, but there is my father , mother; my brother Dr.
Percy Rutherford; and my two sisters, Faith and Charity. My father is a merchant man, has his own set of ships, which is where I
got my love for the sea."Aubrey replied.
"Sir do you wish me to save this for you?" the shop keeper asked hoping to have made a sell on the violin.
Aubrey looked at him and nodded. "Yes please. I should have enough for that when I come back this way."
The shopkeeper was quite happy hearing the news and carefully put it away.
Aubrey looked at Thomas, "How about yourself,family besides your father? With a decidedly quick decision Aubrey continued
"Come lets get to the other things rather quickly then to dinner." he said heading out the shop door at a quick pace. Still listening
to Thomas as they walked.
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009

Posts: 4429
#77
02-06-2010, 10:08 PM
Part II
After walking out the shop, the pair continued down the street.
Thomas put his hat back on and said, "My father was a Marine Captain before he lost his leg. He participated in the landings on
Bellisle on the Brittany coast in 1761, a great victory. It's his favorite story actually. Since then he's formed something of a
merchant enterprise. He connects timber cutters, ironworks, and other industries to the shipbuilders in Dover. My mother handles
the company finances out of Oxfordshire. I split my youth between the intellectuals of Oxfordshire and the shipbuilders and ferry
boat men of Dover. A little of two very different worlds."
"I have a younger sister who married just recently. My older brother James is a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy, I've seen him very
little, he left home as a Midshipman years ago," Thomas stated. "My father tried to keep me home a few more years by
convincing me to join the Marines instead."
He added with a smile and a humorous tone, "If nothing else, I like the uniform. No offense to you navy men. But the Crown Red
makes an impression among English ladies."
As if on cue, a young homely looking woman in a thick coat walked past them on the street. Thomas tipped his hat to the woman
in a polite gesture as they crossed paths.
Aubrey chuckled tipping his hat to the woman and giving a bow. "Evening milady." he said, she smiled at both dashing
gentlemen. "In all honesty you and I cut quite the dashing figures enough to turn the ladies heads." Aubrey commented once she
was away from them.
A quick jaunt to where the rabbits and the other various fowls are purchased, Aubrey would get into a bit of haggling with the
shop keeper there, a rather jolly looking man. A price was agreed upon and the deal was made. Next came the cheese and the
wines as well as brandy plus the Irish Whiskey, O' Mally was fond of. A suckling pig, apples in an oak barrel were soon added to
the purchases made.
As the apples were purchased, Thomas said with a distant expression on his face, "It's amazing really."
He explained, "Today we know that carrying fruit of some kind on a ship can help a crew ward off disease, like scurvy. Just
decades ago sailors died by the score of such illnesses every year, and all they needed was some bloody apple or lemon."
"I'm very happy to be living in such modern times," Thomas with an appreciative grin.
Aubrey grinned "I agree with you whole heartedly."
"You will be seeing a great many wonderous things when we get away from England. It is beautiful out there."
Final purchases made, then dinner time. " A spot of ale or a hot toddy to take the chill of the bones." Aubrey said."Or a warm
spiced wine or cider. All is good to take the chill off."
"A warm spiced wine or cider would do my aching fingers a lot of good," Thomas responded with a nod.
A young boy with a dirty nose and horribly run-down looking shoes suddenly walked by carrying a bucket. Thomas stopped the
boy with a shout. The young man reeked of tar, fairly common in sea ports.
"You there, lad," Thomas said. "Where in Portsmouth could two of His Majesty's Officers get a dinner or some warm cider?"
The boy considered the question and replied, "Next street sir, the Briar House, it has a green sign in front."
"What is the Briar House?" Thomas asked.
"It's a restaurant and Inn sir, I sees lots of officers go there," The boy said. "Mr. Ramsey owns it."
Thomas tossed the young boy a shilling.
"Thank you lad," he said. "Run along."
The boy smiled, muttered something and ran off.
Thomas turned to Aubrey, "What do you say Mr. Rutherford, should we invest in the lad's advice?"

"I agree very much, it sounds wonderful, Mr. Carson." Aubrey said with a nod.
The two officers from the HMS Terpsichore changed direction. A horse-drawn carriage passed through the street. Thomas
waited until it was headed away from them before he stepped into the street towards the Briar House. It was easy enough to
spot, with a wooden sign painted green with gold lettering hanging above the street itself. The building was perhaps 3 stories
high with a thick chimney puffing black smoke into the breezy winter air.
When the officers walked inside, they were able to discern the layout. There was a receiving area in the front with coat and hat
racks. Off to the right side was a wrap-around staircase that seemed to lead up to rooms on the upper floors. The lower floor
smelled of hot foods, particularly tomatoes and cheese.
A woman wearing a bonnet and apron appeared and politely said, "Welcome gentlemen, my name is Mrs. Ramsey, would you
like me to take your hat and coat?"
Thomas permitted, removing the red over-coat he wore and his hat.
"Are you interested in a meal?" the woman asked. "I have a some fresh soups today."
Thomas replied, "Lieutenant Rutherford and I would like a table, preferably one by the fireplace."
"Of course sir," the homely looking woman replied. "Where you might be joining us from?"
"The HMS Terpsichore," Thomas replied as they were led to a table.
She led them to a table near the building's fireplace. A thick stack of wood was burning and an occasional bit of ash rolled out of
place while the rest of the wood crackled and burnt. The room was cast in the warm glow of the fireplace, and natural light spilled
in from some frozen windows. The room was at least 10 degrees warmer than the stores they had been frequenting.
Aubrey gave his coat and hat to the woman as well, smiling. "Thank you, Mrs. Ramsey, you do have indeed a fine establishment
here and I'll do well to recommend the Briar House to those I know."
Mrs Ramsey beamed hearing this as word of mouth was always a good way to bring in more business. Aubrey seated himself
down and took a moment to gaze into the dancing flames enjoying the warmth which radiated out from the fire. Mrs Ramsey had
hung the coats up and a somewhat fair looking girl came over to take the orders of the handsome men. She may not be a raving
beauty but her hazel eyes sparkled with life and her lips curved upward showing she had a sense of humor.
"Hello my name is Anna, what would you like for supper? We've got soups, a good hearty mutton stew, with some of my
mother's famous biscuits, or her thick hearty bread." While Anna waited for the men to decide what they wished to eat, a lone
lock of dark hair with a mind of its own escaped from the bun she had it in. Anna quickly brushed the lock back and tucked it
back in.
Aubrey was watching Anna, then smiled. "My dear Anna, a bowl of mutton stew with your mother's bread sounds enticing, a
large mug of spiced wine and if there is a piece of pie to round it off, it would be lovely."
Anna's cheeks turned a bit pink then her attention went to Thomas, he was rather handsome, and she smiled at him. His eyes of
blue; hair a beautiful shade of brown and the sideburns made him look manly.
Thomas smiled at Anna and said, "Anna, a bowl of your best soup would do this Marine a kind year of health. If you could bring
me some spiced cider, and I'll share my companion's interest in a piece of pie. Thank you dear miss."
Anna replied, "Most certainly gentleman, I'll be right back."
She turned and left, leaving the two officers alone. The fireplace nearby made a crackling sound as a burnt and blackened piece
of wood gave away under the flames. The two officers felt the warmth of the fire begin to cut through their coats and warm their
toes.
Thomas rubbed his hands together again and said, "If I ever build a house, I will build a big fireplace like this one into the
foundations. My cold aching bones will appreciate it after my time at sea."
"That does sound lovely, I must agree, that would be a goal for me as well. My father's place has several, it makes things nice
especially when it gets cold. Or I'd just move to India or another place that is warm." He chuckled.
Aubrey gazed into the fire, his mind drifting to things he had seen on his travels, some rather sobering, others rather enchanting.
Aubrey is brought out of his thought when Anna brings the food to them. The aroma, making his mouth water, taking in a deep
breath he said to Anna, "This smells absolutely delicious."
Thomas smiled at his own bowl of soup as it appeared, "Thank you Anna."

As the warm spiced cider appeared, Thomas couldn't help but be absorbed by the strong aroma coming out of the mug. He gave
Anna another smile and a nod before she walked away to see to other patrons.
Thomas picked up the spoon and began to stir at the bowl of soup in front of him.
"I hope that wherever we sail to will prove warm," Thomas stated. "If the Captain is right and we are indeed destined for the
Pacific, that could be quite the adventure. I have read that Japan and China are extremely strange places. Not to mention the
many uncivilized islands in those waters."
Aubrey savoured the last bite of stew, placed the spoon in the empty bowl and dabbed at his lips before commenting. "China is
indeed an exotic place to see. I've had the pleasure of stopping in at Hong Kong. My last assignment before coming back into
the Royal Navy was being on the Arniston an Indiaman. The women, no, not just the women, the people themselves were exotic.
Their language is so unique, poetic. I never had the pleasure of getting to Japan, though its something that I've long wished to
do. I've met some Japanese people, the women looked so exotic and beautiful and so small in comparison to some of our ladies.
Bless our ladies though, the ones who inspire us to come home to. If, you've got a woman to come home to."
Thomas sipped his soup then said, "You've been to Hong Kong? My my, you must have stories. What's it like?"
"The villages are walled and beautiful, they trade mostly in pearls, salt and fishing but it is a thriving community. I had gotten a
pearl necklace at a cost lower that what I'd pay here in town, they were exquisite."Aubrey smiled thinking back. "Don't get me
wrong though its a dangerous place thieves, cutpurses. Kidnappings. I had the fortune to be one of the escorts for a nobleman
who wished to have someone go as a translator for him and his lady. It was rather interesting. I do have tales I could tell you,
and if you wish, I'll regale you with them on our journey to our destination. I can even tell you of the run in we had with the
chinese Pirate called Cai Qian. Pirates are prevalent in those waters even smugglers."
The pie arrived and Aubrey dug into it enjoying his dessert, apple pie with its rich scent of cinnamon and its tender flaky crust
and a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Thomas was eating his own apple pie when he asked, "Is it true that their skin is yellow, and that they average oh...3 feet tall?
An old sailor aboard the HMS Hind used to swear to both accounts."
"Three foot in height." Aubrey laughed, "No they are actually a bit taller than that. they are four foot and above in height." He
motions for Anna to come to the table, and settled the bill for both himself and Thomas.
"Lets brave the weather, get my new violin and catch the slight with our purchases back to the ship, Mister Carson." Aubrey said,
slipping a coin to Anna for a tip, then kissing her hand. "Enjoy your evening milady." giving a bow.
Thomas thanked Anna, and the establishment's owner as they walked out the door.
"Ahh, I miss the fireplace already," The Marine said aloud as he stepped into the bitter cold air. "To your violin then, and then
back to our little floating wooden world."
JP by Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford
&
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson
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Lupe
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Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#78
02-07-2010, 09:26 PM
December twenty-two one thousand seven hundred ninety-seven, two bells in the morning watch (5 am)
The tide of water was slowly working it's way back across the deck when Ruben walked out of the Great Cabin, Master's Mate
Taylor had the watch, he was sitting on the capstan head out of the wet. The morning watch was holy-stoning the deck. Ruben
crossed the deck in quick step and turning at the last moment jumped up into a sitting position on the Capstan beside the
Midshipman.
"Good morning Mister Taylor." Ruben said, "mind if I join you on high ground?"

"Good morning Sir," Taylor answered, "there is room aplenty Sir."
As the men scrubbed the deck around the Officer's perch Ruben looked at his ship, not just looked but really looked, studying it,
he had studied the shear-plan, he knew what the bottom was designed like, he studied the rake of the masts, the size of the
yards.
As the swabbers worked their way past Ruben smiled, "it looks to be a fine morning don't it."
"Yes Sir." Taylor answered. Ruben sighed, no mater what he said the young man would agree with him. The hazard of being
Captain, Ruben toyed with the idea of using nonsense phrases to make the boy see that he didn't have to agree to everything,
but gave up the idea even before it was fully formed.
As the deck was flogged dry Ruben decided to give it up and slid off the capstan, "carry on" he said as he headed for his cabin,
Ruben wondered if there was any coffee yet.
He stopped at the door turned back to Taylor, "When Lieutenant Rutherford comes on deck tell him I would like a word with him,
my compliments of course." He half turned then turned back, "Lieutenants Foxall and Carson too."
"Aye, aye Sir, do you wish me to pass the word for them?" Taylor asked.
"No, when ever they get on deck will be fine." Ruben said then walked into the Great Cabin in search of coffee.
<tag>
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Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#79
02-08-2010, 09:53 AM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson awoke and instantly wished he hadn't.
As he sat up, he felt a severe kink in his neck that made him grit his teeth and fiercely wince.
Groaning slightly, he shifted his body and planted his bare feet on the wooden floor. Beneath his toes he could feel a few grains
of sand, he could also feel the creases between deck planking.
The Marine Officer sat there a moment, massaging his neck and shoulders and slowly shifting his head within the limits of what
his body would let him.
The air in the tiny enclosed space was still, but cold. As soon as his neck began to improve he found his pants and shoes and
put them on. Thomas sat there a moment, slowly waking up, before he put on his shirt and jacket. He spent some time buttoning
the gold buttons that ran up and down the front of the jacket, connecting the black facings together.
As he did this, he contemplated the day ahead. There were some small tasks to be done, and he was organizing and planning
some eventual training for the sailors in musket-use. That would likely have to wait until they were under sail, but there was
much to do in preparation. He needed to decide what knowledge and tactics to focus on. He couldn't expect the sailors to
become soldiers of foot in a few lessons, he had to decide what to focus on. It had been rattling around his mind for days now.
Finally Lieutenant Carson put on his belt, grabbed his hat and left the small cabin.
He headed for the deck, to get a morning report from the on-duty Marine.
As Thomas stepped onto the deck, he first scanned the sky and the shoreline. He looked for evidence of snow or falling ice that
may have come down from the heavens the previous night. He was also looking at the flags, assessing the wind and the clouds.
Thomas was no expert sailor, but he had spent enough time at sea to get a sense of how the weather worked.
Still, his inconclusive conclusion was merely that it would be another cold english day, he couldn't be more specific than that.
Thomas scanned the deck from the ship's waist, then turned and walked towards the bell, where a Marine was already snapping
to attention.
"Good morning sir," The relatively young, clean-shaven Corporal stated in a voice laden with a scottish accent.
"Good morning Corporal, McGlothlin isn't it?" Thomas asked.

"Ay sir," The Marine said. "McGlothlin it is sir."
"Good good, watch report Corporal McGlothlin," Thomas asked.
"Nothing to report sir, it's been quiet in the harbor and on-deck," McGlothlin stated.
Thomas nodded, "Thank you Corporal."
The man saluted again and Thomas returned it before heading for the Quarterdeck. Thomas could look to his Marines for reports
on the security situation, but he would look to the Officer of the Watch for a more thorough report.
Thomas removed his hat and saluted the Quarterdeck before stepping onto the aft section of the ship.
Thomas didn't recognize the young man standing there, so he offered, "Good morning."
The man replied, "Good morning sir, it's Taylor sir, Master's Mate."
"Mr. Taylor, a pleasure making your acquaintance, I'm Lieutenant Carson of His Majesty's Marines," Thomas said. "I was hoping
you could give me a report of the Watch."
"Nothing to report sir, a quiet night, we are 2 bells in the morning watch," Taylor said. "The Captain asked me to inform you that
he'd like you to join him in the Great Cabin."
That turned Thomas's said, "I don't suppose you know why?"
"No sir," Mr. Taylor replied. "Just that he wanted you, Mr. Rutherford and Mr. Foxall to join him when you each came on deck."
"I see, thank you Mr. Taylor," Thomas said. "Carry on."
"Ay sir."
Thomas walked back off the Quarterdeck again. He stepped into the Great Cabin and removed his hat, tucking it under his left
arm.
"Captain," He said as he came to the position of Attention just inside the threshold of the Great Cabin door. "Reporting as
instructed by the Officer of the Watch."
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Lupe
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Posts: 9349
#80
02-08-2010, 01:59 PM
Thomas walked back off the Quarterdeck again. He stepped into the Great Cabin and removed his hat, tucking it under his left
arm.
"Captain," He said as he came to the position of Attention just inside the threshold of the Great Cabin door. "Reporting as
instructed by the Officer of the Watch."
Captain Williams was just sitting down in the Great Cabin. He gestured to Thomas to enter and sit. "Have a seat on that locker
over there, I got a little job for you."
He grinned, "do you drink coffee in the morning, it is almost ready, I can smell it brewing. Have a cup with me."
Jon Allen
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#81
02-08-2010, 09:51 PM
"Thank you Captain," Thomas replied as he sat down on the locker. He felt and heart it creak as his weight settled onto it.

He sat his hat beside him and reached with both hands for the cup of steaming coffee. It was quiet warm to the touch and
Thomas slowly adjusted his grip on the handle with his right hand and settled the cup on the palm of his left hand to make it
more comfortable.
"Mr. Taylor said you wanted to speak to some of the other Lieutenants as well sir, is this a meeting?" Thomas asked.
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Linette Geraud
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#82
02-08-2010, 10:05 PM
Aubrey woke up to the gentle pinging of the miniature clock in his quarters.From the dim light coming in through the porthole and
the sound of the activity on deck, the day had all ready started. Aubrey quickly got dressed, making certain his attire was
immaculate and his hair caught back with a ribbon his lady love, Priscilla, had given him. Ah sweet Priscilla, the thought of her
made Aubrey's heart sing. A quick kiss blown to her miniature portrait he had hung on the wall,Aubrey was ready for the next
step in getting ready for the voyage.
He walked into the wardroom where there wasn't anyone there and headed to the deck above. He caught the scent of fresh
brewed coffee at the same time being hailed by Master's Mate Taylor.
"Good morning Lieutenant Rutherford, the Captain would like a word with you, with his compliments."
"Indeed it is a good morning and thank you Mister Taylor for the information." Aubrey answered.
The air was brisk and he noted the vapors from the freshly scrubbed deck, rising towards the sky. A quick exhale from his mouth
provided a small cloud, which joined the tendrils then dissapated into the air. He grinned, it was something he liked to do even
when a boy, making a cloud from his own warm breath.
Aubrey nodded towards Taylor and soon joined the Captain and Thomas in the Great Cabin. "Good morning Captain Williams,
Lieutenant Carson. Lovely day isn't it?" His hat off, tucked under his arm he waited until the Captain motioned him in.
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Lupe
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#83
02-09-2010, 06:47 AM
"Thank you Captain," Thomas replied as he sat down on the locker. He felt and heart it creak as his weight settled onto it.
He sat his hat beside him and reached with both hands for the cup of steaming coffee. It was quiet warm to the touch and
Thomas slowly adjusted his grip on the handle with his right hand and settled the cup on the palm of his left hand to make it
more comfortable.
"Mr. Taylor said you wanted to speak to some of the other Lieutenants as well sir, is this a meeting?" Thomas asked.
Aubrey joined the Captain and Thomas in the Great Cabin. "Good morning Captain Williams, Lieutenant Carson. Lovely day isn't
it?" His hat off, tucked under his arm he waited until the Captain motioned him in.
Ruben looked up at his First Lieutenant, "Good Morning to you, join us for a cup of coffee." He gestured to Lieutenant Carson, "I
was just about to explain to Mister Carson what he was going to be doing this morning. I think we all have a very hard day of
work ahead."
Taking a sip of his still to hot coffee Ruben looked over Thomas, "I have a joint operation for you and Mister Foxall, I want a pair
of limbers and field carriages for our brass nines, we don't need the animals but I want the machines. The two of you will get
them and bring them to the ship." He nodded at Aubery, "I am sure with the wheels taken off they can be stored in an out of the
way corner."

<tag>
Last edited by Lupe; 02-10-2010, 04:16 PM. Reason: because the Captain don't know nothing about land fighting :p
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Linette Geraud
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#84
02-10-2010, 02:15 PM
"Indeed they can and will be. The wheels not on will certainly make it to where they won't slide during the sea voyage." Aubrey
said, taking a seat and getting a most welcomed cup of coffee.
He takes in the scent, enjoying the feel of the warmth in his hands then took an exploratory sip of the coffee. It was still abit hot
to drink, but he held it as he contemplated the Captain and Thomas. "What do you have in mind for the day, Captain? The men
have certainly been working their hearts out, and the Terpsichore seems to be shaping up."
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#85
02-10-2010, 02:28 PM
"Powder today, and shot." Ruben said, "nothing like the chance of being blown to kingdom come to make the day go by," he said
sagely. "We have the trifling bit that the Navy Office says we should have and I have bought much more myself." with a bit of
smugness.
"Mister Foxall will be able to fling twelve pound balls into the sea to his heart's content." Then he looked at Thomas, "and I have
not forgotten about you, musket balls, and rifle powder too, will be coming aboard today. Enough for your Jollies to wear the
barrels off their muskets."
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Ragsdale
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#86
02-10-2010, 02:33 PM
Andrew awoke with a start. Did he just hear the third bell or had he imagined it? He stood up in his meager sanctuary and looked
in the mirror hanging from the thin side walls. Although cramped and rather spartan, his present quarters were a world apart from
the hammock he had known as a midshipman. The cot was much more comfortable to him and after the long day before, he
passed out nearly immediately. Slipping on his overcoat and fastening his belt he made ready to head up on deck and see what
tasks lay before.
The air was chilly, but crisp and whatever drowsiness he had left vanished instantly. Taking a deep breath, Andrew headed
towards the Quarterdeck.
"Good morning, Mr. Foxall, sir," said the young midshipman on duty.
"Good morning, Mr. ah..."
"Taylor, sir. Midshipman Taylor."
"Mr. Taylor, of course. My apologies."
"No need sir, we're all learning new faces. The Captain would like to see you as soon as possible. The other lieutenants have
already gone down below," said Midshipman Taylor.

Andrew was filled with instant dread. It would not look good showing up late to a meet of the senior officers. He quickly
murmured something unintelligble to the young Taylor and head below deck to the Captains quarters. Upon reaching the door,
he straightened his coat and rapped on the wood. When he heard permission from the other side, Andrew slowly pushed the
door open and stepped into the room.
"Lef'tenant Foxall reporting as ordered, sir. My apologies for the late arrival. It won't happen again."
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Lupe
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#87
02-10-2010, 03:08 PM
"Ah, Mister Foxall, we were just talking about you, I imagine that was what brought you here, your ears ringing I suppose."
Ruben said with a very large grin. "Have some coffee, you look as if you could use it."
"I was just telling Lieutenants Rutherford and Carson that I am going to work you to the bone getting our gun crews down to
three broadsides in five minutes with accuracy." Captain Williams said, "and the only way I know how to do that is buy enough
extra powder and shot for the men to get use to doing it."
Then a different kind of smile crept across his face, "but I got a special job for you today. I need you to work with Lieutenant
Carson to get and bring in two limbers and field carriages for our brass long nines. When they are on the ship I want you to fit a
gun on at least one of them to make sure of it, before it is broke down and stowed."
Last edited by Lupe; 02-10-2010, 04:15 PM.
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Ragsdale
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#88
02-10-2010, 03:22 PM
"Thank you, sir. Coffee would be most appreciated."
Andrew grabbed a mug and filled with with the steaming, black brew. He was thankful that he had the cup to hide the
embarassment on his face.
Andrew stood in the corner of the room. It was one of the largest rooms on the ship, but still crowded with four people in it. He
liked the thought of extra gunnery practice.
"Thank you sir. I will make sure the main deck guns make that quota. I might even try to push them harder than that."
He tried to hide his astonishment, but failed when he heard the Captain wanted limbers and caissons for the guns.
"Limbers, sir? Are you expecting action on land?
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Lupe
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#89
02-10-2010, 04:40 PM
"I don't expect anything at this point. But I have been part of a party that had to toil to drag a ship's gun across a field once, and
since we are sailing into the unknown I want our people to be ready for what ever comes to us." Ruben explained, "I will even try
to let your gun crew practice with it once we are out somewhere the Army chaps won't be watching and laughing at us."
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Jon Allen
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#90
02-10-2010, 06:40 PM
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson asked, "Due pardon my ignorance chaps, sir, but where on Earth do we purchase limbers
and caissons? Is this something we're likely to find for sale in Portsmouth?"
Thomas truly didn't know, the largest gun under his charge was a swivel. He suddenly wished he had spent more time by the
Gun Captains aboard the Hind.
That said, Thomas liked the idea. Sailing so far from home, it wasn't unheard of to need that kind of firepower brought from a
ship to be utilized on land. Having the equipment aboard to do constituted common sense in Thomas's mind, especially if they
had the room for it aboard the Terpsichore.
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Dorella Allerod
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#91
02-10-2010, 06:52 PM
The Steward was preparing the breakfast dishes but he knew the Captain and his Lieutenants would need more coffee, so he
called his mate. "Burke, make some more coffee and take it to the Great Cabin for the Captain."
"Aye Sir" Burke began clumbsily to grind the coffee beans. This was the first time he was making coffee, it had always been
served to him on a silver tray. He hoped he was doing it right.
Once the coffee was brewed he tried to put on a brave face, can't have the Captain knowing I don't know what I am doing.
The Steward told him, "hurry it up, and don't forget to bring the empty pot back, we only have the two and it will be watch and
watch as it is."
Burke gave a small jump, since he had been concentrating so hard the Steward had startled him. "Yes Sir" he said as he
steadied the tray and made his way to the Great Cabin.
Burke gave a swallow and told himself 'well here it goes.'
He remembered how the servants did it at home, and did his best to mimic it. Placing the new tray and picking up the old with
the empty coffee pot on it.
He held his head down as he carried out the empty pot and tray, hoping the coffee would be good.
He made his way back and asked the Steward, "what shall I do with this tray and pot?"
"Are you daft? Wash it, wash it and dry it so that when the other one is empty we can make them more, even if those
Lieutenants don't stay and drink all morning like camels the Captain will want a fresh pot with breakfast." The Steward shook his
head and made a rather rude gesture toward the Great Cabin and the Lieutenants that used his Cabin Stores.
Burke gave another jump, he wasn't use to being talked to in such a way. He wasn't sure he was liking this much. The gesture
the Steward had made caused him to think and wonder if his servants had ever hated him that much. He hoped not, he had
always tried to be nice. He began washing the coffee pot and wondered if he had made a mistake altogether.
JP by
Steward (NPC played by Lupe)
and
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#92
02-10-2010, 07:31 PM
Williams nodded at the young lad that had brought more coffee.
Once the Steward's mate left the room Ruben took the new pot and poured himself a new cup of coffee. It was to hot to drink.
Turning to Thomas he smiled, "that is of course where you come in. First you check the ordinance wharf but I don't think you will
find what you need there, so after that you will talk to the gentlemen in the Artillery."
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Jon Allen
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#93
02-10-2010, 08:56 PM
Thomas shifted slightly, letting the lad with the coffee pass by him in the confines of the Great Cabin.
"I see sir," Thomas replied. "By what method of procurement are we using sir? Is this a requisition using the authority of your
signature, a purchase or some kind of barter sir?"
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Lupe
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#94
02-10-2010, 09:06 PM
"Oh a requisition of course." Ruben nodded, "I will have a letter of authorization written up for you and signed."
He sipped his coffee and took some grains of coffee grounds off his tongue.
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Jon Allen
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#95
02-12-2010, 08:48 AM
Lupe watched the lad who delivered the coffee leave, then asked, "I don't recognize that man, did you bring aboard a new
Steward Captain?"
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Lupe
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#96
02-12-2010, 08:48 AM
Captain Williams looked from one Lieutenant to the other, then with a clap of his hands said, "It's settled, you will take a party of
sailors," nodding at Foxall, "and you a party of Marines," nodding at Carson, "if you can manage it see if any of your Marines
have field artillery experience, the less the army can laugh at us about the better I like it."
He stood up, making it clear that the interview was over, "Mister Foxall, Mister Carson, a very good morning to both of you but I
suggest you get a hot breakfast in you since we will be loading powder today and the fires will all be dowsed. I will make sure the
papers are in order and signed by the time your ready to depart and the Blue Cutter will be along side. Mister Rutherford, if you
would stay for just a bit longer."

As he showed his two Lieutenants out he told the sentry, "Pass the word for Midshipman Dunlahm" Then walked back into the
Great Cabin.
[Midshipman's Berth]
A Master's Mate grabbed the ropes holding Sam's hammock and shook them, shaking the whole hammock with Sam in it. "The
Captain Pass the Word to Midshipman Dunlahm" he shook it more, "wake up, you have to report to the Captain."
<tags>
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Jon Allen
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#97
02-12-2010, 02:58 PM
Grabbing his hat, Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson stood up and said, "Thank you sir, we will see to our duties."
Following Lieutenant Foxall out, Thomas stepped into the open air of the ship's deck just forward of the Quarterdeck.
Placing his hat back on his head, Thomas turned to Foxall and said, "I suggest we take the Captain up on his advice, get some
breakfast. I'm going to pass the word on for five of my Marines to make ready to go ashore."
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Linette Geraud
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#98
02-12-2010, 05:30 PM
Aubrey had been listening to the captain's discussion with the other two lieutenants contented to stay quiet and enjoying his
coffee. He noted that there was a new crew member, an stewards mate from what he could tell. Ah yes starting out young, he
nodded towards the young man in greeting, as Burke took the now empty pot and replaced it with another one.
The lad seemed rather edgy, Aubrey thought, must certainly be his first time onboard. Aubrey smiled, he hoped the lad would
turn out to be able to handle the storms which come about on the sea.
Still quiet, Aubrey watched as the Captain walked Thomas and Andrew out the door then walked back in Staying in the Great
Room as the Captain requested. Once the Captain returned, Aubrey had just poured himself another cup of coffee.
"This is excellent coffee, Captain." Aubrey stated after taking a sip. He looked at Ruben all ready figuring out when the Captain
had something on his mind.
Once the Captain sat down Aubrey did so as well then asked,"What is going through your mind, Captain, I am rather intrigued,
and it does seem you are getting us rather prepared for anything."
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Lupe
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#99
02-12-2010, 06:30 PM
"That is what is going through my mind. We don't know what we are going to do. Hunt Whalers in the Pacific, hunt pirates,
defend our own merchantmen from the French? I don't know, and there is the chance that Whitehall has given us this kind of
orders to stock up in order to confuse the enemy and then send us down to the far end of the Med. I just don't know." Ruben
didn't sit back down but paced up and down the large cabin past the twelve pound cannon from the windows that crossed the
whole 30 foot back of the cabin to the bulkhead that separated his dinning cabin from the Great Cabin. "Quite honestly I don't
know what to prepare for."
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Linette Geraud
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#100
02-12-2010, 07:28 PM
Aubrey watched the captain, took another sip of coffee, and contemplated what the Captain just said, calmly he set the coffee
down and said,
"Go with your gut instincts, Captain. If you feel it necessary for something to be placed onboard do so. I have seen some rather
ingenious things happen at sea and necessity normally is the mother of all invention. All you can do is try to prepare as best you
can and then trust that you will be ready for what may come up."
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Lupe
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#101
02-12-2010, 10:54 PM
"I guess I have to, that's all I have. Where is that wretched boy?" Ruben asked the world in general.
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Mevynn
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#102
02-13-2010, 07:41 AM
"Hey!!!" Sam shouted from the sudden movement, the next moment he came in hard contact with the floorboards as he fell out
of the hammock. With an angry look he stood up but forgot the hammock above his head and got entangled in it.
'Captain, captain', Sam thought, 'can't a boy get some sleep around here,' while he swung with his hands and arms to get free
again.
Finally free from the hammock and yawning from awaking so rudely he made a step forward, grabbed his hat that had fallen on
the ground and followed the Master's Mate back to the deck while muttering.
The chill morning wind made him put on his hat fast as he continued into the direction the Master's Mate had shown him.
In front of the Captain Quarter's door, he made the effort to straighten his cloths, made sure his hat was correctly on his head,
knocked on the door and walked in.
"Good morning, you wanted to see me, mon... Captain." Sam then noticed the XO was also there. "And a good morning to you
too Monsieur Rutherford."
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Lupe
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#103
02-13-2010, 10:22 AM
"Good Morning to you Mister Dunlahm, slept well?" Ruben said, the question really was not to be answered and he carried on.
"Today we will be attempting to no blow ourselves to kingdom come, so we will put out all the fires and lamps on the ship before
bringing in gun powder. Have you ever worked in the dark? So, we need to light the holds up." Ruben said, then asked, "Sam, do
you have any ideas on how we can do that?"
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Mevynn

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#104
02-13-2010, 02:05 PM
Sam tried to hold back another yawn, "Yes I slept well, mon Captain."
He looked towards Mister Rutherford, but no help was coming from that direction. "Open all the hatches, sir?"
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Lupe
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#105
02-13-2010, 02:49 PM
"Good idea, Mister Rutherford, be sure to do that when we are taking in powder." Ruben commented, then looked Sam over,
"are you ready for your first real job on the Terpsichore?"
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Mevynn
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#106
02-14-2010, 04:37 AM
Sam jumped into attention, or at least a similar like position. "Yes, sir, please, sir, anything sir."
Wondering in the mean time if he would be allowed to handle the barrels with gunpowder.
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Lupe
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#107
02-14-2010, 08:36 AM
Ruben stepped to the center of the room where the skylight gave him that little bit more head room that he needed to stand
really straight up, he cleared his throat and looked Sam in the eye.
"Sir, You are hereby required and directed to go to the armorer and, with my compliments, get from him six pieces of hull copper,
each being two foot by two foot. Then you are to proceed to the Captain's Steward, or Steward's Mate and get them to show you
how to polish said copper to the same shine as a steel mirror with chalk dust. Once that is complete you are to pick a company
of six ships boys, willing and requiring the boys to behave themselves in their various Employments with all due Respect and
Obedience to you, their leader. You are to position them, and regularly reposition them with two on the deck at the hatchway and
the rest further down all the way to the hold, using the copper sheets to reflect sunlight deep into the holds where the men are
working. You are not to be a holder of one of the mirrors but to continue to go among your people making sure they are doing
their job correctly."
Ruben almost smiled at this last part, "Hereof neither you nor any of yours may fail as you will answer the contrary at your Peril.
And for so doing this shall be your Order."
"Now young man, in the Navy you must understand, when there is a favorable wind, you must take it, for the sea is a fickle
mistress and she may not give you the wind you need later, time and tide wait for no man. Gulp down a hot breakfast and get to
work, you have a mort of work to do before the men do, because you have to have your mirrors ready before the powder barge
gets here. Dismissed."
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Linette Geraud
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#108
02-14-2010, 11:16 AM
Aubrey had been thinking as to the question the Captain had asked of Sam, just how to bring in the light to the hold. He had
been thinking of mirrors or something with a reflective surface. Hearing the Captain's statement of bringing in light to the hold
Aubrey grinned, it was a well founded, scientific plausible move. This was definitely indicating more and more, that sailing under
the command of Captain Ruben Williams this was going to be quite the tale to tell and write about.
Aubrey clapped his hands together in his delight. "Bravo Captain, that is an idea worthy of the great scientists of our time. It is
brilliant, I feel even more honored serving under your command."
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#109
02-14-2010, 02:30 PM
"Well..." Ruben smiled, "I have gotten it from the Archaeologists in my youth. When I was a Midshipman, a squeaker like Sam
here, I was in Egypt with the HMS Maidstone, twenty-eight, one of my days on shore I attended the opening of an ancient
chamber. They used steel mirrors to bring light into the room, it impressed me how much brighter it was then torches or
lanterns."
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Mevynn
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#110
02-15-2010, 02:04 PM
When Sam heard he would have to clean the six pieces of copper, the disappointment could be seen on his face, but as the
Captain continued and mentioned that Sam would be assembling his own company and be their leader, a broad smile showed
on his face instead.
"Six pieces of copper, six ships boys, holding up the sheets to reflect the sunlight into the holds. Yes, Sir, understood Sir. Oh and
a hot breakfast. Yes, Mon Captain."
"I'll get right to it Captain, Monsieur Rutherford," he finished and gave a half salute as he turned and left the Captain's quarters,
exciting to accomplish his first assignment.
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#111
02-15-2010, 04:18 PM
"You had better go to Aubrey, or you won't get any hot Burgoo." Ruben said, "besides, as soon as I have written out my
requisition form for the gun carriage I am going to eat my breakfast too."
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Linette Geraud
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#112

02-15-2010, 11:33 PM
Aubrey nodded towards Ruben, "Aye Captain, and enjoy your breakfast." saluting before heading out to get something warm to
eat.
Aubrey took it upon himself to go to the galley to get something to eat, stopping to talk to the steward and his mate, Burke
"Steward,that was rather good coffee." he said, "My compliments on it. I'm also impressed by the food you've served as well, it
has been rather delicious. I see you have an assistant,he didn't spill one drop when delivering the coffee." Aubrey smiled.
Hearing his own stomach rumble at the scent of the food being cooked for the Captain, Aubrey excused himself to get his own
food.
<tags>
Last edited by Linette Geraud; 02-16-2010, 04:44 PM.
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Mevynn
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#113
02-19-2010, 11:41 AM
Breakfast, that was the only thing on his mind right now. He ended up below deck but had taken the wrong turn somewhere.
Sam took in everything he saw, eager to learn the layout of the ship and after a while he found the galley with the stove burning
hot. He looked at the person before him and just did exactly what the other man was doing. Sam took a bowl and filled it, taken
the captain's advice, completely with the porridge that was still on the stove. He also grabbed a dry biscuit or two and a spoon
and found himself a place close to the stove. Dipping the biscuit in the burgoo he digged in to his breakfast while listening to the
men around him talking.
When finished he spotted another boy about his age who also had finished and again he copied what the other one was doing,
putting the spoon in the bowl and placing it in a tub in a corner. Quickly he followed the other boy and started a conversation. A
few moments later he knew the boy's name was Connor and he was only a few months younger than Sam. When Sam heard
that Connor had already served on a ship before, he offered Connor to be the first into his team. Though Sam started to doubt
about the decision he had made when Connor started laughing when Sam suggested to go back to the docks to go to the
armourer to fetch the six pieces of hull copper the Captain wanted.
Connor couldn't stop laughing and the tears where flowing over his cheeks, yet when he saw the disappointed look on the face
from his new made friend, he finally settled down and explained, "There's an armorer onboard the ship, I'm sure he has some
copper to spare to help with the captain's plan. If the ship goes out for a long voyage, it needs an armorer on its own to fix
things."
"Oh," was the only thing Sam could say and followed Connor's directions on where to find the armorer. Some time later he
struggled with six pieces of hull copper with the exact measurements the captain had asked for and headed towards the
Captain's quarters again, hoping he would find the captain's steward there somewhere.
< tags Burke >
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Jon Allen
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#114
02-22-2010, 07:24 PM
A warm breakfast left pleasant odors in Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson's mind and a warm sensation in his stomach as he
left the wardroom with Lieutenant Foxall.
As they stepped onto the deck, both Lieutenants could see a group of sailors working to launch a small boat, a wooden cutter.
Standing by the main mast in thick jackets and hats, was the group of sailors and marines selected to go ashore. There were 5
marines visible, all wearing their red uniforms with black facings and hats. One was noticeably older than the others with thick
sideburns.

"A cold morning for heavy loading," Thomas noted aloud to Lieutenant Foxall. "Best we get to it then."
The marine with the sideburns approached and saluted.
"Ah, Lieutenant Foxall, this is Colour Sergeant Bourne," Thomas said. "He is my second in command of the marines, and would
seem to be the only man in my detachment who has dealt with anything heavier than a swivel gun."
"Yes sir," Bourne replied, still standing at attention. "I've had the rare occasion to take a gun to shore, fire it, and return the
cannon to the ship sir."
"I'm hoping he'll prove useful," Thomas added to Foxall. "He hasn't let me down yet."
Breakfast had not set well with Andrew and he was doing his best to maintain composure in front of the crew. Unfortunately,
Foxall was focusing so intently on his queasy stomach that he barely noticed what Lt. Carson was saying.
"I'm sorry, Lt. Carson. I hope you will forgive me, but something I ate this morning is not sitting well with me. What were you
saying?"
After the marine officer repeated himself, Andrew nodded towards the sergeant.
"A pleasure making your acquaintance, Sgt. Bourne. I'm sure you will be very helpful indeed. Mr. Wells should proof useful as
well. He tells me he served briefly in America with the Royal Irish Artillery."
Thinking of the petty officer made him look at the detachment he has selected to go on this excursion. It was Well's entire
division of eight sailors plus one of the midshipmen that would serve under him, Tarleton Harris. His parents were loyalist
Americans and had named him after the hero of Waxhaw Creek, Banastre Tarleton.
"Mr. Harris, is the cutter ready?"
"Yes sir," replied the young midshipman.
Turning to Carson, Andrew asked, "Shall we sir?"
Thomas replied, "Of course, Colour Sergeant Bourne get the men into the boat."
The Colour Sergeant turned and began barking orders to the 4 other marines standing on-deck by the rail.
The boat was lowered into the water. Then one at a time the men and the two officers climbed into it.
Picking up the oars, the men began to row at the command of one of the sailors. This left Andrew and Thomas to sit alone in
their thoughts. An icy wind swept over the water's surface and struck the boat. Thomas felt his nose and cheek go numb.
"Mr. Foxall," Thomas said. "I'll be taking your lead on this. As far as I'm concerned you are in charge of our little expedition..sir."
Thomas smiled.
Andrew looked at the marine officer. Although only a few years his senior, he felt as if Lt. Carson was the more experienced of
the two. In his mind Andrew knew that it wasn't true, but he still felt differently for some reason.
"Please, call me Andrew. And if you insist, I guess it is my duty to oblige."
Lt. Foxall smiled back. Andrew watched the sailors dip the oars in and out of the salty water. As the cutter smoothly covered the
distance between the Terpsichore and the docks, he studied each of the sailors under his charge. It was clear that Wells was the
most seasoned of the sailors. Indeed, he looked to be the oldest man on this expedition save for perhaps Sgt. Bourne. Neither
man would Andrew like to have faced in a fight, however. Although older, they possessed a strength that could only be gained
from many years of hard labor. The rest of the sailors in the party looked fairly raw with one or two other old salts thrown into the
mix.
Andrew's eyes next fell upon Midshipman Harris. He was young, but already older than Andrew was when he had first gone to
sea. From what little contact he had with his subaltern, he had determined he approved of Tarleton Harris. Andrew had little
doubt that he would do his duty and serve the Terpsichore proudly.
As the small boat pulled alongside the docks, the sailors instinctively raised their oars out of the water and straight into the air.
Andrew climbed out of the cutter and stood on the dock waiting for the others to disembark and for the craft to be tied down.
"Mr. Wells, leave two men here to watch the boat, the rest will come with us. Now, as the Captain said, we're not likely to find
what we are looking for at the ordinance wharf, but we'll check there first. Mr. Harris..."
"Sir?"

"Have you had a chance to meet our illustrious marine officer?"
"No sir, I haven't had the opportunity yet."
"Well then," replied Andrew, "allow me to introduce you. Lt. Carson, this is Midshipman Tarleton Harris. Mr. Harris meet
Lef'tenant Thomas Carson of his Majesty's Royal Marines."
Lieutenant Thomas Carson stood smartly upon the dock, adjusting his hat.
"Mr. Harris, a pleasure," Thomas said.
"Pleasure to meet you sir," said the young midshipman.
"Good. Now that that is out of the way, I have an assignment for you. I do not think we'll find what we are looking for at the
Ordinance Wharf. Therefore, I want you to find where the army is encamped and report back to me."
"Aye sir. Should I find you at the Ordinance Wharf."
"Well, go there certainly. If Lt. Carson and I are not there, they will know where we are headed," answered Foxall.
"To the Wharf then," Thomas said. "Colour Sergeant Bourne, form the lads into line."
The small detail of Marines, four of them, fell into a single file. Colour Sergeant Bourne stood off to their left.
"Follow us Colour Sergeant," Thomas said.
The group headed off away from the docks and the smell of the sea onto dry land. The Marines marched along quietly, while the
other sailors followed more loosely.
Ahead of the pack were the two officers walking side-by-side.
Portsmouth was spread out ahead of then. A few lanes of buildings connected by cobblestone streets. Most of the chimneys
were alive and pushing black smoke into the winter air.
As they stepped along, their feet smashed small crusts of ice on the cobblestone that crunched underfoot. At one point Thomas
slipped slightly and the man swore softly as he trudged on.
"Damnable ice," the red dressed Marine said to Andrew. "I've had enough of this winter already, I look forward to spring."
"You and I both," replied Andrew. "I'll be glad when the Terpsichore reaches warmer climes.
The streets they passed had a few english souls walking about, all thickly dressed and bundled up. Most gave the Marines and
sailors a wide berth but a couple tipped their hats or stood and watched as the group passed. There was a thick chill in the air,
and every breath came out of one's mouth like a puff of white smoke.
The group passed a fishing vessel in the middle of unloading. A large net was being heaved onto the dock where a couple
wagons waited with anxious horses. The smell of fish was in the air. Shortly after that the smell changed again to tar as they
passed a small ship that was being caulked. Tar covered rope ends were being pressed between her deck planks to make the
ship water tight. The smell and smoke of hot tar drifted past in a brief breeze that flew in from the harbor's glassy surface.
Up ahead the Ordinance Wharf came into view. From outside the gate, the Ordinance Wharf did not look like much. Certainly not
one of the most important ammunition depots for the Royal Navy that is was. Two long clapboard buildings painted white flanked
a central lane that led out to the docks of the wharf. A red brick building sat just inside the gate. Andrew knew from a previous
trip to the the wharf that the building housed the administration of the supply depot. A single marine stood guard at the gate. As
Thomas and Andrew approached he came to crisp attention.
"Almost sharp enough to be one of yours, eh Lt. Carson?" asked Foxall.
Andrew turned to his gun captain. "Mr. Wells, stay here and wait for our return."
"Aye sir. Begging your pardon sir, but I noticed a small establishment across the way and I was wondering if the boys could
quench their thirst?"
"I don't see why not, but mind you, Mr. Wells, if I see one man tipsy when I return, they'd sooner face Lucifer than face me,"
responded the Terpsichore's third lieutenant.
"No sir, I'll make sure of it. Thank you sir."

Andrew and the marine officer approached the guard at the gate and showed the captain's requisition order. As he proceeded
through the gate, Andrew wondered who was overseeing the Ordinance Wharf these days. His last trip to the depot, an aging
lieutenant named Humphreys was in charge. Foxall couldn't remember much else about him save for his bushy sidewhiskers
and jovial disposition. Andrew led Thomas towards the administration building. It looked the same as he last saw it two years
previous. There was an extra layer of soot and the usual wear and tear, but otherwise unchanged from his memory. Opening the
door, Foxall took his hat off and tucked it under his arm. Immediately inside sat a portly man with bushy facial between a wide,
oak desk.
"Mr. Foxall! Pardon me, Lt. Foxall!" exclaimed the seated man.
"Lt. Humphreys?" Andrew couldn't believe the man was still here and he had remembered his name after two years.
"I confess, it's me! Come in, come in."
"Exuse sir, but how do you remember who I am?"
"What else am I going to do? I seem resigned to this post and so I have nothing to do except meet the officers that come through
here. Please have a seat, you and Lt..."
"I beg your pardon, sir. Please allow me to introduce you to Lt. Thomas Carson of the Terpsichore."
Thomas removed his hat and smiled at the old Lieutenant. He bowed politely before stepping deeper into the Wharf.
"I am pleased to make your acquaintance, lieutenant. Now, what can I do for you gentlemen? Um, would you care for some tea?
I was just about to have my orderly bring me a cup."
"I would appreciate a cup of tea on this cold day. Thank you sir."
"As would I," replied Thomas as he rubbed his hands together gingerly
The orderly brought in three sets of porcelain cups and saucers, a porcelain tea pot, and two smaller vessels containing sugar
and cream on a silver platter. After serving each of the officers, the orderly stepped to a position against the wall.
"Now, what can I do for you gentlemen?" asked the Ordinance chief.
"We are in need of field carriages for our long nines."
The aging lieutenant let out a laugh from deep in his belly. "You two do realize that I'm an Ordinance officer for the Royal Navy,
don't you? Shouldn't you be asking the army for field carriages?"
"I agree it is a rather strange request and we are planning on contacting the army, but we thought we would ask here first."
"Well, I do thank you for the distraction from the humdrum work here, but unfortunately, I won't be able to be of assistance."
"I thought the odds unlikely, but it did provide an opportunity to partake of your hospitality. Thank you sir."
The conversation was interrupted by a slight rapping at the door. Lt. Humphreys gave the command to enter and the door
opened to reveal the young midshipman of the Terpsichore.
"Yes?" inquired the Ordinance officer.
"Mr. Humphreys, may I introduce Midshipman Tarleton Harris. He's one of ours." Andrew smiled.
Humphreys nodded towards the midshipman. "A pleasure sir," answered Tarleton.
"What news, Mr. Harris?"
"Sir, the 2nd Royal Artillery is camped to the east of town with the 18th Foot."
"Good, good. Good work, Mr. Harris and impeccable timing. We are just concluding here. If you will excuse me sir."
Andrew waited for the nod from Humphreys then stood up, motioning for Carson and Harris to join him outside. As he stepped
out into the cold air, he replaced his hat upon his head and pulled his overcoat tighter around his neck.
"Mr. Harris, form the men up. We head East."
Thomas nodded at Colour Sergeant Bourne, "Do form the men up Colour Sergeant, we're marching out of Portsmouth."

As the men got ready to go, Thomas said to Andrew, "If we find what we're looking for, I do hope they loan us some wagons to
haul it back with. Dragging carriages through Portsmouth and tearing up the cobblestone streets probably won't make the people
of the town very happy."
Once everyone was ready, the mixed party moved out. They stuck to one side of the road, occasionally passing a carriage or
bundled rider on a horse going in the opposite direction.
The terrain was mostly flat and they passed through a small wood. Thick trees with frozen branches bracketed them on either
sides. The road was laden was frozen water in places, and deep rivets from heavy wagon wheels.
The small wood opened up into a clearing. There were a lot of tree stumps and evidence of land clearing. Just beyond the field
of stumps stood an army camp. It looked like a tent city just up the hill next to the road. There was a line of horses tied up
against an open-air stable. Then off-white tents, many shining with traces of snow and ice.

Officers and men in red uniforms were everywhere. Some milling about, some clearly on duty. A platoon of shovel and axe-
carrying soldiers of a regiment of foot marched past them on the road. The men looked tired and worn already like they had been

working all night.
As they approached the camp, they could see that the larger section was the home of a regiment of foot. Their regimental
banner hung from a large pole off to one side of what seemed to be officers' cabins. It looked like a number of larger wooden
barracks were under construction and the sound of hammers and saws was quite audible in the distance.
Closer to the road was a section of the army camp guarded by musket-carrying infantry but clearly dominated by an artillery unit.
The colours of an artillery unit fluttered in the breeze and several cannon, field boxes, carriages and horses were scattered about
this grassy plain.
"Halt!" shouted a sentry. The man walked towards them and asked for proof of their identity. Thomas introduced himself and
asked Lieutenant Foxall to show the captain's documents. Satisfied, the sentry let the officers pass but insisted the enlisted men
stay put.
Inside the camp they found a Captain sitting on a thick tree stump. He had his boot off and seemed to be trying to change a sock
when the officers approached.
Thomas saluted then said, "Sir, I am Lieutenant Thomas Carson of His Majesty's Marines, this is Lieutenant Andrew Foxall and
Midshipman Tarleton Harris."
The officer remained seated on the stump as he worked to put his boot on. He looked to be in his 30s, perhaps older.
In a gruff voice he said, "Ah navy then, what ship do you hail from?"
"The Terpsichore sir," Thomas answered.
"How many guns?" the Captain asked.
"I would be happy to tell you of our ship," Thomas replied politely. "But might I know your name sir?"
Finally replacing his boot, the Captain stood and said, "Ah, where are my manners. Captain David Rollsbury of His Majesty's
Artillery. So you were saying?"
"32 guns sir," Thomas replied. "We've come because.."
"What pounders?" Captain Rollsbury interrupted.
Thomas was beginning to feel a little flustered by this men. Despite being an officer he seemed impatient and less sophisticated
at conversation. Or perhaps he was trying Thomas's nerves on purpose. The marine wasn't sure.
"I believe Lieutenant Foxall could tell you more of our ship's guns," Thomas replied. "We've come sir on our Captain's orders to
procure some field equipment for our artillery."
"That sounds like a lot of work," Lieutenant Rollsbury replied. "Frankly my unit doesn't have a lot to spare, call it the price of
peace."
Andrew spoke up for the first time, "Sir, we must procure anything at all. The Terpsichore is due to sail shortly and we got orders
to make sure two field carriages are on her at that time."
"Two? I just got done telling you that equipment is limited. It'll be trouble enough for one gun, let alone two."
"Surely, there must be something that you can spare?"

"What size guns are we talking about here?," asked the artillery captain.
"Long nines, sir. Nine pounders," replied Andrew.
"You do know how to make things difficult don't you? Don't you know that the Army doesn't use nine pounders?"
"I am aware of it now. I apologize for wasting your time. Good day sir."
"Now wait a moment. I might be able to help you if..."
"If...," inquired Foxall.
"If we can come to a beneficial arrangement for all concerned," Rollsbury stated.
"I see. Sir, I am on a mission of one of His Majesty's Captains. I have a requisition signed by him and you must comply under
penalty of law."
"Well, Mr. Foxall, your piece of paper doesn't mean too much to me."
"I could report you," Andrew asserted.
"Feel free lieutenant, but as I already told you, we don't have any carriages available. I can also assure you that if any did exist
they would not be found here by the time you returned and certainly not before your ship sails."
The artillery officer looked smug. Andrew tried to judge if you was bluffing and determined that he felt it prudent to heed
Rollsbury's words.
"Will you excuse me for a moment, Captain Rollsbury?" asked Andrew.
Motioning for Lt. Carson and Midshipman Harris to join him, he wished to gauge their opinions semi-privately.
"Well, what do you think? I feel we may not have a choice, but to deal with this knave."
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson had been watching the discussion closely and carefully. He took a few steps back as Andrew
sought to address him privately.
"I don't disagree," Thomas said. "I'd rather not get the Captain personally involved, we may need to barter with this lovely
gentleman from the Royal Artillery again before we sail, so what can we offer Mr. Rollsbury?"
"I have some money saved back, but I don't think even Mr. Rollsbury would be so vulgar as to take coin. Perhaps we can
arrange for a case of Port to be delivered or another wine if he preferred. I do agree we shouldn't bother the Captain about this.
Understood, Tarleton?"
"Yes sir, understood."
Thomas replied, "Coin would indeed be too obvious, a 'gift' to Mr. Rollsbury would be more appropriate. We can send the
Midshipman to take care of this duty while we get the carriages."
The Marine added, "I can contribute 20 shillings, I'd prefer not to unload anything from the ship. Best we secure our gift in
Portsmouth."
Even as he spoke, Thomas was fighting an inner urge to draw his sword and turn the blade at the artillery officer's eyes. This
was hardly the behavior of a gentleman. All the same, the Royal Artillery Captain had them in a tricky position with no alternative
source for what they needed. Thomas would rather deal with this man than bring Captain Williams bad news.
"Agreed. Mr. Harris, do you feel like running an errand?" Andrew offered his purse to the young midshipman. "Head into
Portsmouth and purchase a case of Port. Nothing too fancy just good enough to appease that man."
"Yes sir, I won't let you down sir." And with that Tarleton Harris was headed back towards the city they had just left. Andrew
stepped back towards Captain Rollsbury. He did his best to hide the contempt he had for the other man.
"Captain, I feel we may have gotten off on the wrong foot. To make amends, I'd like to offer you a gift. I've sent Mr. Harris back to
Portsmouth to fetch a case of Port from my personal collection." Andrew hoped Lt. Carson would forgive him the fib and that the
artillery officer wouldn't notice the white lie.
Choosing to play along, Thomas contributed, "Your generosity on this matter would be most appreciated Captain Rollsbury. As
you said, peace has broken out. A few carriages you may not need sitting astride of Portsmouth, perhaps a case of Port would
help a gentleman cope with this good English weather?"

"I was beginning to think you gentlemen had forgotten your manners. Thank you for your generosity. Now, if you'll follow me, let's
see what we can find?"
The Captain led Carson and Foxall between two rows of tents. The company "street" was already well-worn and nearly devoid of
grass. Cooking fires were spaced every 15-20 feet or so. The white tents stood in stark contrast with muddy path. What Andrew
noticed most of all, however, was the smell. He was used to the smell of men in confined quarters, but the penetrating odor of
human waste permeated the entire camp. Thinking of his queasy stomach, Andrew thanked God he had pursued a career in the
navy instead of the army. Thomas noted the smell as well, but did his best not to think about it. He looked around for any cannon
carriages and followed Captain Rollsbury around the muddy camp.
At the end of the row, the Artillery Captain stopped at a row of cannon. "Well, gentlemen, this is what I have to offer. You can
take that Gribeauval there and that new pattern six pounder carriage."
It wasn't exactly what Andrew had in mind. A captured French carriage and a carriage for a lighter cannon. "What size cannon in
the Gribeauval made for?"
"An 8 pounder French model. Pretty close to your long nine actually. It may need some modifications, same for the six pounder,
but they should work for your purposes."
Thomas looked at Andrew and asked, "Well Lieutenant Foxall, what do you think?"
The Marine Officer was quite unsure, having had little experience in the handling of cannon, let alone the modification of gun
carriages.
"Like he said, with some modifications they should work," Andrew replied. "The carpenter's mates should be able to fix us up.
We'll take them sir. Mr. Harris should be here shortly with that Port. If you don't mind, I'd like to get the carriages going back to
the Terpsichore?"
"The borrow of a horse or two would be greatly helpful sir, to get them to the docks," Thomas added to Captain Rollsbury. "If you
provide a rider, your lad can see to their safe return."
"I'm sure that can be arranged. See my orderly and he'll make sure you have the horses. I'm glad I could be of assistance."
"Thank you sir," Thomas replied with a salute. It was better than the man perhaps deserved, but Thomas didn't want to pickle the
deal after the fact.
Turning to Andrew, Thomas said, "Well lets get the horses, and our men. We should have the carriages down at the dock within
the hour. I see no reason why we can't be back on the Terpsichore's deck in two."
Thomas left it unsaid that he'd be leaving the part about the port out of his report of the day's events. That kind of thing could
easily tarnish an officer's career. So far only the three officers and none of the lads knew of the deal, Thomas hoped to keep it
that way.
Andrew thanked the officer and waited for him to disappear within his tent. As they were walking back towards the sailors and
marines, Andrew spoke, "Back to duty then. Let's hope it’s more pleasant than the task we just concluded."
Joint Post by:
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson
Lieutenant Andrew Foxall
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#115
02-23-2010, 04:13 PM
Aubrey's breakfast was simple, bowl of oatmeal, a baked apple and a cup of hot tea with a slice of lemon.Complimenting the
cook, who was commissioned for the wardroom, on his excellent cooking Aubrey left the wardroom and went to get things ready
for the powder to get loaded. He checked to see that those who hadn't gotten anything to eat were reminded to do so, as the
fires were going to be put out.
Once things seemed to be satisfactory, Aubrey went up on deck to keep watch for the return of Foxall and Carson, as well as the
Captain in preperation for acquiring the gunpowder.

<tags>
Quote Flag
Dorella Allerod
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 3536
#116
02-23-2010, 04:58 PM
[The Captain's Breakfast]
Once the Lieutenants left Ruben called out to the Steward, "I am ready for my breakfast."
The Steward looked at his mate, Burke, "go set the table and tell him to be seated, we will have it out to him directly."
Burke was going to take this opportunity to impress the Captain. He grabbed a napkin and a table setting and went to the
Captain's dinning room. He placed the plate and the utensils in the proper setting for formal dinning.
Burke remembered the little old Chinese man, whom took care of the gardens at his fathers estate, that had entertained him as a
child by teaching him to make animals by folding paper. He thought a moment, yes, a swan, that's impressive. He folded the
napkin into a beautiful origami swan and placed it in the center of the plate. Burke was very pleased with himself.
He then made his way to the Great Cabin, and gestured toward the dinning room, "I will bring your food out directly Sir."
He ran back to the Steward.
Ruben walked into his dinning room with his coffee cup in hand. He sat down at the table and waited. He looked amused at the
napkin bird on his plate. "I wonder if they expected it to lay the eggs for me to eat," he said to himself. Taking it he felt bad as he
'broke it's neck' and spread it out on his lap.
The Steward nodded when he heard the Captain moving a chair in the dinning room, "Ok, boy, take the eggs and this plate of
bacon to him, I have the soft-tack, preserves, and another pot of coffee." He smiled and shook his head, "you just leave that
second plate of bacon right here," and winked.
Burke wondered what the wink meant as he grabbed the eggs and bacon. He went to the dinning room and placed the bacon
and eggs on the table.
The Steward brought the toast, preserves and coffee, pouring a fresh cup for the Captain then collaring Burke and leading him
back to their cupboard and the other plate of bacon. Once there with the door closed he growled, "you get half, the other half is
mine. Here is a bowl of gruel too."
He counted the bacon and took his share, he didn't want to anger this grouchy man by taking to much. He looked at his gruel
and made a face. It looked like what he had vomited up yesterday while in the little boat on his way to the Terpsichore.
"Eat it!" the Steward said, "there ain't no more hot food till this evening, if we live till then." He cackled.
Burke nodded, and took a bite of his oatmeal gruel. He wanted to ask what the man meant by 'if we live till then' but he didn't. He
figured the guy just wanted to be ornery.
Breakfast being over, Burke had to clean up and wash the dishes.
Sam struggled with six pieces of hull copper with the exact measurements the captain had asked for and headed towards the
Captain's quarters again, hoping he would find the captain's steward there somewhere.
The Steward pointed at Burke, "he'll take care 'o you Sir"
Burke went over to Sam and asked, "what do you need, Sir?" The kid looked a little younger than him but the Steward called him
Sir so he did likewise.
<tag Sam>
oog - sorry Sam, I'll try to keep up better
JP by
Burke
The Steward

Captain Williams
Quote Flag
Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#117
02-25-2010, 12:22 PM
Sam let the pieces of copper rest on the deck, his arms were hurting and his fingers felt numb from the cold.
He looked up to the person who named him sir. Looking at the red-haired man a grin showed on Sam's face, remembering how
he used to make fun of a boy with the same colour of hair. This time however he had a mission to complete.
"Sam Dunlahm, sir. I was told to go look for the Captain's steward to get some help with these copper plates. The captain wants
these plates as shiny as mirrors and I was suppose to ask the steward how to polish them. Can you help me out?"
ooc: no worries :)
Quote Flag
Dorella Allerod
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 3536
#118
02-26-2010, 05:26 PM
"Edmund Burke, be my name sir, but you can call me Burke. Good to meet you Sam, sir." Burke was secretly pleased that he
knew how to polish copper,once again he could impress someone. That is always a good thing to do, gets you farther in life, he
was sure of that.
"Oh, yes, I used to watch...um,....I mean, you use chalk and soft white gloves. I will go fetch them right away sir." Burke turned
and ran to the Captains pantry, he was eager to impress. Burke returned shortly with two pairs of gloves and chalk. " Here you
go Sam sir. Put these gloves on, then put some chalk powder in your glove then rub the powder on the copper, like so." Burke
demonstrated by putting on his gloves and pouring some chalk carefully out of the wooden box and replacing the lid. "See, now
lots of rubbing and chalk when needed, it'll take time and muscle, but soon, pretty and shiny it will be."
Burke was glad to wear some gloves, it was cold and he wished he had put his hat on.
(tag: Sam)
Quote Flag
Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#119
03-02-2010, 01:32 PM
"Thank you, Burke," Sam said as he accepted the gloves and put them on. He placed the remaining copper plates on the deck
and lay down one plate he wanted to start working on.
White gloves and chalk, he thought as he did exactly the same as Burke had done, polishing a corner of the copper plate. After
rubbing the chalk for a few minutes, even though it was freezing cold, he started to sweat from the hard labour.
"This will take some time before it's finished," he said out loud, taking some more chalk and continued rubbing and rubbing and
rubbing.
Quote Flag
Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219

#121
03-03-2010, 04:01 PM
On board the Alabacore, Aberdeen Scotland
A cold wind blew over the rocks and crags of the Scottish highlands, winding its way down country, over lichen-covered stones
and mossy fields laden with rain. It scraped its way down the eastern slopes beyond Bennachie, picking up speed as it powered
its way across the eastern fens on its way to the coast.
"Come child!" cried the old woman, turning her eyes warily to the low-hanging clouds rolling down from the west. She pulled her
shawl tight around her neck, "This foul wind will give you a chill. Come below decks -- Cap'n says we're about to set sail, and
then it'll only get colder."
Marie closed her eyes, smiling as she felt the mist kiss her face. It was a strong wind, to be sure, and cold. It had a bite to it, and
it reddened her cheeks, but she didn't mind. She had loved Scotland, in spite of -- or perhaps because of -- the foul weather,
which made the whole trip seem all the more like an adventure from one of her books.
A few more substantial drops of rain began to fall and the crone beckoned again from the shelter beneath the foremost section of
the quarterdeck. "Oh now just look - it's beginning to rain! Come, come!"
Reluctantly, Marie stepped back from the gunwale and, taking one last look out to sea, she grinned and ducked inside.
The old woman immediately wrapped her in a blanket, muttering, "Oh my. Just look at you! What a fright!"
Marie laughed, "I'm fine, mum. Stop fussing so."
"Fine, you say?" she worked to straighten Marie's windblown hair, tucking it behind her ears, "That wind and rain'll parch your
skin... and your hair is all about! You've already gotten yourself too much sun this year and you know how it tans your face.
Makes you look like some kind of peasant-girl it does! And now this? Disgraceful."
The girl smiled somewhat impishly and lifted her eyebrows and shrugged. The old governess softened as she regarded her
charge. Shaking her head, she sighted softly, "You'd be so pretty, child, if you'd only take care of yourself. But no man's going to
want to marry a girl who's lookin' like a sailor and if you're not careful that's what you'll be."
Marie rolled her eyes.
"Oh don't start with that, now," the old woman grumbled, "We've had this conversation before. Now if you do as I say, and stop
with all this nonsense of yours, there will be many fine young men who'll be interested in you -- and with your father's wealth
there are no worries about a dowry either. You're very lucky. You should be thankful."
The governess tilted her head to look directly at Marie, "Well?", she prompted.
"Yes mum," came Marie's resigned response. She knew well enough that an argument would buy her nothing at this point, and
she was eager to end the conversation and find a place where she could peer outside as they set out to sea.
The old woman set a hand on Marie's cheek tenderly, "There's a good girl. Now I'm to help in the galley for a spell. You stay
inside -- and I don't want to see you talking with the sailors, either; it's just not proper."
"Yes mum, of course," replied Marie, whose mind was already racing, trying to figure out the best way to get above decks without
being seen.
Quote Flag
Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#122
03-04-2010, 10:03 AM
As the hatch covers were closed and the battening pulled down over the grating to keep the cold moisture out Ruben looked fore
and aft of his command.
A thirty-two gun frigate, a Sovereignty in it's own with him as king... he wondered about that part for the hundredth time. It had to
be, there was no time for a committee of war in a battle, but he sometimes wondered if the absolute power was such a wise one
to give.

His was not to reason why, or to make that decision he shrugged fatalistically, but to do his very best with this weapon he had
been given. Like a sword master with an untried blade he would have to learn her ways, the crew, his officers, all while in the
fight for life and liberty on the cold unrelenting ocean.
"Mister Rutherford, has Mister Foxall and Mister Carson reported back aboard yet?" He barked at his First Lieutenant like it was
Aubrey's fault they had not.
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Linette Geraud
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#123
03-04-2010, 08:39 PM
Aubrey had just gotten back up to the deck after making certain things were stowed away and lashed down secure. He wasn't
about to have something come loose in the middle of a storm and have the Terpsichore capsize and have everyone and
everything lost.
"No Captain, Lt. Carson and Lt. Foxall have not reported onboard as of yet." Aubrey answered Captain Williams.
Aubrey looked towards the docks, shielding his eyes with one hand to block out the sun hoping to catch a glimpse of the two
lieutenants. He hoped that they were able to accomplish their task without too much trouble.
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Jon Allen
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#124
03-05-2010, 11:44 AM
The large boat was tied up alongside the HMS Terpsichore and the sailors were busy unloading the two carriages by hauling
them up onto deck tied to ropes.
As they had approached, one of the sailors had shouted, "Ahoy! Landing Party returning!" and got a response from a man on
deck.
The duty was hardly one for a Marine Officer, so Lieutenant Thomas Carson watched for only a minute or so, before he said to
Lieutenant Foxall, "I'll inform the Captain that we're back. I'll let you give him and Mr. Rutherford the happy details later."
By 'happy details' Thomas was referring to the success of their mention, and kindly leaving out the exchange of materials with
the Captain of Artillery that their procurement had required.
Turning and walking aft, Thomas saluted the Quarterdeck and then stepped up onto it.
Finding Lieutenant Rutherford there, Thomas turned to face him and came to a close approximation of the position of attention in
respect.
"Ah Mr. Rutherford," Thomas said with a smile. "We have returned and I can report success. We have brought two carriages in
tow from the 2nd Royal Artillery detachment we found encamped outside of Portsmouth. Mr. Foxall has their specifications but I
can tell you that he and my Marines who are familiar with the operation of cannon share the opinion that they will suit our needs."
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Linette Geraud
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#125
03-05-2010, 05:02 PM
Aubrey perked up when he heard the shout, then grinned from ear to ear when he caught sight of Thomas and heard his report.

"Welcome back Lt. Carson, I'm glad to hear that, and your arrival will please the Captain very much;I'm indeed rather glad to see
you as well as Lt. Foxall. With your arrival and things being stored securely, I think we are nearer to our goal of heading out to
sea. Speaking of having things stored securely, best make certain that is done, would hate for the ship to be off balance and we
take on water losing the Terpsichore."
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Jon Allen
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#126
03-05-2010, 10:23 PM
Originally posted by Linette Geraud View Post
Aubrey perked up when he heard the shout, then grinned from ear to ear when he caught sight of Thomas and heard his report.
"Welcome back Lt. Carson, I'm glad to hear that, and your arrival will please the Captain very much;I'm indeed rather glad to see
you as well as Lt. Foxall. With your arrival and things being stored securely, I think we are nearer to our goal of heading out to
sea. Speaking of having things stored securely, best make certain that is done, would hate for the ship to be off balance and we
take on water losing the Terpsichore."
"I will see to that duty as soon as the carriages are secure and my Marines back board ship," Thomas replied then asked as he
wiped some chimney ash off his red coated shoulder. "Has anything of significance happened in our absence?"
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Linette Geraud
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#127
03-06-2010, 08:52 AM
"Has anything of significance happened in our absence?"
Aubrey thought for a moment before he answered the question Thomas just asked,
"Anything of significance...." Aubrey answered thoughtfully, "Just that there was a minor mishap with cannon balls going willy
nilly about the deck and Lt. O'Mally saving us from what could have been a disaster." Aubrey looked at Thomas watching his
reaction, as he continued "In the confusion that the cannon balls made, dropping onto the deck from a broken net; those that
were loading the gunpowder lost their grip on the rope sending the gunpowder plummeting towards the deck. Lt. O'Mally leaped
up and out, swinging the load away from the deck and it hit the water safely."
"You did miss an amusing sight as well, me blinded by the reflection of a copper mirror being used for lighting the hold, and
stepping back on two cannon balls and my arms flailing about trying to keep my balance, then landing on my back." Aubrey
chuckled.
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Jon Allen
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#128
03-06-2010, 04:12 PM
"You did miss an amusing sight as well, me blinded by the reflection of a copper mirror being used for lighting the hold, and
stepping back on two cannon balls and my arms flailing about trying to keep my balance, then landing on my back." Aubrey
chuckled.
Thomas listened to the Lieutenant's story with a grand smile and wide eyes. As Aubrey chuckled, the Marine Officer joined in.
"My my," Thomas said still smiling. "What a stage performance indeed, I'm sorry I missed all the excitement."

Thomas looked back at the loading operation and said, "Cannonballs, carriages, powder....this is starting to feel like a real ship
of His Majesty's service."
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Lupe
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#129
03-06-2010, 04:39 PM
"Mister Rutherford, have you seen our blasted Lieu... oh, there you are. Back aboard I see." Ruben said as he was coming on
the deck from one last check of the powder room. "Very good, and successful in your mission too, I make no doubt."
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Jon Allen
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#130
03-06-2010, 07:25 PM
"Yes sir," Lieutenant Thomas Carson said as he spun to face the Captain and saluted him.
"Lieutenant Foxall can give you more details sir," Thomas stated. "He's seeing to the transfer of the two carriages we procured. I
believe he also intends to speak to the carpenters aboard, as they will need to be altered to suit our particular cannons, as you
know sir the Royal Artillery use cannon that are lighter than our own."
Thomas asked, "Captain, as this duty is fulfilled, do you have any new orders for me sir?"
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Lupe
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#131
03-06-2010, 07:57 PM
"Glad you asked, yes I do." Ruben nodded. "We are about to bring the wifes aboard. I want you to detail a party to search the
women coming aboard. I want no spirits coming aboard with them." He looked a little tired when he continued, "and I want it
made clear to them that none of the men's clothes or ship's furniture is leaving with them. If the men pay... um, give a gift of their
earrings or brick-a-brack that is their business but not their slops, blankets, copper belaying pins etc..."
He looked the Marine over, "is that understood?"
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#132
03-07-2010, 09:13 AM
The Marine Officer absorbed what the Captain was saying, then replied, "Yes sir I'll see to it, just one thing sir, to the time of what
bells is this visit taking place?"
The Marine was already contemplating the best way to handle the matter. As the officers and crew would be excited and urgent
to see their wives, it seemed like a search at the docks would be the most advisable course of action. That assumed though that
the wives all came aboard using one of the ship's boats acting as a ferry. If they came aboard by another vessel it could
complicate that strategy. Thomas was already concluding that he would need Marines to inspect new arrivals both on at the port
and at the ship's rails.
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Lupe
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#133
03-07-2010, 10:22 AM
Ruben smiled, "I figure once the word is out they will be swarming aboard like Frenchmen trying to take the Terpsichore by force.
Rutherford, you will rig the boarding netting, the women will only be allowed to come in at the main entry ladder, larboard side.
Mister Carson, your men will be authorized to offer cold shot to any boat that will not follow those orders."
He looked at the Marine closely, "I have one more order for you My Dear Sir, the sentry at the cabin door is to be doubled while
the women are aboard, with clear orders that no miss is to enter the cabin under any pretense at all, the sentry's that let a miss
in the cabin will have a dozen from me, and another one from you. Is that understood?"
<tag>
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Jon Allen
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#134
03-07-2010, 03:29 PM
"Understood sir," Carson replied. "I will see to the preparations immediately, will that be all sir?"
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Lupe
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#135
03-07-2010, 04:28 PM
"I believe so." Ruben temporized and nodded to Thomas.
Then he turned to Aubrey, "one last thing... All boys, and Midshipman fifteen and under will report to the Captain's Cabin for the
duration of the women's stay on board. Their mothers sent them to me for to learn them to be men, but I don't think this is what
they had in mind when they did that."
He looked at Aubrey closely, "I am not setting a standard here, I condemn no man for what is a natural urge. I just don't think our
boys need to learn this life lesson at ten or fifteen and not from a Portsmouth Brute."
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Linette Geraud
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#136
03-08-2010, 02:14 PM
Aubrey nodded, in fact he had no objections as to what Captain Williams had stated. He remembered his own experiance when
he was about 14, first-hand and it wasn't something he relished. It was something embarrassing, degrading and abit appalling.
Due to being tutored by the ship's chaplain when on his father's ship, the chaplain had a bit of influence where certain matters
were concerned, as well as his mother. Aubrey didn't consider himself a saint, he has had some pleasure of the female flesh. He
just didn't like the degradation the women were placed in, or placed themselves in. He did understand though, at times there just
didn't seem any other escape for the women, and that there just wasn't any other way for them to get by. And the men could be
such animals, coarse and all together primitive. And at times the women could be just as coarse as the men.At times they can
seem to be rather rabid.

"Aye Captain, I will make certain that they are there, personally." Aubrey said."I really do not wish them to be seeing something
like that myself."
Aubrey himself, wasn't going to indulge in the rutting process, and by all means he had made certain to tell Priscilla not to come
down and visit him at the port when the wives were allowed to come on board. He really didn't want her to see the things that
happen on the deck of the ship. Plus it would not behoove her to come onboard, as it would sully her reputation.
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Lupe
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#137
03-08-2010, 04:23 PM
"Then let's hang out the signal for wives and see if the women out number the men on board." Ruben said smiling, "if all goes
well, these men of ours won't see another woman for quite some time."
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Linette Geraud
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#138
03-08-2010, 10:00 PM
"Aye Captain." Aubrey said rising to his feet. "Lets get this part finished, then off to sea we will go."
With a snappy salute towards the Captain, Aubrey walked out of the Great Cabin. He found Sam quickly and also those who
were 15 years and younger and told them they were wanted immediately in the Great Cabin to report to the Captain.
"Pass word along to those whom haven't been told." Aubrey said to Sam Dunlahm.
Aubrey also went along to make certain none were missed.
He even stopped to find the young assistant steward, Burke.
"The Captain wants you to report to him immediately, and that is an order." Aubrey stated.
Once he thought that the midshipman age 15 or younger were inside the Great Cabin, Aubrey would give the order to hoist the
signal for the wives to come onboard.
Looking out he called out the order. "All right, hoist the signal for the wives to come onboard!"
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Dorella Allerod
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#139
03-09-2010, 07:55 PM
Originally posted by Linette Geraud View Post
"The Captain wants you to report to him immediately, and that is an order." Aubrey stated.
"Aye Sir" Burke said. He quickly made his way to the captain's cabin. There were other young boys that looked younger than he
in the cabin as well. He wasn't sure why they were all here, but he knew when the captain arrived they would soon find out.
Burke gave a nod to a couple of them when he noticed a wooden shelf hung on hooks on the wall. He made his way past the
other boys to where the shelf was. Books, the captain has books, he thought to himself. Burke clasped his hands behind his
back as he leaned forward to read the titles.....
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Firefly

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Posts: 219
#140
03-09-2010, 10:10 PM
On board the HMS Albacore, The North Sea
The bow of the Albacore rocked up and down against the shifting, white-capped waves of the North Sea, each downward plunge
accompanied by a gossamer spray of sea water, shredded by the fierce west wind. Wispy tendrils of dark gray cloud hung so low
in the sky that Marie wouldn't have been surprised to see the tops of the masts scraping them. She noticed that the sky had
been dimming in the last hour or so, and guessed that it must be near sunset.
She had tucked herself away in small bit of shelter just before the quarterdeck where she could have a good view but also a
reasonable degree of protection against the wind. As much as she hated to admit it, her old governess had been right: it had
gotten colder out at sea and she felt the damp chill right down to her bones. Still, she'd headed above decks as soon as the old
woman had fallen asleep. Cold or not, she didn't want to miss a moment of this adventure. She didn't know when, or if, she'd get
this chance again.
A particularly rough wave hit the Albacore and the whole of the ship rocked to starboard. Marie clung tight to a post where she
was standing, her eyes widening as she felt the slightest twinge of fear. Adrenaline surged and her heart beat wildly in her chest.
She laughed -- a reaction borne out of equal parts fear and excitement.
The door beside her swung open and a man's head leaned out.
"Marie! Pourquoi êtes-vous à l'extérieur dans ce vent?" Why are you out in this wind?
Her head darted, eyes wide, at the sound of her father's voice.
"R-rien!" she stammered, "J'étais juste là-" Nothing! I was only-
"Venir à l'intérieur!" Come inside!
She obeyed without a moment of pause, ducking inside the door. Her father was not a cruel man in the least, but she loved and
feared him and he commanded her absolute respect. She had practically begged him to let her accompany him on this trip and
had promised to be obedient and not take any undue risk. She felt a tightness in her stomach, a burning discomfort and shame
at having disobeyed her governess, and by extension -- her father.
He leveled a stern gaze at her, continuing in French as he always did with her.
"Marie, why do you do such things? Were you not told to remain below decks?"
"Yes, but father, I-"
"Why do you not do as you are told?"
"I just... I wanted to watch. And I was very careful. You saw! I was right beside the doorway."
He sat on a small wooden stool and leveled a stern gaze at her. For several long moments, she looked at the floor and waited,
not daring to meet his eyes. Finally he stood and lifted his hands, cradling her face. He laughed softly. "Marie, you are a ...
troublemaker. You know that I have always found your somewhat uncommon ... 'spark' to be charming. But there are others who
will not ... the time for childish play is done and if you are to be seen and treated as a gentle lady, then you must behave as one.
Do you understand?"
Marie's eyes remained on the deck. She nodded, "Yes father."
Jean laughed again, "No you don't." She glanced up at him and he winked, "But perhaps you will one day. Until then, I will pity
the man who will call you his wife."
Her eyes finally rose to meet his and she couldn't prevent herself from issuing an embarrassed, slightly impish grin.
Giving her a quick kiss on her forehead, he said, "Now... I will permit you to remain outside only so long as you remain within an
arm's length of this doorway. Not one step further -- not until we are out of this weather. Do I make myself clear?"
Nodding, Marie replied, her voice bright, "Yes father, thank you."
"Now go, girl," he said, "enjoy your adventure."

She beamed, her eyebrows rising as she slipped past him and ducked back out the door and into the coming night.
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Lupe
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#141
03-10-2010, 12:35 PM
"Aye Sir" Burke said. He quickly made his way to the captain's cabin. There were other young boys that looked younger than he
in the cabin as well. He wasn't sure why they were all here, but he knew when the captain arrived they would soon find out.
Burke gave a nod to a couple of them when he noticed a wooden shelf hung on hooks on the wall. He made his way past the
other boys to where the shelf was. Books, the captain has books, he thought to himself. Burke clasped his hands behind his
back as he leaned forward to read the titles.....
Ruben walked into his cabin and saw the boys standing lost and confused. He saw Burke looking at the books, he didn't seem
lost or confused, but then he had been in this cabin before.
"Burke, fetch out about a half dozen of the ninety-one Madeira. There should be a small keg of petit fours in the pantry. Sam,
help him carry it all."
He grinned at the boys, "don't worry me lads, your not done out of a party. We shall have wine, cards, and stories of adventure."
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Mevynn
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Posts: 1965
#142
03-10-2010, 02:21 PM
As Sam, ordered by First Lieutenant Rutherford, walked to the Captain's quarters, he told the other boys he met that they had to
meet there directly. He walked into the quarters, his arms crossed in front of his chest, his fists clenched, he tried to ignore the
pain in his arms from rubbing the plates, and the pain in his skinned hands. Hoping the Captain wouldn't see it, cause if the
captain was anything like his father, Sam would probably get slapped around the head for getting his hands injured.
He welcomed the change though, glad to be out of the cold wind. He kept quiet as the Captain walked in, yet it was in vain, he
had to help Burke get some wine and glasses. Quietly he followed Burke, a grimace on his face as he helped carrying the bottles
and glasses.
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Lupe
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#143
03-11-2010, 01:36 PM
When the signal broke out for wives, you would have thought they were waiting dockside.
The bum-boats came out to the ship like Frenchmen intent on boarding. As the wherries came abreast of the Terpsichore the
girl, young women, older women, large, small, blond, brunette, redheads, tall, short, were all calling up to the ship and the sailor
men were picking amongst them.
The women started coming aboard in a steady stream. the Terpsichore changed from a quiet Man-o-War to a loud party
atmosphere, as couples were disappearing down the hatches to find a corner or hammock they could call their own.
ooc: Ok guys, have at it!
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Dorella Allerod
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#144
03-11-2010, 06:36 PM
Originally posted by Lupe View Post
"
Ruben walked into his cabin and saw the boys standing lost and confused. He saw Burke looking at the books, he didn't seem
lost or confused, but then he had been in this cabin before.
"Burke, fetch out about a half dozen of the ninety-one Madeira. There should be a small keg of petit fours in the pantry. Sam,
help him carry it all."
"Aye sir," Burke said as he straightened up from reading book titles and looked over at the captain.
Originally posted by Lupe View Post
He grinned at the boys, "don't worry me lads, your not done out of a party. We shall have wine, cards, and stories of adventure."
Burke was happy at the thought of a party, especially the wine. His muscles were sore and achy from rubbing chalk powder all
day. He led the way to the pantry as Sam followed.
Burke pointed to the wine and proper glasses for Sam to carry.
Originally posted by Mevynn View Post
Quietly he followed Burke, a grimace on his face as he helped carrying the bottles and glasses.
Burke noticed a gim face on Sam as he turned to lead the way back to the cabin. "I take it you are sore as well?" Burke said over
the keg of petit fours.
Burke made his way back to the cabin and set the keg on the captain's desk, being the only table in the room.
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Jon Allen
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#145
03-11-2010, 11:17 PM
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson stood on the Quarterdeck silently, his hands placed behind his back. He looked sharp in his
red coat with black facings and gold buttons.
As the sun began to drop, so too did the temperature with the slightest breeze sweeping in over the Portsmouth rooftops. But the
mood aboard ship was as hot as ever. The wives had started coming aboard and the party had begun. There was some
entertainment off and on. Thomas periodically heard a sailor break out an instrument to play on or below decks. At other times
he heard singing.
Compared to the other sounds that occasionally made their way to the Quarterdeck, those were a godsend. For some reason
those other sounds seemed somehow humorous to Thomas and he had fought a chuckle more than a few times. It was strange
what could be construed as funny.
The Marine Officer slowly reached into his pocket and removed a handkerchief, which he used to wipe his nose. He was feeling
a touch of a cold coming on, nothing too serious but an annoyance.
While the officers and crew relaxed with pleasurable company, Thomas worked. The unspoken fact was that on the day-to-day,
Marines aboard ship had it easy. Thomas's Marines manned guard stations and oversaw security. They practiced with and
cleaned their weapons. The Marines didn't scrub the deck or act as carpenters. The backbreaking work was fairly minimal for
them.
In some respects, Thomas had to admit that he had the life of a seaman without it's responsibilities. Most of the time that was
true anyway. Battle was another story entirely but the exception to the rule.
Events like the current were another notable exception. Thomas could speak plainly that he was sure his men would like to
partake in more of the festivities at such a time. But for many of them, stationed at the rails checking for contraband, this was a
time to work. The chief responsibility of the Marines was the security of the ship and having droves of women come aboard
represented a threat to that. Thomas doubted any of them would do any real harm, but that wasn't the point.
Discipline had to be maintained, and the Marines were there for that purpose.

So while the bulk of the officers and crew enjoyed their company, Thomas and his marines worked. Most would get their chance
to partake in off-duty fun and games, but not as much as the average sailor aboard the Terpsichore.
For his own part, Thomas was an eligible bachelor. But he was also a gentleman and somehow he couldn't escape the idea of
prying ideas. Someone aboard or someone from shore seeing him with some strange woman. It made him just uncomfortable
enough to have no interest in enjoying the festivities. Even aboard ship, the civilized world and it's whispers seemed too close at
hand for his liking. He held no favor to gossip but Thomas had met others who certainly did. Having just attended his sister's
wedding a month ago, he could still feel the eyes of his family upon him somehow. He could imagine his sister's embarrassed
giggle and his mother's disapproving gaze. The Marine Officer was a grown man but he had never gotten far enough from his
family for his liking.
Perhaps he'd be more comfortable and free-willed when they left England's shores. He hoped for as much.
Surveying the deck, Thomas noticed another group of 3 young women being helped onto the deck. One had stopped a Marine
and was talking to him.
While this distraction took place, the other two women quickly scurried to a waiting pair of sailors.
"You there," Thomas called from the Quarterdeck as he took a couple steps forward. "Stand fast."
As the sailors and the women stopped in their tracks, Thomas called, "Corporal, inspect those women."
The Corporal saluted and shouted, "Yessir!" and then began to ask the woman to show their belongings.
As Thomas watched this, he noticed something amiss. Or at least he thought he did.
The Marine Officer stepped off the Quarterdeck close to the mainmast as the inspection was finished and walked up to the
Corporal.
"Corporal King," Thomas asked. "Where's the private who was supposed to be manning the rail with you? Private...?"
The Corporal turned and said, "Collins sir, Private Collins. He was supposed to show up at the last bell sir for inspection duty, but
I haven't seen him."
Thomas asked, "Why didn't you report this Corporal?"
Looking a little sheepish, King replied, "I was giving the lad a little more time sir, he got some bad news."
"Speak plainly Corporal," Thomas stated folding his arms behind his back.
"One of the ladies who came aboard brought a letter to Private Collins," King replied. "He was quite upset when he read it on his
hammock and was having trouble pulling himself together. I'm sorry sir I just thought I'd give the lad some time to compose
himself."
Thomas considered what he was hearing and dismissed most of it. A young, probably irish boy got some bad news from home.
Still, it was no excuse for a Marine to not show up for duty.
"In the future Corporal, I'd rather you bring me or Colour Sergeant Bourne such news straightaway," Thomas stated. "Don't let
me discover it by chance ever again."
Corporal King saluted, "Yes sir."
Thomas turned and walked away towards the nearest steps below-decks. He needed to find Colour Sergeant Bourne and see to
a matter of ship's discipline.
His earlier thoughts on the relative ease of Marine life flooded back to his mind and he wondered if he had jinxed himself to a
round of misfortune.
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Linette Geraud
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#146
03-12-2010, 11:40 AM
Aubrey watched as the women came on board and disappeared from view with their 'husbands' he shook his head not wanting

to indulge. Taking a few steps away from the railing, something caught Aubrey's eyes and he went to the railing once more to get
a closer look. Her cloak was wrapped about her with the hood mostly covering her hair, but it was unmistakable to Aubrey as to
whom he saw on one of the bum-boats. Her hazel eyes met his and he could not discount nor deny that mischievious twinkle in
her eyes. There was his beloved Priscilla amongst the 'wives'. He recalled her teasing him that she would come on one of the
boats to come visit him, before he set off to sea. He hadn't taken what she said seriously, oh he was warned; especially by her,
not to take what she said lightly. Not knowing whether to be either angry or glad to see her, Aubrey felt himself placed in a rather
sticky situation.
Priscilla pulled out a fan, from the folds of her cloak opening the fan she clasped her hands together with the open fan between
them, which Aubrey read as, "Forgive me"
Running her fingers through the ribs of the fan,"I want to talk to you" was what Aubrey translated in her signal.
Priscilla waited for Aubrey's answer, then he nodded. "Send the lady who's holding the fan, up to me." Aubrey called to the man
who was directing the women onboard the ship.
Priscilla was assisted up to the deck was checked over by the marines and then walked right up to Aubrey. Aubrey murmured to
Priscilla, "You've put me into quite the predicament here, Priscilla. If word got out that you were here it would create quite a bit of
scandal.I really don't wish to have that happen. Does your mother and father know you are here?" Aubrey asked.
"I told them I was coming in to see a few friends." Priscilla whispered back.
"And what did you tell your friends? Aubrey asked.
"That I was coming to see you." Priscilla said matter-of-factly.
Aubrey turned to look at Priscilla, catching the intoxicating scent of her perfume. Aubrey wanted to sweep her into his arms and
cover her face with kisses, however it wouldn't be a proper way to treat a lady, least of all on the deck while he was supposed to
be doing his duties.
"Priscilla, we've got to get you off of this ship and back to your friends residence, you can't stay here." Aubrey said.
"I won't be able to leave until the other ladies are finished and sent off the ship. I just wanted to see you before you went out to
sea, so I took a chance. Please, let me atleast go talk with you somewhere private. " Priscilla quietly pleaded with Aubrey.
"Priscilla, it wouldn't be proper." Aubrey stated.
"It would be even more improper for me to see what's happening on the deck" Priscilla retorted.
Aubrey nodded, he really didn't want Priscilla to see what was about to happen on deck either.
Casting an eye about the deck he spotted Patrick O'Mally, motioning him to come over. He was going to owe Patrick alot for
what he was about to ask. Patrick walked over and paused looking at the woman next to Aubrey, he cocked his head to one side
with a questioning look.
Quietly Aubrey said to Patrick, "Mister O'Mally,I'd like you to meet my fiance' Priscilla Thorton. She deemed it necessary to come
on board."
Patrick wasn't about to believe Aubrey then took a better look at Priscilla and the earnestness in Aubrey's manner. He could tell
she was a woman of quality.
Priscilla smiled at Patrick, "A pleasure Mister O'Mally" she said pleasntly and he nodded his head towards her.
"Patrick, I mean Mister O'Mally, will you watch the deck for me, I need to take care of this unexpected turn of events. I will owe
you a rather huge favor."
"Aye that you will Mister Rutherford." Patrick answered with a grin.
With a nod towards O'Mally saying, "I am indeed in your debt, Patrick." Aubrey said then offered his arm to Priscilla.
Priscilla took his arm and went with him to his room. He lit a candle and the soft emanation of light, lit the room up. Priscilla
smiled seeing the picture of herself hanging on the wall. Once inside the room, Priscilla closed the door then pulled Aubrey close
giving him a kiss. Aubrey enjoyed the kiss, then reluctantly pulled himself away.

"Now, Priscilla you are making it very difficult for me to be a gentleman." Aubrey remarked with a bit of a chuckle.
"What if I don't want you to be a gentleman, instead want you to be a rogue." Priscilla answered with a grin. She moved a few
steps close to Aubrey backing him up against the door.
With a great deal of effort, Aubrey moved Priscilla away and sat her down upon the chair. The room being small it soon filled with
Priscilla's perfume, especially with her taking off her cloak and laying it down on the bed.
She re-adjusted her hair, some wisps of her long dark hair escaping from her bun. Aubrey realized that he was holding his breath
watching this enchanting sight. This was going to be a rather long frustrating night being in the same room.. Which was indecent.
He had to do something....He went quiet trying to figure out a plan to get her off the ship..
"Aubrey, you do love me, don't you?" Priscilla asked.
Aubrey's attention was suddenly on her."What?" he could scarce believe what he just heard her ask.
"I just asked, do you love me?" Priscilla once again asked.
Aubrey was surprised at her question, "Yes, yes I love you."
"Then lets get married right now, you could ask your captain to do the ceremony." Priscilla said.
"Priscilla..." Aubrey started to make a protest, but it died before it could get fully out, his will melting under the gaze of her
sparkling hazel eyes. Priscilla was certainly quite the woman, intelligent, lively, determined; definitely a match for him. "I'll go see
what the Captain will say, I'm not promising anything Priscilla, but I will go ask him if he is willing to do the ceremony. My dear
lady, you are incorrigible." He said with a grin. With a bow, Aubrey exited the room making certain that the door was closed.
On the way to the Great Cabin, Aubrey started to think about what Priscilla wanted, it was a crazy idea but he wanted to get
married to her as well. He stopped in front of the door, looking at the Marines placed in front of it. He figured he may get berated
by the captain for leaving his post, but this was a matter of conscience and something to save the reputation of the woman he
loved.
"I am here to see the Captain it is of great importance." Aubrey said quietly to the Marines.
Since he didn't have a miss with him, Aubrey was let inside, he stepped inside and closed the door behind him.
"Captain, I need to speak to you about an important matter." Aubrey looked over at the midshipmen who were there, it would well
behoove him to speak of this delicate matter in a more private area, but since there really wasn't any real private area, he felt
that perhaps he and the Captain could speak in quiet tones where no others could hear.
Speaking lowly in the Captain's ear, Aubrey murmured, " I have a delicate situation that needs your consideration. My fiance'
without my knowlege, took it upon herself to arrive with the 'wives' on the bum-boat, in order to see me. She is currently in my
room, and in order to prevent a large scandal, I am asking if you would consider performing a marriage ceremony for us."
Aubrey braced himself for what might come next, he wasn't certain how Ruben would take this but, something needed to be
done. It was a moral imperative.
Quote Flag
Lupe
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#147
03-12-2010, 12:18 PM
"Captain, I need to speak to you about an important matter." Aubrey looked over at the midshipmen who were there, it would well
behoove him to speak of this delicate matter in a more private area, but since there really wasn't any real private area, he felt
that perhaps he and the Captain could speak in quiet tones where no others could hear.
Ruben looked at his First Officer, "of course Mister Rutherford." Then looking at Burke, "Sorry, I know you should get to party too,
but can I ask you to pour the wine for these young men? Thank-you."
Taking Aubrey into the dinning cabin and all the way to the far corner they would have privacy if they talked low. "Yes Aubrey,
what is it?"

Speaking lowly in the Captain's ear, Aubrey murmured, " I have a delicate situation that needs your consideration. My fiance'
without my knowlege, took it upon herself to arrive with the 'wives' on the bum-boat, in order to see me. She is currently in my
room, and in order to prevent a large scandal, I am asking if you would consider performing a marriage ceremony for us."
Aubrey braced himself for what might come next, he wasn't certain how Ruben would take this but, something needed to be
done. It was a moral imperative.
"Is she of the same mind Aubrey? I'll be damned if I preform a forced marriage." Ruben murmured back sharply.
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Linette Geraud
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#148
03-12-2010, 12:59 PM
"She was the one who suggested it, Captain. And I am of the same mind." Aubrey answered quietly. "This will not be a forced
marriage on either of our accounts."
Aubrey looked at the Captain, "I do feel apologetic for putting you in this predicament, but I felt I could count on you to help me
out as well. I did place Mister O'Mally in charge while I endeavored to set this straight."
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Lupe
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#149
03-12-2010, 01:06 PM
"Then bring her here so she can tell me herself. We have plenty of witnesses for a wedding, I have a few bottles of champagne."
Ruben told him over his explanation of who had the deck.
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Linette Geraud
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#150
03-12-2010, 01:20 PM
Aubrey's countenance brightened up considerably, though it sobered up somewhat.
"There will be one minor difficulty, and that will be your orders that no misses will be allowed inside here." Aubrey said bringing
this detail up. "I do not wish this to make for conflicting orders."
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Lupe
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#151
03-12-2010, 01:36 PM
Ruben shook his head, "I have been wearing the curse of God" he pointed at the buttons of his uniform coat with it's foul anchor
of the British Royal Navy, "for enough years to not even number of conflicting orders I have both given and received."
He took Aubrey by the shoulder and led him to the cabin door. Just outside the door he let go and turned to the sentry. "Mister
Rutherford is bringing his intended to the Great Cabin to get married, you will let them pass."

Then he turned to Aubrey, "go get her and bring her here."
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Linette Geraud
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#152
03-12-2010, 04:23 PM
Aubery smiled broadly at this "Thank you, Captain." Aubrey said before leaving, then set off to get his lady love.
However there was going to be a slight detour as he wished to have three particular lieutenants to be at the ceremony; Lts.
O'Mally, Carson and Foxall.
First off, Aubrey went back on deck to where O'Mally was at.
"Officer of the Deck you have the deck now. Lt. O'Mally you will come with me."Aubrey said.
Patrick was puzzled and scratched his head at this turn of events, he followed after Aubrey waiting for an answer.
"Patrick my good man, I'm going to be married and I wish you to be my best man. The Captain has agreed to perform the
ceremony."
Patrick grinned, "I am honored, my thanks" he said.
Next person to find was Thomas Carson.
After looking about he spotted Thomas and approached him. "I do hope you are not too busy to attend a wedding. It will be mine
and the Captain will be performing it."
********************
While Aubrey was gathering those he wished to be at the wedding,Priscilla, hearing movement outside, opened up the door
thinking that Aubrey had returned. Seeing that it wasn't Aubrey, she quickly shut the door, her face coloring slightly. "Oh Aubrey
what is taking you so long." Priscilla murmured softly to herself.
<Tag Thomas>
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Dorella Allerod
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Posts: 3536
#153
03-12-2010, 07:07 PM
Originally posted by Lupe View Post
Ruben looked at his First Officer, "of course Mister Rutherford." Then looking at Burke, "Sorry, I know you should get to party too,
but can I ask you to pour the wine for these young men? Thank-you."
"Aye sir" Burke wasn't even sure why all ships boys and midshipmen were having a party anyway. He decided the captain liked
them all as friends.
He began to pour the wine till each were served. Then Burke decided that a good party, one in which the captain had intrusted
him, well, it needed a good host. Burke felt he must be the good host, after all captain said so. He went to the pantry and
searched around, and then, ooohhh pretty. Burke had found the nicest of napkins. All good parties have the best of ... his mom
had taught him so. He quickly returned and poured himself a glass of wine and gulped it in one big gulp.
"So, I am handing each of you a napkin. I will show you how to fold it into a swan. Why? Cause captain has left me as host." He
began teaching and prodding along with snickers and laughs from some. He figured most giggles were from the wine in which he
kept pouring for each empty glass. All at once he looked upon the great table and lo and behold there were many beautiful swan
napkins. It made Burke glow from accomplishment. He poured all more wine,"Toast to all our great swans," he said half toasted
with a giggle.

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Jon Allen
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Posts: 340
#154
03-12-2010, 09:15 PM
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson's feet were audible with every step as he ascended top-side again. The matter of Private
Collins was in the Colour Sergeant's capable hands for the moment, freeing Thomas to....
Suddenly Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford appeared, having just spoken to O'Mally, the Lieutenant looked around as though
seeking someone. The man looked excited, almost jubilant. There was a glow to his face that was beyond the reach of the cold
winter wind. He spotted Thomas and made a beeline towards him.
"I do hope you are not too busy to attend a wedding. It will be mine and the Captain will be performing it."
Thomas continued forward within arm's reach, an eyebrow cocked and a glimmer of amusement in his eye as he replied, "I do
hope good sir that you don't intend to marry O'Mally. He's a fine sailor Aubrey, but I know for a fact that he snores like something
only the good lord could love."
<tag Aubrey>
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Linette Geraud
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Posts: 4429
#155
03-12-2010, 09:40 PM
Aubrey paused for a moment blinked then he grinned broadly. "No, no, its not Patrick I'm marrying..but he does snore loud
enough to wake the dead." he said with a wink towards O'Mally who gave him a mock scowl.
"Truth be told, my intended decided to pay me a visit." then in a quiet hushed tone, Aubrey told Thomas what had transpired,
concluding with, "Which has led me to seek you out to ask my previous question. I wanted you, Andrew, and Patrick to attend
this auspicious occassion."
Aubrey looked at Thomas with a hopeful expression on his face, he all ready considerd Thomas as one of his friends, besides
Patrick.
"Will you accept?" he asked once more.
<tag Thomas>
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Jon Allen
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Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#156
03-12-2010, 09:53 PM
Thomas grinned and that grin grew until it seemed to cover his face as the story unfolded.
"I'd be honored Aubrey," Thomas replied laying a hand on Aubrey's shoulder for a moment before releasing it.
Thomas couldn't nearly believe it. He had never attended a wedding aboard a ship of war, or any ship for that matter. Something
about it felt right though. If the Captain was right about their upcoming voyage, they could be away from England for many
months. Now was not the time for inaction on such matters. They would all be a long way from home, and no one could truly be
certain if they would return. It felt good and just that "Mrs." Rutherford were to wear white before she had any risk of need... god
forbid...to wear black.

Still grinning, his inner thoughts tucked away into the recesses of his mind, Thomas said, "Lets see to it then, I want to meet your
bride-to-be and offer my blessing."
The Marine truly meant it. His sudden goal in life to make Aubrey's wedding the happy time that it should be, a day to strengthen
his mind, body and soul before the difficult days ahead.
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Linette Geraud
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#157
03-13-2010, 03:59 PM
Still grinning, his inner thoughts tucked away into the recesses of his mind, Thomas said, "Lets see to it then, I want to meet your
bride-to-be and offer my blessing."
Aubrey nodded placing a hand on Thomas's shoulder, "Indeed you shall." Aubrey stated, leading the way. "And thank you"
Once they were at his room, Aubrey knocked at his door calling softly to Priscilla, letting her know he was there. Priscilla opened
the door just a crack and seeing that it was Aubrey, beckoned him to come inside.
Seeing his beloved motion for him, Aubrey looked at Thomas and Patrick. "I'll be out momentarily." he stated then stepped
inside, closing the door. Priscilla went immediately into his arms holding onto him, fighting back the tears she felt were about to
consume her.
"What's the matter, my darling?" Aubrey whispered to Priscilla, gently stroking her hair.
"What was taking you so long?" Priscilla asked raising her face up to his.
Aubrey looked into her lovely eyes, framed by long, dark eyelashes, then kissed her lips which looked so inviting. Pulling back he
replied softly, "I have some good news, my love; the Captain has agreed to perform the ceremony as soon as we arrive in the
Great Cabin. The reason why I've been so long is I went to ask three gentlemen to be witness to our wedding. Two of them,
Mister Patrick O'Mally and Mister Thomas Carson; I was able to get. The third one, I will still need to find out if he will be there as
well." Stepping back Aubrey looked at Priscilla, "Thomas wishes to meet you, would you be inclined to talk with him and are you
still certain you wish to go through with this?"
Priscilla looked deep with in Aubrey's eyes then nodded, "I am certain of this." smiling, but with a determined expression in her
eyes. "And yes I am willing to speak with and meet Mister Carson." Quickly she looked at herself in the metal mirror which
Aubrey had on the wall making certain she looked presentable, smoothing down her pretty white dress, then nodded to Aubrey,"I
am ready now to meet him." Priscilla said.
Aubrey smiled at his lady love, (whom was able to look him straight in the eyes with-out standing on her toes), "Very well."
Aubrey said opening the door for Priscilla to meet Thomas. "Miss Priscilla Thorton, may I present Mister Thomas Carson, and
you have all ready met Mister O'Mally." Aubrey nodded towards the men he introduced. "Gentlemen, my intended and in a small
matter of time, my wife."
Priscilla stepped up to meet Thomas, a smile of greeting upon her lips. Aubrey marvelled at the calm demeanor, she displayed.
and felt himself lucky to have found this tall, elegant, extraordinary, and beautiful woman.
"Greetings, Mister Carson" Priscilla stated pleasantly, "It is a pleasure seeing you once again, Mister O'Mally." making eye
contact with the two gentlemen." I am grateful to you both for being a part of what is about to happen." she smiled, the smile
lighting up her whole face and reaching to her eyes. "I suppose you feel this rather impetuous of me." Her eyes crinkled up with
the laughter in them "And I would agree with you, however I deemed it nescessary."
Aubrey hid a smile hearing this. "Gentlemen if you'd keep her company, I will be right back." Aubrey stated quietly, then left to
knock upon Andrew's door, to request his presence at the wedding.
<tags Thomas and Andrew>
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Jon Allen
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Posts: 340
#158
03-13-2010, 05:27 PM
Thomas kept up a polite smile as the Marine Officer bowed his head respectfully and addressed the woman.
"Priscilla, it is truly an honor," Thomas said to her. "Your arrival has certainly livened up Mr. Rutherford. I can see it in his cheeks,
he looks as giddy as a boy."
The purposeful embarrassing and humored tone in his voice was obvious.
Thomas bowed his head again as he said, "I want to give you both my blessing, I hope for happy days to you both."
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Linette Geraud
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#159
03-13-2010, 11:19 PM
Priscilla's cheeks turned a shade of pink with his comment. "Point well taken Thomas." she said with a wry smile. "And thank
you."
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Lupe
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#160
03-14-2010, 10:50 AM
Ruben paced under the half deck, he was going to wait there to make sure the sentry would not give a problem. The hour glass
was turned, the bell struck. He would climb the stairs and walk the quarterdeck but then he would not be near the door when the
First Lieutenant came back.
He caught a sailor and sent him fetch his clerk with the proper certificates the ship logs, and the book of ceremonies.
Sam gave a fast nod, "Yes, I am, thank you for helping me with polishing of the copper plates, Burke." He managed not to break
the glasses and placed them next to the keg on the captain's desk.
He watched as Mister Rutherford and the Captain went to the dinning cabin and started whispering. Not knowing why the captain
was even giving a party and expecting that it would finish soon as the First Officer probably was the bearer of bad news, he
accepted a full glass of wine that Burke had poured and drank it out quickly. As the liquid passed through his body he finally felt
a bit warmer again, yet the throbbing in his skinned hands still wasn't gone.
He was glad Burke kept filling up the glasses, yet he didn't quite understand why they had to fold the napkins. With a lot of
difficulty, his fingers hurt as he tried to stretch them, he followed Burke's movements and tried to fold the napkins. In the end,
somehow, he still didn't know how he had done it, and he certainly wouldn't be able to repeat it again, the result of his folding
could be admired amongst the other swans on the table. Funny though, he thought, some of the swans had double heads and
tails or maybe it was the effect of the wine.
He raised his glass towards Burke for the toast. "Thank you for the entertainment, Mister Burke," a broad smile on his face,
forgotten about the pain in his hands, arms and back.
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Ragsdale
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Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 418
#162
03-17-2010, 01:36 PM
OOC: Part of this takes place before Aubrey, Thomas, and Patrick are assembled in the Wardroom.

After making sure the carriages were properly stowed, Andrew released his detail for the festivities that were about to begin. He
still needed to talk to the Carpenter's Mates, but that could wait. Feeling exhaustion setting in, Foxall decided to head to his
quarters. He would not be needed on deck for several hours and he didn't want to interrupt the crew while the "wives" were on
board.
Going below deck, Andrew made his way to the Wardroom which was empty. Lt. Foxall walked over to the door to his quarters
and walked in pulling the door closed behind him. As he looked up, he saw a young woman standing there. Turning back to the
door and opening it, Andrew yelled, "William!".
"Yes sir," replied the lieutenant's servant. "You found the surprise, then?"
"I most certainly did, Will. What's the meaning of this?"
"I thought you might like the company, sir. What's the matter sir? Is she not pretty enough for you?"
"Whether or not she is pretty is besides the point. I am sure that the other officers would not appreciate the Wardroom being
turned into a bordello," replied Andrew.
"I don't think you need to worry about the other officers sir. I spied Mr. Rutherford entering his room with a room a short time
before. He's got her in there now," said Will.
"Does he?" Andrew was a bit puzzled. He was under the impression that Aubrey was engaged and the executive officer did not
strike him as a man to wander. Still, sometimes the urge was just too great.
"Aye, sir. Would you like me to take the girl away?"
"No Will. I'll take care of it. You go have some fun yourself."
A slight smirk came over the servant's face. "Aye, aye sir."
Waiting until Will left the Wardroom, Andrew entered his quarters once again closing the door behind him. The girl looked to be
about his own age. Her face was tanned and framed by light brown hair. Her green eyes shined in the dim light within the cabin.
She was actually quite pretty with a slender figure. Her clothing and tanned skin were clear evidence of her class in society. She
looked uneasy as she stood against the far wall staring at Andrew.
"What's your name?," asked Andrew.
"Jessica, sir."
"No need to call me sir. Your not one of my salts. Call me Andrew." Andrew smiled slightly. He sat down on the edge of his cot
and patted his hands gently against it motioning for Jessica to sit down on well.
"Yes sir, I mean Andrew."
As the girl sat down, Foxall spoke again. "You know, you really are quite pretty." Andrew leaned in to kiss the space where her
neck meets her shoulder.
"Thank you, sir."
"I told you to call me Andrew." Foxall leaned in to kiss her lips as he reached for the string tying her bodice.
OFF: [Interrupt away, my dear Aubrey.]
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Linette Geraud
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#163
03-18-2010, 03:07 PM
Aubrey knocked on Andrew's door, "Andrew,my apologies if I am disturbing you, but I have something of importance to ask you
and it is somewhat of an urgent nature. Well, depending on how you look at it. Please come to my wardroom where I can
discuss it with you abit more privately." Aubrey then stepped back and returned to his room where Thomas, Patrick and Priscilla
were at.

Aubrey looked at his friends as well as his intended. "Well I asked Andrew to meet me here, and from here we will be going to
the Great Cabin."
Aubrey was both feeling abit nervous as well as elated. Priscilla nodded feeling abit nervous as well along with excitement.
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#164
03-18-2010, 04:13 PM
Andrew was hot and sweaty. It had been some time since he had been with a woman and the intense pleasure of it filled his
body. At first Foxall didn't hear the knock at his door as he was lost in the passion of the moment. He knew they could be heard
through the thin walls, but at this moment, he didn't care.
After a second knock, Andrew carefully climbed off of the girl and pulling his breeches up, he opened the door a crack. Standing
before him was Aubrey in proper uniform. Andrew's own appearance was another matter. His hair was disheveled and his body
was covered in beads of sweat.
"Aubrey, what is it?"
"Andrew,my apologies if I am disturbing you, but I have something of importance to ask you and it is somewhat of an urgent
nature. Well, depending on how you look at it. Please come to my wardroom where I can discuss it with you abit more privately."
"Yes, certainly. Its not an issue with the crew is it?"
"No, it's not that," replied the XO.
"Just give me a moment to get straightened up," stated Andrew.
Aubrey then stepped back and returned to his room where Thomas, Patrick and Priscilla were at.
Aubrey looked at his friends as well as his intended. "Well I asked Andrew to meet me here, and from here we will be going to
the Great Cabin."
Aubrey was both feeling abit nervous as well as elated. Priscilla nodded feeling abit nervous as well along with excitement.
Andrew closed the door to his cabin once and turned to look at Jessica lying on the bed. She smiled at him and he grinned back
at her.
"It looks like we'll have to call to end our visit," said Foxall as he began to get dressed. Once his vest and overcoat were back on,
he reattached his sword belt, sword, and then straightened his hair. Leaning down to kiss Jessica one last time, he stood back
up and headed for Aubrey's door. Knocking lightly, he waited for permission to enter.
OFF: I hope you'll forgive me for putting those four words in Aubrey's mouth. :p
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Linette Geraud
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#165
03-18-2010, 04:35 PM
Aubrey smiled seeing Andrew's arrival.
"Thank you Andrew, I'd like you to meet my fiance' Miss Priscilla Thorton." He said introducing his intended.
"Priscilla, this is Mister Andrew Foxall, the final piece in place for our wedding." Aubrey introduced Andrew to Priscilla.
"Now that we are all here, the Captain is waiting for us to arrive at the Great Cabin in due haste, where the wedding will take
place.This is the matter I wished to have you come to, Andrew, I wanted you to be a part of this eventful moment."
Looking at his bride to be, who was blushing a rather comely pink, Aubrey said quietly into Andrew's ear. "I'll tell you how this
came about later."

Then to the others. "Gentlemen, shall we?"
Offering his arm to Priscilla, who took the offered arm, after putting her cloak about her once more, Aubrey led the way to the
Great Cabin, where he knocked at the door to let the Captain know they had arrived.
(OOC: Tis okay, I didn't mind at all, I loved it :) )
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Ragsdale
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Posts: 418
#166
03-18-2010, 08:11 PM
Aubrey smiled seeing Andrew's arrival.
"Thank you Andrew, I'd like you to meet my fiance' Miss Priscilla Thorton." He said introducing his intended.
"Priscilla, this is Mister Andrew Foxall, the final piece in place for our wedding." Aubrey introduced Andrew to Priscilla.
Andrew face instantly blushed a deep crimson at Aubrey's smile. He had to have known what Foxall was doing. As the
introduction of Priscilla sank in, a look of surprised shock came over Andrew's face.
"A wedding?! A pleasure to make your acquaintance miss. This is a most pleasant turn of event. I must say I was not expecting
this."
"Now that we are all here, the Captain is waiting for us to arrive at the Great Cabin in due haste, where the wedding will take
place.This is the matter I wished to have you come to, Andrew, I wanted you to be a part of this eventful moment."
Looking at his bride to be, who was blushing a rather comely pink, Aubrey said quietly into Andrew's ear. "I'll tell you how this
came about later."
Then to the others. "Gentlemen, shall we?"
Offering his arm to Priscilla, who took the offered arm, after putting her cloak about her once more, Aubrey led the way to the
Great Cabin, where he knocked at the door to let the Captain know they had arrived.
Andrew followed along with the other officers closely behind the bridegroom and his lovely bride to be.
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Lupe
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#167
03-18-2010, 08:32 PM
Captain Williams had taken that moment to step forward to the rail and look down on the main deck. He heard the knock behind
him and turned to see a wedding party standing waiting for him to answer the door.
He stepped aft to the cabin door and the party. "Hello, is this the lovely lady that you are asking me to officiate a marriage for."
<tags>
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Linette Geraud
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#168
03-19-2010, 08:24 AM
Aubrey stepped inside moving himself and Priscilla out of the way for the others to step in as well. Aubrey nodded, then said,
"Captain Williams, may I present Miss Priscilla Thorton."

Priscilla gave a graceful deep curtsey, saying, "I am indeed grateful to you, Captain Williams."
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Lupe
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#169
03-19-2010, 08:54 AM
Ruben gave a courtly bow, leg extended, hand behind his back, "Your servant Madam."
Straightening up he opened the door and gestured her in, then followed her through.
As they walked through the dinning room Ruben stared at his finest cambric and satin napkins sitting like a flock on the large
table, his napkins that were to be kept for visiting Admirals and Royalty. They were all swans.
He walked into the Great Cabin where the boys were drinking the last of the six bottles of wine. He was not exactly sure what to
do, he had intended for them to stay separate from the debauchery. He had intended for them to only have one glass of wine
each.
"Boys, you are in the presents of a lady, make your bow and act like gentlemen." He called to the group.
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Linette Geraud
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Posts: 4429
#170
03-19-2010, 03:18 PM
Priscilla smiled at Andrew, feeling less nervous and more confident she was doing the right thing. "It is a pleasure to meet you"
she said.
When walking into the Great Cabin and seeing the display of swans upon the table, Priscilla was delighted to see them. To her,
they were a good omen.
Priscilla bowed to those present in the Great Cabin. then motioning towards the table.
"Why Captain those are beautiful, and something I had wished to see on my wedding day. All ready my wishes are coming true."
Priscilla beamed."I do apologize for the inconvienience this is giving you.'
Then turned to Aubrey holding onto his arm. "Oh Aubrey, this is going to be a time to remember and I'm glad you are not cross
with me."
Aubrey smiled at Priscilla though beneath his smiles, he was concerned. However like what his mother and father had told him,
sometimes the day had to be seized and this was one of those days.
"I wish to thank you all again for being here." Aubrey stated to those present "And as was stated earlier,this isn't a forced
marriage but one that both of us consent to." He looked at Ruben, waiting for what was to occur next.
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Jon Allen
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#171
03-19-2010, 09:29 PM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson stepped into the Great Cabin behind the groom and bride, moving off to one side as he removed his
hat and tucked it under his arm. The red-coated Marine Lieutenant was still smiling broadly.
Thomas had attended a wedding just recently, his sister's wedding. Memories of that pleasant little church ceremony were fresh
in his mind as he watched and observed his first wedding ceremony aboard ship.

When Aubrey or Priscilla looked his way, he gave them a very formal nod, but that informal grin remained on the Officer's face.
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Lupe
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#172
03-23-2010, 11:16 AM
"Ma'am, Mister Rutherford, I will need you two to stand in front of the desk here." Ruben pointed to the visitor side of the desk as
he took the unopened keg of petti-fours and empty bottles off the desk.
"Aubrey, you on the right, Ma'am, you on the left." Ruben instructed. Waiting for them to get all situated. "Boys, this is a wedding,
you will be silent and respectful of your Senior Officer on his wedding day."
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Linette Geraud
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#173
03-23-2010, 05:40 PM
Aubrey and Priscilla took the indicated places, Aubrey could feel his heart begin to pound and he could tell that Priscilla was
feeling the excitement as well.
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Dorella Allerod
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#174
03-23-2010, 09:27 PM
Burke could not be silent, there was something missing.
"Wait Captain!" He said abruptly, he grabbed the nearest swan napkin and gave it a flick in the air, unfolding it. He gave no mind
to the surrounding for the moment as he folded the napkin.
Burke knew a bride needs some sort of flower, or it wasn't a wedding. He was also glad he had gotten the boys to make swans
because he had made her wedding special without planning it. He was right pleased with himself.
He gave a giggle and a boyish smile and handed the bride the rose which was formed from the satin napkin. Burke hoped she
was pleased, because he was.
"Sir, Captain," he said half slurred. "I believe the bride is ready now." He took a step back, clasping his hands behind his back
and stood straight and proud as he awaited this wonderful wedding.
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Linette Geraud
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#175
03-24-2010, 08:56 AM
Aubrey was impressed with the skill Burke had displayed, and he gave Burke a nod of thanks. Priscilla's reaction was a bit more
than that. She was touched by Burkes gesture and Priscilla's eyes filled with tears of joy and gratitude. She stepped over to
Burke giving him a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek whispering,

"Thank you, you have added to what is even more, a perfect time for me." A kiss on Burke's other cheek, then Priscilla went
back to stand near Aubrey, smiling.She was now ready to proceed, holding onto her rose with one hand and her other arm linked
with Aubrey's.
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Lupe
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#176
03-24-2010, 01:38 PM
Ruben opened the book of Common Prayer to the appropriate spot and scanned it over.
He looked at Aubrey, "Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford," he then read from the book, "Wilt thou have this woman to thy wedded
wife, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour, and keep her
in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all other, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?"
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Linette Geraud
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#177
03-24-2010, 02:01 PM
Aubrey looked into the eyes of Priscilla, who looked into his. then looking back at Ruben he spoke clearly, "I will do so" he
answered.
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Lupe
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#178
03-24-2010, 02:05 PM
Ruben nodded, so far so good, he thought to himself, and none of the boys had puked themself from drinking to much. For the
first wedding he officiated it was going well.
"Miss Priscilla Thorton," Ruben turned to the bride, he didn't blame Aubrey at all even though it was death to the career of any
Officer to be married before Post rank. "Wilt thou have this man to thy wedded husband, to live together after God's ordinance in
the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou obey him, and serve him, love, honour, and keep him in sickness and in health; and,
forsaking all other, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?" He read from his book again.
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Linette Geraud
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#179
03-24-2010, 02:33 PM
In a crystal clear voice, full of confidence and love, Priscilla answered, "I do and I will."
Come what may after Aubrey sails to what ever lay in store for him, Priscilla still felt that what she had done was the right thing to
do. She will do her best to be like Penelope, waiting for her man to come home, where ever that might be.
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Lupe
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#180
03-24-2010, 02:51 PM
"Forasmuch as Aubrey and Priscilla have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and
this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth either to other; I pronounce that they be Man and Wife together, In
the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen." Ruben read aloud.
He then looked up, "Congratulations to both of you, turn please and face the others."
He waited till they were facing the ships Officers and boys, "May I now present to you who are present, Mister and Misses
Rutherford."
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Linette Geraud
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#181
03-24-2010, 03:00 PM
Mr.and Mrs. Rutherford turn to face the others. Aubrey bowed and Priscilla curtsied gracefully, her very countenance shining as if
a light from the heavens above, touched her face.
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Linette Geraud
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#182
03-25-2010, 09:28 AM
After presenting themselves as husband and wife, Aubrey pulled his bride into his arms and gave Priscilla a heartfelt kiss. He
whispered to her,
"You have made me the happiest man alive."
Priscilla smiled, and held Aubrey close then called his attention that they were still in the great cabin. He looked over at the
others.
"I am indeed grateful for you being here." He said to Andrew, Thomas and Patrick, then he turned to Ruben and those that were
there. "Thank you, thank you"
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Lupe
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#183
03-25-2010, 04:14 PM
Ruben smiled, he then turned and unlocked his writing desk and pulled out an ink horn and quill. There had been a paper and
the ships logs with his prayer book, now he filled in the paper and turned it, "I need both of your signatures here, and in the
ship's log books."
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Linette Geraud
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#184
03-25-2010, 04:42 PM
Aubrey and Priscilla sign the paper, making it official of them being married.Aubrey returned the pen back to Ruben. Then they

step back, to give him room.
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Lupe
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#185
03-25-2010, 08:02 PM
Ruben handed the paper to Aubrey and closed the log, putting it, the book of common prayer, ink horn, and quill back in his desk
and re-locking it.
Then coming out from behind his desk he kissed the bride like a father kissing his daughter and turned to Aubrey.
"Mister Rutherford, you will take Mrs. Rutherford ashore, this ship is no place for a gentle woman of breeding. You will take my
barge, and barge crew, you and they will have shore leave till four bells in the forenoon watch.
He shook Aubrey's hand palming five guineas into it. "Take Mrs. Rutherford to a fine inn, give her a nice wedding supper and
breakfast."
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Linette Geraud
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#186
03-25-2010, 11:02 PM
Priscilla blushed, giving Ruben a hug and a kiss on the cheek. "Thank you Captain." she said.
Aubrey was pleasantly surprised, when he received the five guineas"Th-thank you, Captain Williams" He shook the captain's
hand. "I will see you tomorrow then."
Priscilla gave a heartfelt hug and a kiss on the cheek as well, to Patrick, Thomas and Andrew. "Thank you for making this a
wonderful day for my husband."
Patrick blushed at this demonstration from Priscilla's hug.
A round of handshakes, Aubrey said to Patrick, Andrew and Thomas, "I am indeed grateful to you. I will see you tomorrow."
With out further ado, Aubrey, Priscilla left the ship with the Captain's barge and barge crew. Once ashore, the barge crew was
allowed to go on leave. The Rutherfords got a coach once inside, Aubrey pulled out a small box and opened it up. Inside was a
finely crafted gold ring with jade as leaves, diamonds as petals and a fire opal in the center.
"Do forgive me Darling, I had forgotten I had it in my pocket until after the ceremony." he said putting the ring on her left finger.
Priscilla kissed Aubrey, "Its all right my love." she said. "It was lovely for the Captain to let us come ashore for our wedding
night."
"Yes it is, I am serving under one of the best men I have ever served under. He is someone of rare quality and I owe him a great
deal." Aubrey replied.
"Where to?" the coachman asked the two newlyweds.
Priscilla whispered the name of a fine inn and Aubrey conveyed it to the coachman. The coachmand smartly cracked his whip
and the coach moved forward. Aubrey held Priscilla's hands all the way, kissing her lovely lips from time to time.
Once at the inn, a room was gotten and the two newlyweds went to their room, Aubrey sweeping Priscilla into his arms and
carrying her over the threshold. Feeling a bit famished the pair went down to the dining room and got a nice dinner.
While they were eating there was a squeal and a" Priscilla is that you?"
Priscilla turned around and to her surprise, it was her friends who had come to have supper. Melinda one of Priscilla's friends
and having rather sharp eyes, noticed the ring and grabbed her hand. "Priscilla did you get married? You eloped!" her eyes
widened. "So that is why you went to see Aubrey." The other girls came over to see as well.

Aubrey smiled at the happiness Priscilla exhibited seeing her friends. One of the other girls,who seemed abit more level headed
than the others, her name was Candice, drew her friends away saying. "Now girls, they just got married and lets leave them be
while they eat." the girls nodded and Priscilla gave them a hug promising to see them once Aubrey headed back to the ship.
"We'll make certain that we are with you." the girls said.
Aubrey and Priscilla had their dinner, when it came time to pay for the dinner, their money wasn't accepted. They were told that it
was all ready paid for. Aubrey was surprised, again another astounding piece to happen on this day. Priscilla was pleased as
well, and hazarded a guess it may have been her friends who payed for the meal. "My gratitude to them as well."
"They will be making certain I get home all right, and to stand by my side in case my parents are not too pleased with our
eloping." Priscilla said.
Aubrey nodded, "Well, hopefully they will not be too angry."
"Oh I don't think they will be, after all Mother and Father eloped as well, even though the elopement was arranged." Priscilla said
with a twinkle in her eyes.
Aubrey stared at Priscilla then threw back his head and laughed. "Priscilla my darling, even now there is indication that you had
this prepared in advance. What would you have done if I sent you off back to shore with out marrying you?"
"I hoped that wouldn't have happened and happily I was correct." Priscilla said with a smile.
Aubrey took her hands and kissed them both. "My love, I do hope you will be safe while I am gone." he said.
Once dinner was finished, the newlyweds went back to their room, closing the door behind them. The two candles that were lit
were blown out. And thus the newlyweds had their wedding night. Next morning breakfast was sent up to them, the newlyweds
made the most of their morning, then giving the certificate to Priscilla and getting messages written to her parents and his. It was
getting near time for Aubrey to return. Priscilla along with her friends escorted Aubrey back to where he was to meet the
Captain's barge crew. With tearful goodbyes from Priscilla and leaving her with her friends, Aubrey returned to the ship, in high
spirits, a heartful of song.
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Jon Allen
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#187
03-27-2010, 10:01 AM
Thomas congratulated the obviously excited couple as they made their way out of the ceremony. Standing on the Quarterdeck
by a lamp, he watched the ship's barge take the married couple away from the Terpsichore to shore. As they got farther away
the only sign of them was a slightly dancing lantern held by one of the boat crew.
A young Marine appeared at Thomas's side, holding a heavy coat.
"Ah, thank you Private," Thomas said, taking the coat and putting it on. It was an instant improvement against the cold air.
As he adjusted his hat, he said to the young man, "Ever thought about getting married private?"
The young Marine seemed to consider that, then said, "Me mum wouldn't have it any other way sir."
"I bet she wouldn't," Thomas said. "Just make sure it's a good english girl, remember those naked native women are only good
for one thing."
The young Marine smirked, "Yes sir."
Thomas gave the young man a nod and he left the Quarterdeck.
This was the second wedding Thomas had attended in as many months. The other was his sister's wedding in Oxfordshire. That
one had all the formalities of course, a proper setting, a collection of family members, even music.
Yet, Thomas somehow felt that this impromptu ceremony was far more sincere, more loving, than that properly planned and
executed celebration.

What was "a good wedding?" What was a good love for that matter? Or bad love? In all his life Thomas endured his share of
young loves, yet still felt like it was a part of life he barely understood. Many aspects of love were a taboo topic, and the
information sharing between boys often left much to speculation and rumor. Salty sailors and marines tended to have a very
purpose-driven view of love and romance. Yet Thomas had met his share of happy couples who seemed positively like a match
made by god.
Was there a wrong to one, and a right to the other?
Thomas didn't know. A master of war he was, but he possessed no mastery of cupid's skill with the bow.
He shrugged to himself and turned to inspect the stars filling the night's sky.
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Mevynn
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Posts: 1965
#188
03-27-2010, 01:33 PM
Sam still admiring the funny swans on the table looked up as Mister Rutherford returned, with not only Mister Carson but also
with two men, Sam didn't know the names of. And what was that? They had brought along twin sisters? They even were dressed
identical. How could Mister Rutherford even keep them apart? And he was going to marry them both?
Sam frowned as he looked at his glass, there was still some wine in it and emptied it quickly. As Captain Williams told the group
of boys to act like a gentleman, he bowed twice towards the beautiful ladies. He then watched as the ceremony took place, only
interrupted by Burke who gave a bunch of roses to one of the ladies. He frowned again, he had only seen Burke making one
bouquet and yet both sisters were now holding a bouquet each.
During the ceremony as he thought no-one was watching, Sam poured the remaining wine of one of the bottles in his glass. His
glass was only half full, but the drink made him feel warm inside.
With a broad smile on his face he managed to slur, "Congratulations" towards the newlyweds as they headed outside. Was
Mister Rutherford married to the two ladies now? Sam scratched behind his ear and hiccuped as he finished his glass again,
only this time, something didn't feel right.
The next moment he was running outside, held on to his hat as he struggled towards the railing, he bend over and most of the
booze he had been consuming ended up in the sea. With a bad taste in his mouth and too embarrassed to face the others he
held on to what he could to keep his balance and went below deck. Feeling too sick to struggle with his hammock, he just lay
down underneath it and closed his eyes. Hoping the rocking of the ship would finally stop so he could get some sleep.
ooc: Too much wine, Sam started to see double ;-)
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mgh_fond
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#189
03-28-2010, 01:37 PM
On deck of the Le Trajan
Foggy morning
Calais harbor
Francois was in good spirits, he wouldn't let a little fog blight his mood on this day for his ship, the 74 gun Le Trajan, was finally
heading out to sea! Too long had they been penned in port due to the English blockade awaiting both orders and an opportunity
to break out. The captain and officers were determined, the crew almost eager to begin their voyage.
The question was voyage to where? That Francois did not know, probably only the captain and a few trusted officers knew that
answer. For aspirants (midshipmen) and ordinary crew, all that was left was the rumor mill. Some said the destination was the
Caribbean with it's warm waters and many islands. Others said it would be off the coast of Ireland as rumors always flew about

that the French were going to land an expedition there to help the oppressed Irish throw off the English yoke. Francois doubted
that though as there had been no news of troops assembling along the coast and such major enterprises were impossible to
keep quiet.
Then there was wild talk of treasure, that they were to be going to seize some valuable treasure somewhere. Now that one,
Francois thought completely outlandish, what were they, some kind of pirates from a past century? No, Francois was confident
the Admiralty had better use to make of ships of the line.
Actually Francois did not care that much about the where and why. He was just glad to be able to go on another voyage. He had
joined the Navy to sail about the world, experience it's many wonders...and yes, dangers too. He did not join to rot in a French
harbor.
"VACHON!"
At first Francois did not reply, his thoughts on the near future but suddenly he realized that was the captain's voice just off to his
right. The great man was standing next to the helmsman, hands behind his back, as befits the master of his ship. Francois
turned.
"Aspirant Vachon, are you deaf, lad?" the captain growled, looking now right at the young man.
"Vachot, captain...my name is Vachot," Francois risked pointing out.
"Errr...yes, of course....Vachot," the captain seemed annoyed but had something specific on his mind so he proceeded without
comment.
"This damned fog is both a blessing and a curse. We can now leave at long last but seeing exactly where we are going is
another thing. You snap to it and go up above. Your eyes are no doubt better than mine. Let's make use of them," the captain
ordered.
Francois thought that this fog was so thick, one's eyes scarcely made any difference but he was not about to contradict the man,
he nodded.
"Oui, captain! I shall go forward..." he started to head toward the bow of the huge vessel.
"No, Vachon...wait!" the captain bellowed out.
Francois frowned and spun about, "Vachot, sir."
"Yes, of course it is...go up the mizzenmast so we can better hear you. Tell us anything you can see, lad," the captain declared.
Francois thought the bow of the ship would allow him to see things more quickly that might be in their path but again, he was not
in charge, "Yes sir!"
Approaching the big mast, he decided he could climb more comfortably without the tight midshipman's jacket, even though that
did give him a modicum of warmth from the cold sea air. But safety before comfort. He'd climbed rigging before and, while he
was agile and good at it, he'd seen the grim results of mishaps as a sailor would often plunge to his death. In fact...he had a
second thought, and suddenly removed his shoes too. He could get the best grip with his feet.
"Ahem, lad. Are you going to disrobe for us or climb?" one glib second lieutenant smiled bemused at the scene.
"No sir...I mean ...I'm going to climb!" Francois turned away from the man, rolled his eyes, then started up.
He wasn't sure what exactly he was expected to see in this thick soup of fog but he would do his best.
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Lupe
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#190
03-28-2010, 03:37 PM
O'Mally stepped out of the Great Cabin after the wedding, he was going to take Aubrey advice and write to his father. But first
the ship, he took over the deck, it was Lieutenant Rutherford watch for a few more hours and Patrick would take it for him.
He was a little jealous of Aubrey, that woman seemed very fine indeed, maybe one day Patrick would find one like her. He
snorted to himself, and one day he would be an Admiral, and fly his flag at the Main Mast.

He eyed a few of the un-attached women on the main deck, choosing which one he would take with him to his cot. There was a
blond girl, not to tall, but standing very straight, if she was still un-attached when he got off this watch in two more bells, he would
take her.
O'Mally started composing the letter to his father in his head as he quietly walked the Quarterdeck.
Dear Father,
You and I have said somethings to each other that we should not have, I wish to tell you of my regret in doing so.
I have made Lieutenant and have been posted to the frigate Terpsichore. My sea career has been a credit to the family name
and my seniority is high enough now to be the Second Lieutenant in this ship.

We are about to embark on a journey far foreign, and a chance to see the far side of the world. When I return, I would like to re-
meet your acquaintance.

Your Son,
Patrick
He knew it was not the best but he could polish it once he wrote it down.
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Lupe
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#191
03-29-2010, 04:58 PM
[3 bells in the forenoon watch, the barge belonging to HMS Terpsichore]
The Coxswain and barge crew were dissipated and crapulous from a very hard night of wenching and drinking. That only made
the Marine standing there look more prim, and ship shape. They were waiting for Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford.
Aubrey left the ladies one more kiss goodbye from his wife and walked up to those waiting for him, they looked like they had
wonderful night of it. "Good day gentlemen, are we prepared to get back on-board the ship?" he asked. Looking towards the
marine, Aubrey asked. "Is there something I can help you with?"
"I have a message for the Captain of the Terpsichore from the Admiral, your boat's crew said you were going out there directly."
The Marine stated.
"That is correct, I'm Lieutenant Rutherford, first officer of the Terpsichore; I can deliver it to the Captain." Aubrey said. The
mention of a message that was specifically for the Captain, it certainly piqued his interest.
"I have to deliver it into his own hand. Will you take me out to the ship?" The Marine said solidly.
Aubrey nodded and motioned for the barge crew to get ready." Very well, you will be able to come with me back to the ship."
Aubrey stated. Once on the barge and headed towards the Terpsichore, Aubrey waved farewell to his wife once more, then
turned to face the direction they were going. He wanted to quiz the marine about the message, but he restrained himself; it was
the Captain's business.
Once the barge arrived at the ship, Aubrey motioned to the Marine to climb on board, he followed right behind. Once onboard
Aubrey escorted the Marine to the Captain, "Captain Williams, I have returned and have brought someone with me, he says he
has a message for you and is under orders to deliver it to you personally."
The Marine pulled a letter with the black wax fouled anchor on it, a receipt and pencil. Ruben signed for the letter and nodded at
the two men, "if you don't mind..." he walked away from them to the windows across stern of the ship. He broke the seal and
read the letter.
After reading it twice Ruben walked back to the pair of men. "Mister Rutherford, all women ashore now."
"Aye Captain." Aubrey walked away and called for the women to go ashore with all due haste. He didn't allow any arguments,
the women were checked to make certain they didn't have any contraband as was ordered the day before.
Turning to the Marine, "do you know why?"

"No Sir, I do not."
Ruben came out on deck, "We will bring the ship back to the wharf to pick up cargo. As soon as the women are off the ship we
will sling our hook and carry her over there."
Aubrey nodded and proceeded to get things done, calling out orders, urging the men to proceed with their work.
[The loading of the... special cargo]
The Terpsichore eased against the wharf. Seamen dropped clove hitches on the bollards while others put a brow from the dock
to the deck. As all was made fast Ruben looked at the waiting solders. muskets loaded bayonets fixed. They were standing
guard over a heavily loaded wagon. The note that had told Captain Williams to bring the Terpsichore to the wharf had also said
to prepare to load 500 pounds of valuable cargo, and that he would be entrusted with it. Now he was wondering what that cargo
really was.
The 18th Foot was waiting for his men to unload the wagon. Ruben sighed. "Mister Rutherford, see to it those cases are stowed
in a safe place, my storage rooms would be the best I believe."
Aubrey watched silently as the Terpsichore came to a stop, the sight of the men waiting to deliver something to the ship and the
noticed 'feeling' of intensity could be felt as well.
"Aye Captain Williams" Aubrey answered, directing the men towards the Captain's storage rooms. He wondered as to what was
in the boxes as well.
A chain of solders came out and grabbed the boxes, there was only ten of them and twenty men so they made short work of it. A
Sargent was detailing men to boxes, two men to a box. How they moved and how the rope handles creaked and stretched
Ruben guessed the boxes at fifty or seventy-five pounds each.
He looked closely at the boxes, they were not overly large, but stoutly built wood cases, with an elaborate seal on the lids, to
show they had been sealed and would be broken if the lid was tampered with.
A Colonel walked over to him, his aide carrying a large portfolio of papers. "Captain Williams? I am here to transfer these boxes
to your care. I need your signature that you received all fifty of them still sealed and undamaged."
Ruben looked at the man, "What's in them?" He asked
"That is not my business." The Colonel said a little haughtily, "and by the paperwork, not yours either."
The loading of this special cargo, had those onboard abit intrigued, questions which would be un-answered were raised in their
minds. Aubrey made certain that people were out of the way, in order to make the transfer quick and easy. The boxes were
mesmerizing to watch, all eyes on every box as they were lifted, then taken below.
There were murmurs and whispers, scratching of heads, all still riveted to the spot they were in, just watching.
As they were watching one of the rope handles broke and the box tumbled down on the stone dock. It burst open and gold bars
tumbled out of it in a ringing pile. The men carrying it stopped and stared mesmerized by the shining pile.
Ruben looked in tired anger. "Pass the word for the carpenter." He looked at the rail of the ship where the carpenter was
standing, "re-seal that box as soon as it's reloaded." He looked at the solders that had been carrying it and snapped, "don't just
stand there gaping like a halibut on a pier, reload that box now!"
The Colonel was about to say something when Ruben turned on him. "Give me those papers, we need to make an addendum to
them that your men dropped a box causing it to burst."
The dropping of the box, caught the attention of those closest to the railing, word was sent back to those who weren't close
enough to see.
Gold, they were transporting gold! It made some men to wonder just what it was meant for.
Aubrey heard the whispers of the men and asked what was up. When he heard about the gold, Aubrey was curious but kept his
thoughts to himself.
As all the commotion was going on midships four men went over the bows, disappearing into the crowd, and were seen no more.

The ship's carpenter came down with his tools and closed the box, re-nailing the lid on tight, he checked the rope handle and
shook his head to the solder, "you will have to do it the hard way mate." Then gathering up his tools he made his report to the
Captain, knuckling his forehead, "box is sealed Sir, but the handle is broken, I would have to take the box apart to replace it."
Ruben nodded, "very good, don't worry about the handle."
As he rejoined his mess mates he told them, "it us gold alright, fity pounds of it, and the handle was cut, that lobster dropped it
accidental-on-a-purpose."
Aubrey glanced over towards Ruben, then proceeded to make certain the rest of the boxes were placed in a secure position,
once the last box was secure he went back on deck and reported.
"All is secure Captain." Aubrey said saluting.
Ruben signed the papers and took half of them. "Very good Mister Rutherford." He looked at the haughty Colonel, "I believe our
work here is done."
Without another word to the Colonel Ruben turned and walked up the brow, "we will cast off and warp out to the fairway Aubrey,"
he said as he walked by on his way to the Cabin.
"Aye Aye Captain. " Aubrey answered then as Ruben walked to his cabin, Aubrey bellowed out the orders "Bring in the anchor,
Raise the sails, Men we're headed out to sea!"
In the Great Cabin he opened his locked desk and filed away the papers, he was not pleased, five hundred pounds of gold, he
was not sure if he was glad he knew what was in the boxes or if he would have preferred to still be ignorant. He pulled out the
sealed orders and again looked at it closely, he wanted to open it so bad, he wondered what he needed a quarter ton of gold for.
He felt the ship moving across the water, and could hear the orders on the deck above him, he would know soon enough.
"Steward," he called out, "bring a pot of coffee." He waited a moment then rang his bell and bellowed, "Steward!"
Burke heard the bellows from the Captain and ran look for the Steward, he couldn't imagine why the Steward didn't hop to. In a
panic Burke ran to the Captain's Cabin and said, "Sir, I can't find the Steward. Um... I can put a pot of coffee on for you, if you
wish."
"Hell and Death," Ruben said testily, putting his sealed orders back in his desk and locking it. "Yes, make me a pot if you please
son, and pass the word for the Steward."
"Uh, um... pass what word Sir?" Burke stammered wide-eyed.
Ruben looked at him sharply then remembered this boy had only been to sea for a few days. "You tell the sentry at the door to
pass the word for the Steward and he will yell it out really loud then everyone on the ship will repeat it till the Steward knows,
where ever he is, and he will know to come to the Captain's Cabin on the run." He explained carefully, then smiled, "if the word is
passed for you to report to an officer you do so at a run."
"Yes Sir, Captain Sir." Burke said and stood while pretending he knew what was going on, and hoped for a quick reply so he
could cover his ignorance.
"In the Navy we say aye Sir, not yes Sir, and you don't have to repeat it twice." Ruben smiled, "now cut along to the Marine just
outside of the door and tell him the Captain is passing the word for his Steward then go make coffee."
"AYE SIR!" Burke said loudly "I won't let you down." Then he went out of the door and told the Marine, "Captain is passing the
word for the Steward." Then Burke went and put the coffee on.
The Marine sentry bellowed out, "Captain passing the word for the Captain's Steward!" He grinned to himself, the rumor going
around is that the Steward ran.
Ruben sat down at his desk, and thought for a moment, then called to the sentry outside the door, "Pass the word for the First
Lieutenant."
The Marine sentry bellowed out, "The Captain passes the word for the First Lieutenant!" He grinned, the fat would be in fire now.
Aubrey heard the call for him and immediately placed O'Mally in charge of the deck. "Mr O'Mally you have the deck."
Then Aubrey was moving quickly to go see the Captain at post haste.

"Captain, reporting as called for sir!" Aubrey said standing at attention. He did notice that the steward wasn't there yet. as was
called for by the Captain.
"We will rest at single anchor for a favorable wind, we might even tide it out, the tide turns just after midnight tonight." Ruben told
his First Lieutenant, "I don't know about the weather, it looks like a sea fog will roll in. Have the signal gun ready for use."
He looked around, "have a seat Aubrey, I have coffee coming, you can split it with me."
Aubrey nodded and took a seat, " Aye, I'll have the signal gun ready. We've had a bit of excitement these last few days." Aubrey
remarked.
Ruben nodded, "thanks by the way, for fishing out my Second Lieutenant from the deep, I thought I had lost him there." He
looked at Aubrey, "your a pretty good swimmer aren't you, I can stay a float, for a while. Wouldn't be the wisest to jump in after
someone else." He grinned, "then you would have to fish both of us out."
Aubrey grinned in return, "My father made certain that I knew how to swim, said I'd be needing it, plus... they had a devil of a
time keeping me out of the water. He used to joke that I was part fish. Besides, I didn't want to lose O'Mally, he's a good man and
sailor."
[on deck]
The Corporal of the boat, an enforcer and a snitch by trade came up to the Second Lieutenant and knuckled his forehead, "Sir,
there is a rumor going around the ship that Thomas Franklin, John Miller, Joe Smithe, and Marine Private Collins have run while
we were tied up to the pier."
O'Mally swore, he used all the words he had learned in a lifetime of sea. He shook his head, there would be hell to pay if it was
true. "Ok, thank-you."
He turned to the Midshipman of the watch, "jump down to the Captain's Cabin and tell him, with my duty, that the ship's Corporal
reports four run seaman, Thomas Franklin, John Miller, Joe Smithe, and Marine Private Collins."
[Great Cabin]
There was a knocking at the door, Ruben called "come in." and Midshipman Steward came in. "Lieutenant O'Mally's duty and
ship's Corporal reports four run seaman, Thomas Franklin, John Miller, Joe Smithe, and Marine Private Collins."
Ruben swore, Franklin was his Steward, Miller was the lob-lolly boy, Joe was a topmen and able seaman at that and Private
Collins... Marines usually don't run.
"Very good." Ruben said and Midshipman Steward left.
"Aubrey, we will have to muster the hands this evening before dark and see for sure who has ran." Ruben said, "as soon as we
drop anchor would be best."
Aubrey nodded in agreement. "Must have gotten off the ship during the shipment of the gold. Definitely something mysterious is
going on here."
"Yes, and I don't much like it." Ruben scowled, "did you notice how that handle broke when the most people would be able to see
it, both on the ship and the shore? Just a little to convenient to me."
"Unfortunately I didn't see that happening. I was making certain things were shipshape in your storeroom but, I do agree with
you, it seems too convienient. Wonder what is going on and if we are dealing with something of great importance for such a
display to be made." Aubrey frowned as he thought about this.
Burke folded two napkins into swans and placed them on the tray along with two cups and the pot of coffee. He smiled to
himself, he loved his swans.
Walking into the Great Cabin he felt a touch of unease. He placed the tray on the table. "I hope it's to your liking Sirs."
Aubrey nodded in approval, the napkins folded into swans was a rather nice touch. It reminded him of origami that he has seen
before.
Ruben looked up at him, "Burke, if rumor is true, I will make you my Steward, what do you think about that?"
"Rumor?" Burke questioned big eyed.

"The rumor is that Steward Franklin has ran." Ruben told Burke.
"Oh, well that would make sense as to why I could not find him earlier. Well Captain um... I think I should like to be your Steward,
if need be. But I can only hope to live up to Franklin's standards." Burke replied.
Ruben laughed, "Franklin was a sneak thief, and he ran, I hope you live well beyond his standards. You live up to your own
standards, or better, just ask yourself, what would Nelson do?"
Burke cleared his throat and squirmed a bit. "Well Sir, I would do what Nelson would do, so shall I be your Steward?" Burke
figured that was a pretty good come back, at least he hoped so, after all he was winging it, or was he, he wasn't even sure. But it
sounded good in his mind.
Ruben looked at him, "we won't know till the muster of the crew will we now?" He looked at his new Steward, or he will be,
probably if rumor was true. "Now cut along and see if we have any petit fours to go with this coffee."
"Aye Sir." Burke happily ran to find what the Captain wanted. It gave him a bit of relief, he had felt a bit in a hot seat.
"Captain, if what they say is true about the four men leaving, it looks like you've got the makings of a fine steward in young
Burke." Aubrey commented.
"If it's true, I won't have a choice will I?" Ruben said dryly. "We should be able to get out of here tonight... if the fog isn't to thick.
Let me pour you a cup of coffee, do you take milk and sugar with that?"
"I'll take both, please." Aubrey answered. "No you won't have any choice on making him steward then. Burke does make a fine
pot of coffee, though and he does have fine manners and from what I can tell."picking up one of the swan shaped napkins,"it
looks like he's got a bit of an artist in him as well."
"Yes, it breaks my heart..." Ruben picked up the other napkin and broke the swans neck and spread it out on his lap, "to have to
do that." He poured coffee for them both and added a bit of milk and sugar for Aubrey. "I expect it is true, and we should count
ourselves lucky that no more then four ran." He sipped his coffee then looked at Aubrey, any ideas why we just loaded a quarter
of a ton of gold on the Terpsichore?"
"Or why the handle to one of the boxes was purposely cut? I'm thinking we are possibly part of a secret mission, and we are
being watched. What that secret mission could be... I wouldn't have the foggiest notion. I do recall several occasions when
serving on the East Indiaman Arniston, that quite a number of boxes were brought on board to make purchases for interested
private parties. It was a secret then, as it is now." Aubrey undid his swan with a flourish and then took a sip of his coffee enjoying
the bitter sweet taste of it.
"Have you ever served under one of those paranoid Captains, the kind that walk around with a loaded pistol and always fear that
the crew or his Officers are going to mutiny and take away his ship?" Ruben smiled that faint smile of a man that lived through it
and can look back and thank his Gods that he is out of it, "I am starting to wonder if it's commissions like this that twist those
men into that."
Aubrey thought over what Ruben had stated, recalling his own service. "Well Captain, I have come across some Captains who
acted that way. My Uncle was one of those... perhaps not as bad as some, but it really makes for a man to get a bit jumpy,
especially if its your own blood relative. From what you just stated, it sounds like you have served under someone who was very
paranoid. Not all Captains are like that when getting secretive commissions; it all depends on the caliber of man. You sir, do not
seem to be the type who would become a man like that. I certainly would hate to see you becoming your own worse nightmare."
"Just one, when I was a Master's Mate in the Methuselah, now that was an old ship." He smiled at his own joke, "We docked at
Port Royal and he went ashore never to return... That was one case of the Yellow Jack everyone was glad to see happen."
Aubrey laughed, "Tis good he didn't come back then." Another sip of his coffee then looked at Ruben, "Once all is said and done
we're off to where we're supposed to go."
Ruben shrugged, "your guess is as good as mine, I know we go South, that is all. The sealed orders are not to be opened till we
are South of 8' latitude."
"Then South it is." Aubrey said then finished his coffee, standing up he nodded towards the Captain, "I think all we're waiting for
are your orders."

"Consider it made," Ruben stated, "ride at single anchor well out in the fairway, then muster the hands. We will tide it out at the
turn."
Last edited by Lupe; 03-29-2010, 07:46 PM.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#192
03-29-2010, 05:55 PM
On board the Albacore, English Channel
The rough seas of the preceding days seemed a distant memory as Marie looked into the blanket of fog that lay on the dark
waters of the English Channel. The Albacore rocked gently, making the best of a gentle wind as it continued en route to
Plymouth. This would be their last stop -- a week or two in Plymouth, then back home to London.
Marie sighed as she considered that, knowing that this was likely to be her last adventure for quite some time. She knew that
while her father had been indulgent of her somewhat odd enthusiasms (or "unladylike tendencies" as her governess called
them), it would soon come to an end and she would be expected to marry.
Now, it wasn't that she was utterly and completely opposed to the entire notion of marriage. In fact, much to her surprise, in the
last couple of years she'd begun to notice that some men were quite handsome indeed, and were interesting in a way that they
had not been before. Of course, she was wise enough to keep these thoughts to herself, partly out of fear of rebuke and partly
out of a nagging sense of shame or embarrassment. While she wasn't interested in being all proper and delicate, she also didn't
want to be a trollop. Mostly she found that she was simply envious of men and their freedom and was a little annoyed at her own
lot in life.
As she stood leaning against the gunwale pondering these things, and reminding herself that self-pity wasn't useful to anyone, a
cry went out from high on the mizzen mast.
"Ahoy! Ship to larboard!"
She looked and managed to make out the ghostly form of another ship a short distance to the south.
Men began scurrying around. The captain and his lieutenants came on deck and began shouting orders, the strain in their voices
obvious. After several minutes of watching the men, Marie turned to look for the other ship and could see that it was visibly
closer. She squinted and made out its colors: a blue flag with a white cross and a yellow fleur de lis.
French Privateers.
Her heart began to pound in her chest. They'd not expected this sort of trouble so close to England. Was the French vessel lost?
Was the Albacore lost?
While Marie watched the scene unfold, eyes wide, her father called out to her, "Marie! Viens vite! Come quickly!"
She did not hesitate to obey, and ran below decks, slamming the door behind her.
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Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#193
03-29-2010, 11:06 PM
The gentle rocking of the Terpsichore against the waves was felt and heard below-decks as a soft sway and a slight creaking of
the framing.
Below-decks, near the ship's armory, a Marine Lieutenant in his red uniform with black facings paced back and forth.
The look on Thomas Carson's face was that of barely contained anger. An odd sight for the Marine Officer, who always seemed
to have a smile on his face. There was no smile now, he was burning with fury. The gentle glow of a lantern cast a glow on his
face that only seemed to inflame the rage to that of a red devil.

Colour Sergeant Patrick Bourne stood silently and waited with his shako tucked under his arm. His eyes were locked forward
and he looked absolutely stoic as he took the on-and-off verbal lashing that had now lasted nearly two minutes.
"Run off," Thomas repeated aloud. "Run off...I can't bloody believe it."
Thomas shook his head again and then said, "And you told me the matter was well in hand."
Colour Sergeant Bourne didn't respond, like a statue he waited.
"Well what happened then, answer me man!" Thomas asked with a sharp sting to his voice.
"Sir, Private Collins received a letter from one of the women who came aboard," Bourne responded. "It made the lad quite
upset."
"I know that," Thomas replied. "But you spoke to him?"
"I did sir," Bourne replied. "I took corrective action, two extra sentry shift during the dog watch on the morrow. The lad seemed
distressed and unfit for duty at the time."
"The letter," Thomas asked turning his head and still pacing the deck. "What did it say?"
"Private Collins informed me that the letter spoke of his wife," Bourne said. "It spoke of her passing."
"Ah nab it," Thomas swore quietly and folded his hands behind his back. "Dreadful news...any children then?"
"I don't know sir," Bourne replied, remaining as stoic as ever. "He was mourning her passing."
"Then why in King's name did he leave?" Thomas asked. "I've never lost a man to desertion Colour Sergeant. I can't make
sense of it, Collins, a deserter, whatever the grief or state of mind."
"I can't say sir," Bourne replied honestly. "The other lads said he was taking it mighty hard, said he'd spoken of her often prior to
this news. The lad seemed in no condition to discuss it with me, so I didn't push the issue and ordered him to his hammock. I
planned to speak to him again once he was better suited."
A lengthy silence of several seconds hung in the air before the Lieutenant spoke again.
"This is an awful breach of security Colour Sergeant," Thomas replied. "You know it as well as I. A Marine, deserting his
detachment and his ship. At such a time as our...cargo...come aboard. The entire bloody crew knows what we're carrying, as do
those who ran off, Collins among them."
Thomas stopped pacing and shook his head, "My god man, half of Portsmouth could know by now."
"Adequate sentry has been posted to the cargo sir," Bourne replied. "Half a section, with muskets and bayonets fixed, and a
pistol with powder only to alert the ship's company to trouble. We've seen to the cargo's isolation so that no man has no
business being there but the Marines. The Section Leaders are working on a plan to secure the gold by the entire Detachment
should the crew make an attempt on the boxes."
Thomas already knew that but it didn't make him feel any better. Did Collins flee his ship due to some insidious plot regarding the
cargo, or due to his ill-fated wife? What about the other men? To what motive could he attribute their actions, should he?
At the most prepared of times, having such a precious cargo aboard would make Thomas nervous. With everything else that had
happened, he was downright concerned. Privately, he wished he'd been assigned about twice as many Marines as he had.
Security aboard the Terpsichore had taken on a whole new dimension since their cargo had come aboard. Thomas had not yet
spoken to the Captain about it, but he was sure the senior officer and the other ship's officers were thinking along the same lines.
In the meantime, Thomas was trying to get his own house in order. Collins sudden desertion couldn't have come at a worse time.
The Marines were aboard to prevent such behavior, not participate in it.
The only spot of good news was the likelihood that they would soon set sail. Thomas no longer felt safe in Portsmouth harbor. It
offered him no peace of mind, not as long as there was the risk that news of the cargo had spread to other ships and the people
of Portsmouth. Not as long as the Terpsichore's crew sat bored aboard ship, with thoughts of gold as the only distraction to their
idle thoughts.
No...better they be at sea, with the crew at work. Thomas would rather face a French Ship-of-the-Line at sea than an insurrection
aboard ship or an attempt on the cargo by Portsmouth rope beaters and harbor blacksmiths.
"Alright Colour Sergeant," Thomas said. "I'll declare Collins desertion official and send a dispatch on the next barge ashore, if
there is another one. If we don't find him, perhaps Headquarters will. God him help either way."

"I'm going to see to the Captain about the deserters," Thomas said. "We can confirm Collins is gone, we should know about the
others soon enough. Hopefully there are no more missing than that."
"Very good sir," Bourne replied.
"Dismissed Colour Sergeant," Thomas stated.
Moving a muscle for the very first time, Colour Sergeant Patrick Bourne turned and left the tight space, leaving Thomas to pick
up his hat, which had fallen from his hand onto the deck. As he lifted it, he wiped some grime off the brim and contemplated the
duty that lay ahead.
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#194
03-30-2010, 08:52 AM
Ruben was in the Great Cabin, he was always in the Great Cabin, how was he to command a man of war when all he ever did is
fill out paperwork?
He was finishing the logs, he had to put R by the name of the four men that didn't present themselves for muster. Run, here in
Portsmouth, and the voyage had not even started yet.
The fog had rolled in like they thought it would, the minute gun was firing with it's usual regularity. Ruben smiled, one gun's crew
would know how to load and fire a gun, he wondered if the third Lieutenant would take this opportunity to rotate some guns
crews onto that cannon so that more would learn the mind numbing task.
The tale-tall compass on his deck-head told Ruben the ship was no longer holding her direction, it would be slack water and the
ebb would soon began. He closed the log book and stoppered the ink bottle. It was about time to step onto the deck and see if
they could get the hell out of here.
As he reached the head of the companion ladder and looked fore and aft. He noted he could not even see the foremast from the
Quarterdeck. He looked for the Officer of the deck, always easy to spot since he carries the telescope. "Lieutenant Foxall, hoist
in the anchor and lets try to get underway. Put a good lookout in each mast head and one at the Main Royal truck, maybe he will
be above all this murk."
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Ragsdale
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 418
#195
03-30-2010, 01:35 PM
[Sometime around four bells in the forenoon watch, HMS Terpsichore]
Andrew awoke the pronounced rocking of his cot. At first he was not certain if it was the alcohol he had consumed the previous
night or something else.
"The ship is moving," he said tiredly.
"What was that?"
Andrew sat up with a start. Looking down next to him, he said the half-naked silhouette of Jessica sprawled in the cot with him.
Foxall was surprised he had forgotten she had stayed the night considering how small the cot was for one person. He must have
imbibed more than he thought. At any rate, it was a pleasant sight to wake up to and he was glad to find her in his cabin when he
returned from Aubrey and Priscilla's wedding.
It was a lovely wedding and Andrew dared to hope he would find someone someday, but for now he needed someone to keep
the loneliness away. He could have found someone far worse than Jessica and who knows when he would see another woman
again. Realizing she had asked a question, Andrew answered.

"I said we're moving. We must be moving up to a wharf or something. Either that or your a stowaway and I'm in trouble." He
gave her a grin. "I'm going up top to see what's going on."
Slipping on his overcoat, Andrew leaned down and kissed the girl on her forehead before heading up on deck. When he arrived
he saw that the Terpsichore had indeed docked and the crew was busy loading some sort of cargo aboard her. There was a
chatter among the crew beyond the usual. Finding one of his gun chiefs, he approached.
"What's going on, Mr. Wells?"
"Gold sir! We're taking onboard a load of gold bullion sir."
"Gold? Are you certain?"
"I saw it with me own eyes, sir. I swear to it," answered the petty officer.
"Right, carry on."
"Aye sir."
Andrew headed up to the Quarterdeck and found the second lieutenant there.
"Good morning, Patrick. I hope you had a pleasant evening."
"About as good as could be expected. And you?," asked Lt. O'Malley.
Andrew gave a sheepish grin. "Better than expected, I must say. What's the deal with the cargo? Rumor says it's gold."
"I'm afraid I don't know. I'm not sure even the Captain knows for certain what it's all about, but it does appear to be gold. One of
the crates busted open not to long ago."
"Curious... Well, I'm sure we'll hear about it in due time. I'm going below in preparation of my watch this evening. Can I get
anything for you before I bed down?"
"A mug of coffee would be appreciated. Thank you," replied Patrick.
"Certainly. I'll send William up with a fresh mug directly."
Andrew then left O'Malley on the deck and went below. He found his steward and told him to get a cup of coffee to the second
lieutenant. When he returned to his quarters, he found that Jessica had already left. The word had gone out and the "wives"
were to leave ship. Taking off his coat and draping in on the back of his chair he lay down on his cot and fell asleep with thoughts
of his night with Jessica running through his head.
Lt. Foxall was awoken one bell prior to the beginning of his watch. Opening his eyes, he saw the slightly less pleasant face of his
steward rousing him. After rubbing his face with his hands and grabbing a cup of coffee, Andrew felt ready for duty.
The watch was progressing smoothly. Sentries were on greater alert following the desertion of four crewmembers, but as far as
he could tell, nothing was out of place. Although, with the fog rolling in, it would be difficult to tell. Thick, dreadful stuff, Andrew
could barely see three meters away. Feeling the cold brass of the telescope, he wondered why he carried it. It wouldn't help him
see any further.
Suddenly, the Captain appeared on deck. "Lieutenant Foxall, hoist in the anchor and let's try to get underway. Put a good lookout
in each mast head and one at the Main Royal truck, maybe he will be above all this murk."
"Aye sir. *in a loude voice* Hoist the anchor. Mr. Rawlins see to it that we have sentries in each mast head and one on the Royal
Truck."
The ship suddenly became a flurry of motion. To those not accustomed to it, the scene would look like pure chaos, but to an
experienced seaman, they were going to sea.
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#196

03-30-2010, 07:30 PM
The sails bloomed out, almost invisible to the deck at night in a fog and were sheeted home. There was almost no wind lower
down but the Royals filled and the ship started answering her helm.
The Helmsman spun the wheel and spun it back before feeling the rudder bite and the ship started answering her helm.
With the fog you could not tell how fast the ship was going as it ghosted along, every minute the tide was running stronger the
t'gallants were starting to draw in the faint airs, while still on deck the air was still and the fog as thick as ever.
All the while the minute gun on the fo'c'sle boomed out without a pause, a quarter charge and no ball was a flattish boom.
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#197
03-31-2010, 02:17 PM
Aubrey made an entry in his Bible,recording the date of his marriage to Priscilla Thorton. The entry in his journal will have to wait
as he needed to be on deck. One other thing he did was tuck two bottles of Patrick's favorite whiskey in his cot to where they'd
be safe. It was something Aubrey had purchased when he was onshore with his wife.He also had purchased several other
bottles of their favorite drink for Thomas, Andrew and the Captain. Priscilla had insisted on him getting some goodies as well for
those who were present at the wedding. A smile of satisfaction, then with the signal gun in hand, Aubrey headed up on deck as
the Terpsichore sailed into the fog.
The thickness of the fog muffled the sound of things, its drops of water clinging to the coats of those on the deck.When a light hit
it, the droplets of water shimmered. It reminded Aubrey of the thick pea soup his mother had made, the thought of that making
his mouth water. Though the fog wasn't tasty as that, Aubrey grinned slightly, remembering when as a lad he tried to cut the fog
with a butter knife but to no avail.
As the Terpsichore caught the airs, and moved forward, Aubrey's pulse quickened, they were underway. He walked along the
deck, watching the activity nodding towards Andrew. When he reached Patrick he whispered, "I've got a gift for you in your room.
You will be certain to like it." Aubrey grinned.
Aubrey didn't see Thomas as of yet, but he kept a look out for him.
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Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#198
03-31-2010, 02:36 PM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson carefully put on his shako style hat before stepping out into the open air of the deck.
The ship was underway now, Thomas looked up at the masts. The sails were shackled in fog. In fact the entire ship was, making
it hard to see anything not lit by candle or lamp beyond 100 yards. The fog rolled in even closer than that at times, obscuring
much of anything beyond the rails. A Thomas watched it seemed to do just that, covering even the deck.
Thomas moved to the larboard rail and glanced down at the water's glassy surface as the ship cut lines through it. He wasn't
sure how many knots the ship was making, but they were slow going so far.
Thomas turned and saluted the Quarterdeck just before he began to step up onto it. There he found a small collection of ship's
officers and men and an even more enjoyable view of the deck as the men worked to ready the ship for the open ocean.
Among those present was one Lieutenant Aubrey Rutherford.
Reaching up to his hat, Thomas tipped it slightly.
"Good day Lieutenant Rutherford," Thomas said as he stepped closer to the Lieutenant.

"Quite a mist," Thomas said. "I don't see how you sailor men navigate in this fog."
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#199
03-31-2010, 03:43 PM
On board the Albacore, English Channel
It was a scene of utter chaos. The French Privateers were closing rapidly and the Albacore, a much smaller vessel, was clearly
at a severe disadvantage. Marie clutched her head in her hands and winced as the cannons began to fire, huddling down in the
wardroom as her father had instructed her to do before he'd gone off in search of her governess.
She heard the roar of the privateer cannons to the south and a moment later the Albacore rocked sideways, creaking ominously.
She could smell smoke and heard the wails of injured men.
Marie's mind raced. It was clear that it would only be a matter of time until the Albacore was fatally wounded, or boarded and
seized. She held no illusions of what would happen to her if that occurred, and her decision was swift: If it came to it, she would
not allow herself to be taken alive. She began to rifle through her governess' things, eventually finding the cloth roll sewing kit
she always took with her containing scissors, small knives and needles and thread. Examining the scissors, she decided that
they had a sharp enough tip to work. She shuddered, wondering how much time she'd have to work up her courage to perform
the act.
As she contemplated these awful things, her father burst into the room once more, holding a large bundle of clothes and
blankets. His shirt was bloodstained and sweat poured down his face.
He spoke French, as he nearly always did with her, "Quickly, Marie. Listen carefully... you must do as I say."
She nodded, rolling up the sewing kit, "But where is--"
Her father shook his head and cut her off, "I don't know where she is. I could not find her. But there is no time! Quickly, you must
take off your dress and put on these clothes. They will keep you warm and if you are unfortunate enough to be spotted, hopefully
you'll not draw as much attention."
Marie obeyed, quickly removing her dress and slipping in to the trousers and coat. As fast as she could, she slipped on the boots
and stood. The clothes were a bit large for her -- particularly the boots -- but not to an unreasonable degree. She looked down at
herself, shaking her head, "But father, they will discover me! They will not believe I am a boy!"
Her father shook his head, "No, the Captain and I have another plan for you. The clothes are simply an added measure of safety.
Now come! There is no time!" Marie clutched the sewing kit to her breast and grabbed one other small cloth bundle, and
followed her father out onto the deck.
Smoke filled Marie's lungs, causing her to cough as she squinted and made her way across the listing deck, following her father.
The pair made their way along the deck until they were about amidships. Abruptly, Marie's father stopped and turned to face her.
Embracing her, he kissed her forehead, then pointed down into the water off the starboard side of the ship. There, a small jolly
boat bobbed up and down, waiting for her.
Her heart was pumping wildly, adrenaline surging through her veins. She didn't pause even a moment before she swung a leg
over the gunwale and began to climb down to the boat. As she neared the boat, she heard the concussion of the privateer
cannons and the Albacore rocked violently. Marie's foot slipped through the netting right above the jolly boat and she fell into the
tiny vessel.
She called up, "I'm in father! Come quickly!"
There was no reply.
Marie heard the sharp cracks of small arms. The privateers must be very close, she thought. "Father!" she shouted as loud as
she could, tears filling her eyes. "Father, please!"
As she looked up to the deck, the line connecting the jolly boat to the Albacore was dropped down. Either someone cut it, or the
thing it was attached to had broken. She was out of time.

Sobbing, Marie wiped her eyes with her sleeve and took to the oars. She could scarcely see for the fog and the tears as she
pulled away from the ship, until all she could see was the ghostly light of the fires glowing in the mist.
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Linette Geraud
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#200
03-31-2010, 03:49 PM
"Good day Lieutenant Rutherford," Thomas said as he stepped closer to the Lieutenant.
"Quite a mist," Thomas said. "I don't see how you sailor men navigate in this fog."
"Good day Lieutenant Carson. Its by the grace of God, and the skill of the crew." Aubrey said "Plus a bit of alertness" Aubrey
added.
"Another thanks to you attending my wedding." Aubrey added. "I got something for you as well as Andrew, when I was onshore.
Just a token of my appreciation. " he smiled. Then a more serious expression crossed his face.
"Were you apprised of those who ended up departing?" Aubrey asked.
"Do you hear gunfire?" Captain Williams voice cut across the Quarterdeck.
The quirky fog was playing tricks on him. "Avast with the gun!" he called foreword.
The seamen stopped firing but all that was heard was the drip drip drip of condensates fog from the rigging and sails.
Minutes passed...
"Mister Foxall, arm the lead and cast well foreword if you please. I want to know what bottom we have." Ruben finally broke the
shocked silence. "Resume the minute gun," he called out.
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#202
03-31-2010, 08:29 PM
"Another thanks to you attending my wedding." Aubrey added. "I got something for you as well as Andrew, when I was onshore.
Just a token of my appreciation. " he smiled. Then a more serious expression crossed his face.
Thomas replied, "Why that is very generous of you sir, thank you, and my blessings again to you and the misses. Almost regret
that we had to put to sea so quickly, on your behalf, you see."
"Were you apprised of those who ended up departing?" Aubrey asked.
"I was," Thomas replied, a slight sting evident in his voice. "Lost one of my marines, a first for me I'm afraid. Given our cargo, I
feel undermanned as it is. The bigger concern in my mind was those men possibly knowing our cargo and carrying that
information ashore. It makes me glad we cast off when we did rather than linger among greedy eyes and hands in Portsmouth."
Suddenly the Captain shouted. Silence fell over the Quarterdeck as the officers listened and peered out into the fog. Several
long seconds passed in a strange deathly quiet made all the stranger by the mist and fog that hung all around and over their
decks.
"No sir," Thomas confessed in a low voice turning his head. "I didn't hear anything."
This close to shore, it could be anything. An echo, another vessel signaling. Thomas thought it highly unlikely to be a hostile
ship, this close to Portsmouth with no war warning from London.
Then again...their cargo. Greedy hands...

Thomas frowned at that thought as several long minutes of silence came over the assembled officers and men. He resumed
listening and watching to see what, if anything, was amiss. He remained nearly within arm's reach of Aubrey as they both
reacted to the situation.
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Ragsdale
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#203
04-01-2010, 01:44 PM
There was something about setting sail on your voyage that defied all normal logic. Under regular circumstances, the officers not
on duty would likely be asleep at this hour. Instead, the excitement of the moment seemed to bring everyone on deck. The
Captain, Aubrey, and Lt. O'Malley were there as was Lt. Carson. However, Andrew was the Officer of the Watch and so had
command over the ship's operation until one of his superior's choose to take over. As Foxall was watching over the crew as they
went about the business of putting the Terpsichore in motion, Captain Rutherford beckoned for everyone to be quiet.
Andrew strained through the silence to hear what had picqued the Captain's interest. After what seemed like a much longer
period of time than it actually was, Captain Williams dismissed the phantom sound.
"Mister Foxall, arm the lead and cast well foreword if you please. I want to know what bottom we have." Ruben finally broke the
shocked silence. "Resume the minute gun," he called out.
"Aye sir," replied Andrew. After giving the instructions to Petty Officer Wells at the minute gun, he headed towards the bow to
lower the line. Foxall watched as the weighted line slipped through the sailors hand. Knots were placed in the line to mark each
new length of measurement.
"I think we've hit bottom sir," said the sailor.
"What do we have, Daniels?"
"We're just past sixteen fathoms sir."
"Very good," said Foxall. "Pull it back up; I want to see what the bottom's like."
The sailor quickly reeled in the line finding a gray sludge on the lead weight. Andrew headed back to the stern to report his
findings.
"Sir, just passed sixteen fathoms with a gray sludge bottom," said Foxall to the Captain.
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Lupe
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#204
04-01-2010, 04:18 PM
Ruben nodded, "very good, keep the lead going if you please."
He was no channel pilot but he knew some of the bottom around Portsmouth and they were clear of the land. "Have it armed on
every tenth cast and when we get to sand and broken shale at about twenty fathoms let me know."
Last edited by Lupe; 04-01-2010, 07:17 PM. Reason: shell was suppose to be shale
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Linette Geraud
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#205

04-01-2010, 07:57 PM
Aubrey was silent, listening to the quiet of the fog and the muffled tones of the men working. He listened as Lieutenant Foxall
called out his findings.
He wondered about the Captain's question if anyone heard the sound of cannons from afar. Aubrey could feel the tendrils of the
fog caress his cheeks, as the ship continued to move forward. Aubrey could have stepped in and taken over Andrew's duty but
he felt it was good experience for Andrew.
Aubrey started to tune out all the noises that were close at hand but instead, listened for what could be classified as a
dischordant sound of a possible ship or the sound the captain had heard. Sometimes ships could pass next to each other in a
dense fog, or for that matter could just come suddenly right up in front and cause a collision. At this thought, Aubrey moved
towards the front of the ship, peering out into the fog to keep a sharp eye out.
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Lupe
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#206
04-01-2010, 09:36 PM
The man with the lead was standing in the foremast chains, whirling the lead and throwing foreword as it came level with him he
read the depth, "by the deep sixteen" and "by the mark, seventeen"
On his tenth throw he pulled it up, "by the mark eighteen, sand and broken shale"
He whirled the lead and threw it foreward again.
The lead landed not with a splash but a thud on wood.
As Marie Fournier sat at the oars, something heavy whistled over her head to land in the front of her little boat, a wet rope land
across her shoulder. Looming out of the fog was the bow and side of a large ship, it was right on top of her little boat.
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Firefly
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#207
04-02-2010, 11:02 AM
Marie pulled on the oars through her tears until she was completely exhausted and the orange glow of the fires had been
swallowed by the fog.
A throbbing pain in her leg became more insistent now that her adrenaline was subsiding. She looked down, tugging up on her
right trouser leg and she could see a fairly short, but deep gash running down the inside of her calf. It had bled a fair amount,
soaking her trousers and boot. Wincing, she pressed the flesh together, causing more blood to ooze out.
I must've cut myself when I fell, she thought.
She tore a long strip of blanket and wrapped her leg tightly, hoping that it would stave off more bleeding, but it quickly became
apparent that the cut was too deep. Working quickly so as not to lose courage, she pulled out the sewing kit, and after several
attempts, managed to thread a needle.
Holding the needle at her skin, she clamped her jaw as tight as possible and plunged it through the wound. In spite of her best
efforts, she cried aloud, eyes welling with tears. She bit down on a bit of blanket and continued for three more stitches, muffling
her cries with the cloth.
Dizzy with pain, she managed to tie the thread, closing the wound, and fell back in the jolly boat. Her eyes closed and she
passed out.
THUNK.
Marie's eyes opened at the sound of something heavy striking the jolly boat.

How long had she been out? There was no way to tell -- hours? A day? The fog still rested like a blanket over the sea and she
struggled to sit up in the boat. A large shape of a ship loomed over her and her eyes widened with fear. Was it the privateers?
Had her escape from the Albacore come to this?
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Linette Geraud
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#208
04-02-2010, 12:51 PM
Thunk.. that didn't sound right and Aubrey was leaning over the rail to get a better look. As he did so, the fog thinned out
revealing a jollyboat with someone inside it. Knowing the dangers of being lost in the fog, Aubrey quickly called out, "Jollyboat on
the portside quickly get a grapple-line and hook it, there is someone inside it, could possibly be someone lost in this devlish fog."
Aubrey also thought to himself, there could be a man in there that could help replace atleast one of those that had run away.
This could be rather fortuitous for the Terpsichore.
"JOllyboat hooked, Sir," as the hook landed inside the jollyboat hooking onto one of the seats, and the boat was pulled close to
the Terpsichore. The lead line pulled back to the Terpsichore to be cast out once again.
"Captain, permission to bring the occupant of the Jollyboat onboard the ship?" Aubrey called out to Ruben.
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Lupe
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#209
04-02-2010, 01:04 PM
"Bring him aboard, read him in if you can. Another hand would be a good thing." Ruben smiled, "and hoist in that boat, no reason
for us to abandon it."
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Firefly
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#210
04-02-2010, 03:55 PM
Marie's heart pounded in her chest as the jolly boat was hooked and drawn in. Her mouth was bone dry and she felt the hot
edges of panic rising up her neck. She could hear muffled voices shouting things above deck, but couldn't hear anything
distinctly and had no idea who these people were.
Hands shaking violently, she unrolled the sewing kit and took out the sharpest thing she could find -- the pair of scissors.
Grasping the handle in her right hand, she slipped the tip up into her sleeve, concealing it. She wasn't the least bit sure what she
planned to do with the implement, but she felt a tiny bit safer with it in hand. If it was the privateers who were pulling her in, she'd
only have a few moments to use it or to fend off the men long enough to jump into the icy sea, and perhaps a sharp bit of steel
would help buy her a few precious seconds.
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Linette Geraud
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#211
04-02-2010, 10:19 PM
"Aye Captain!" Aubrey called back to Ruben, then ordered several sailors to go down and hook up the jollyboat and bring it up.

The first sailor who climbed down to the boat stopped dead in his tracks, seeing not a man but a woman. In a distinct english
accent he said, "Wot are you doin' out 'ere in the fog, miss?" he asked increduously.
"What's the trouble down there!" Aubrey yelled down to the sailors who were supposed to be getting the jollyboat hooked up and
ready to bring on board the Terpsichore.
Word was passed to Aubrey about the passenger on the jolly boat. Aubrey was shocked, "Are you certain?" he asked. The sailor
nodded."By all means, bring said person up immediately"
The sailor passed the word down and the man nearest the boat held out his hand, "Come along miss, lets get you out of this
boat and onto the HMS Terpsichore."
Looking to Lieutenant Foxall, Aubrey motioned to him, "Lieutenant Foxall, I need you to confirm what has just been told to me."
nodding towards the person onboard the jollyboat.
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Firefly
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#212
04-02-2010, 11:01 PM
Marie was nearly delirious with relief when she heard the sailor's English. It wasn't the privateers after all! Miraculously, she must
have drifted into the path of this ship.
"Um, uh..." she stammered, "Well, I... My ship was attacked," she finally managed.
Trembling and shaky on her feet with her wounded leg, she slipped the scissors in a pocket, accepted the man's outstretched
hand and began to climb up to the deck of the Terpsichore.
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Jon Allen
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#213
04-03-2010, 12:12 PM
As Aubrey asked for permission to bring the boat in, Thomas had moved over to the larboard rail of the Quarterdeck.
"Ahoy!" he shouted to the small boat as it appeared out of the fog and mist.
As the officers and sailors began to react, Thomas moved forward, against the forward rail of the Quarterdeck.
Scanning the deck, he spotted a red uniform and a familiar face, "Corporal King!"
Once he had the Corporal's attention, he shouted, "Take another marine from your section and go forward, inspect the boat and
anyone they bring aboard for arms, contraband or papers."
"Ay sir!" the Corporal shouted, then hefted up his musket and began to shout at another private as he moved towards the bow.
Thomas quickly lost sight of the Corporal as a gaggle of sailors moved forward to assist in recovering the boat.
Stepping across the Quarterdeck to the Captain, Thomas said, "Captain Williams."
Once he had the senior officer's attention, Thomas came to attention and said, "Sir, there may be other boats in the water we
cannot see. May I suggest we use lamps or shouts and calls?"
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Lupe
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#214
04-03-2010, 03:52 PM
Ruben smiled, "you have a good idea there." He turned to Andrew, "Mister Foxall, have toplights hoisted to each mast and lit."
He turned back to Thomas, "and we have the minute gun still firing, if anyone is out there they will hear and see us."
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Firefly
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#215
04-04-2010, 10:34 PM
Marie struggled up the ropes to the deck of the, her right leg burning and aching with each step. She was still quite nervous.
Though these men seemed not to be privateers, she didn't know what lay in store and the weight of the scissors in her pocket
gave her small comfort as she found her way onto the deck.
Remember your accent, Marie!, she thought. She knew that when she was nervous or tired, her accent tended to slip, and could
easily become recognizably French when she wasn't completely on top of it. She didn't know who these sailors were, but she
knew that they'd probably treat her more kindly if they thought she was a nice English girl. So that was what she'd try to be.
Her feet landed on the deck of the Terpsichore with a soft 'thud'.
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Jon Allen
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#216
04-04-2010, 11:07 PM
The young woman found herself staring at a couple sailors in various attire who were working to bring her over the rail onto the
deck, and a red coated man, perhaps in his young 20's who looked like a british army soldier. He was holding a rather large and
intimidating musket but it was pointed up away from her. As she watched, he handed the musket to another red-coated soldier
and stepped forward.
As the sailors helped the survivor over the deck, the red-coated soldier said to Marie, "Welcome aboard His Majesty's Frigate
Terpsichore, I am Corporal King, what is your name? What were doing out here in that boat?"
Last edited by Jon Allen; 04-05-2010, 08:48 AM.
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Firefly
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#217
04-05-2010, 11:47 AM
Her balance shaky as she stood on the deck, bearing most of her weight on her left leg, Marie looked at Corporal King in
something akin to stunned silence.
Everything had happened so quickly -- the attack, the escape, the rescue -- she hadn't had time to think it through and to come
to terms with the consequences. As she recalled the orange-glow of fire through the fog she blinked hard to hold back tears and
tightened her jaw, trying to remain some degree of composure.
"Sorry," she finally stammered, the fact that he'd asked her a question finally sinking in, "M-my name is M-Marie," she said, her
voice shaky.
Hugging herself, she continued, "I was on the Albacore and we were attacked. Privateers, I think it was."
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#218
04-05-2010, 02:46 PM
The Corporal nodded and said, "Lets get you warm miss, follow me please."
The Marine shouted to the nearby sailors, "Get a blanket! A blanket lads!"
Marie was escorted away from the bow towards the main mast of the ship. More sailors stood around the foggy deck, trying to
catch a glimpse of the new arrival. Word that it was a woman was already quickly spreading from the main deck up the masts to
the topmen and throughout the bowels of the ship.
A blanket appeared and was handed to Marie, allowing her to wrap herself. The air was still cold and moist, which was made all
the worse by wet clothes.
As Marie was led aft, she become more visible to those on the Quarterdeck as the gaggle of sailors and a pair of Marines
emerged from the wet fog. Marie could see those on the Quarterdeck as well, a group of stately-looking naval officers standing
up there gazing her way with curious stares trying to peer through the dense fog.
As they got closer, another red uniformed man, this one on the Quarterdeck yelled, "Well Corporal, who is it?"
Corporal King yelled back, "One survivor in the boat, it's a woman sir. From a ship called the Albacore."
This made the red uniformed man on the Quarterdeck, Lieutenant Thomas Carson, glance over at the Captain. His gaze left no
doubt that he was looking for orders.
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Firefly
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#219
04-05-2010, 03:33 PM
Marie followed and eagerly accepted the blanket, wrapping it and clutching it tight against the air, which seemed bitterly cold
given her damp clothes. Following with a slight limp behind Corporal King, she could feel the uncomfortable weight of many eyes
on her. Although she had spent several days on the Albacore and had frequent interactions with the sailors, it was striking how
different the situation seemed now that she was no longer under the blanket of protection that her father provided her.
Feeling alone and vulnerable, and desperately not wanting to appear that way, she closed her mouth tightly and kept her eyes
straight ahead as she and Corporal King approached the Quarterdeck.
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Lupe
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#220
04-05-2010, 04:18 PM
"Bring her here." Williams said flatly, the boom of the minute gun punctuated his words.
As she came on the Quarter deck he looked at her, "Your name girl?"
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Firefly
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#221
04-05-2010, 04:56 PM

Marie made her way a bit unsteadily onto the Quarterdeck and suddenly felt very small as she stood before the Captain.
Suddenly all of the thoughts she had had about this trip being a great adventure seemed childish, like the idle fantasies of a fool.
She desperately wanted to run from here, to wake up warm in her bed at home with her father's laughter filling the house.
Very briefly, she considered saying that her name was "Mary", but thought better of it since she thought she'd already told her
name to Corporal King. Getting caught in a lie would be very poor form indeed.
She looked up at him and summoned her courage. Her instincts were screaming that she must not appear weak or frail, and so
she met his eyes and spoke clearly.
"Marie," she said, "My name is Marie."
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Lupe
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#222
04-05-2010, 06:42 PM
He looked her over from head to foot. "Marie, your bleeding. Mister Carson take her to Sickbay. Doctor Richardson maybe a
drunk but he is the best thing we have."
"We will touch at Plymouth to set you down when the fog lifts." He informed his new new passenger.
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Firefly
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#223
04-05-2010, 08:00 PM
Marie dipped her head graciously, "Thank you Captain. I think I have managed to stop the bleeding, but if your doctor would
have a look, I would be most grateful."
She considered asking if there were any way they could search for the Albacore and possibly lend assistance, but she already
knew the answer, and didn't want to risk seeming overly naive to her rescuers. So when the captain told her that she'd be left at
Plymouth, she nodded and managed a tired but genuine smile, "Thank you so much Captain."
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Lupe
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#224
04-05-2010, 08:40 PM
"Of course Ma'am." Ruben nodded and said gruffly.
He had been at sea since he was nine, he had seen privateers and even pirates at work, the man she was traveling with had
cast her adrift rather then leave her to the tender mercies of those cut-throats. Letting her drift down the channel and meeting
who knows what might be a better fate. Ruben would have probably put her beyond the reach of them forever... but then the
Navy breeds a hard life with no illusions.
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#225
04-05-2010, 10:19 PM
"Ay sir," Thomas replied.

He tipped his hat to Marie. The red-coated Marine Officer offered a friendly but formal smile.
"Lieutenant Thomas Carson miss, I lead the ship's Marines," Thomas said.
"I'll take you to the Doctor," Thomas said. "Please come with me, lets get you out of the cold air."
Thomas led Marie off the Quarterdeck. They stepped down below decks. The air was still damp and it was darker, but there was
no cold wind in Marie's face.
"Make way," Thomas declared to a sailor trying to come top-side. The man stepped aside and touched his hand to his brow in an
informal salute as the pair passed.
Thomas added to Marie as they continued below, "I'll see if we can get a young lad or Steward assigned to see to your needs
madam. In the meantime, if you need anything, please ask one of the officers."
Below-decks, they found the small cramped sickbay. It was quiet and relatively clean, as the new vessel had not seen blood and
wounded in a battle as of yet.
"Doctor Richardson," Thomas declared. "Your services are needed sir."
Once he had the Doctor's attention, he said, "This is Marie, we picked her up off a small boat. She appears to be injured. Please
see to her care and then report to the Captain."
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Firefly
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#226
04-05-2010, 11:11 PM
Marie managed a quick smile at the Lieutenant and dipped her head respectfully, "A pleasure to meet you Lieutenant."
She followed the Marine below decks and into the sickbay. It was a huge relief to get out of the cold wind and into the
comparative warmth inside. She hoped that perhaps there might be some way to get her clothes dry -- her skin was clammy and
damp as the ill-fitting man's clothes clung to her beneath the blanket. She also fervently hoped that the doctor would not find it
necessary to change the sutures she had self-applied... the mere thought of reliving that pain made her shudder.
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Lupe
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#227
04-06-2010, 06:56 AM
Richard 'Dick' Richardson looked at the new case that came into his sickbay. That seaman was in a very bad way indeed, he
looked like a woman. There would not be much Dick could do about that but oh, the poor man was wet through and through and
had blood on his leg, that must be what they brought him in for. But why did their jolly do so? Dick had been to sea for five years
now, ever since his practice failed.
"Sit on that their lockers and put that leg up, pull up the pant leg there." He instructed Marie without moving from the chair he
seemed to be poured into.
The years of naval life, the continues drink had made him overweight and coarse looking. It had tanned and reddened his face
and unfocused his eyes. Six years ago he was a good looking man, had a practice in a fashionable area of London, was even
considered hansom.
His baby blue eyes had then twinkled, now they had an oyster sheen to them. His hair had been thick, healthy, blond, now it was
thinning, coarse, and lank.
But he did know how to fix people, that had not been his undoing, his lack of sympathy had been. When he had told the wife of a
peer that she was full of hot air and nothing was really wrong with her, his practice had taken a downward turn. It might have
worked out if within six months the daughter of a Duke had not overdosed on quack medicine and died after he had sent her
away for not being really sick. They of course put the blame on him.

So here he was, nine parts drunk, Cirrhosis of the liver, possibly a stomach cancer, half malnutrition since he didn't eat right
being drunk most of the time, no future, asked to look at this wet cat of a boy who thought it would be wonderfully romantic to go
to sea, or more likely was minding his own business when the press gang picked him up and made him a seaman.
Dick finally stood up to walk slowly over to a locker and pull out some dry clothes, they were not in much better shape then the
seaman had on but at least they were clean and dry, and a bottle (his had again gone empty) and bandages.
He set the clothes on the locker and looked at the stitches, nodding to himself. "I do a nice job of it even if I say so myself." He
pulled the cork out of the bottle and poured it on the stitches. Then he turned and pushed it at her, "drink."
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#228
04-06-2010, 12:23 PM
Marie sat as instructed and tugged up the leg of her trousers to reveal the cut. It was swollen and caked with blood, but her
makeshift stitches seemed to have done their job.
She decided it would be unwise to correct the surgeon as he looked at her leg and commented on her handiwork as though it
were his own. It was obvious that he was very drunk and the last thing she wanted was for him to do any work on her in his
current state. She counted his confusion a blessing.
She tugged the offered clothes closer to her as the surgeon uncorked his fresh bottle. She assumed he was going to drink from
it, and gasped in surprise as she felt the alcohol burn as it soaked the wound. "Aaah," she gasped before silencing herself by
digging her teeth into her lower lip.
"Drink," he commanded as he thrust the bottle before her.
Hesitantly, she took the bottle and sniffed it, the fumes from what she assumed was rum filling her nostrils. Her eyes widened,
but he looked at her insistently and she lifted the bottle to her lips and took a small swig.
Marie was accustomed to wine, which due to her father's moderate wealth, the family was able to have quite frequently. But
she'd not had spirits before, and the harsh liquor hit the back of her throat with an unexpected force. She swallowed it as quickly
as she could, then immediately coughed a few times, her eyes watering profusely. Wrinkling her nose and blinking hard, she
handed the bottle back to Richardson, hoping this would be the end of her 'treatment'.
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Lupe
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#229
04-06-2010, 12:58 PM
Dick took a healthy slug himself before thumping the cork back into the bottle and setting it down. He picked up the bandages,
the first one to clean the now wet wound up a little commenting to himself, "a good clean cut stitched closed and bound in it's
own blood heals on the first intent as long as you are of good health." The next bandage was wrapped expertly around her leg
and the wound. "No going aloft for a while, it's light duty deck work for you." The third piece of bandages was going over the
second to keep it clean when he said, "I told them that you young boys didn't need to be going up to the Royals but do they
listen, for that matter do you boys listen? Not a one of you."
He stepped back and admired his handy work, nodding to himself. "Deck work for you boy, and I mean it. I will put you in a
hammock and tie you in if I find out you have been back in the rigging."
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Firefly
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#230
04-06-2010, 01:23 PM
"I'm not, um..., uh..." Marie began, not sure what to say. She didn't really want to deceive the man, but the situation felt intensely
awkward, and she felt the strong urge to get out of sickbay as quickly as she could. Also, she reasoned that it wouldn't be long
and she'd be dropped off in Plymouth -- so what would be the gain in correcting and possibly embarrassing him? She decided to
let it slide and simply agree with his admonition. Besides, she figured the man would probably not remember anything of their
conversation in a few hours, anyway.
Nodding, she said, "I will definitely stay out of the rigging, sir."
Furrowing her brow she held the dry clothes up, "So, uh... where should I... uh. Never mind. I suppose I should go, then?"
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Jon Allen
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#231
04-06-2010, 02:26 PM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson stepped back onto the Quarterdeck, still adjusting his hat as he did so.
Swiveling on his feet, he addressed the officers present as he stepped closer to them across the wet planks, "Gentlemen, she's
with the doctor."
He added to the group, "Once she's finished, perhaps we should hear her full story. Corporal King said she seemed to say that
the ship she was on was attacked. I'd like to hear more of this tale, it may have some bearing on our voyage."
The Marine folded his arms behind his back, fingers interlaced as he added, "At any rate, for now, perhaps we should assign a
boy or Steward to see to her needs?"
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Lupe
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#232
04-06-2010, 04:32 PM
"Yes..." Ruben said, "where is my Steward? Asleep I make no doubt. Mister Rutherford, would you tell my Steward to take care
of the ladies needs?"
"Mister Foxall, has there been any other boats reported from the look outs?" Ruben turned to the officer of the watch as two bells
struck.
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Linette Geraud
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#233
04-06-2010, 11:22 PM
Aubrey finally snapped out of his stupor, or his shock of the fact of a lady having been cast adrift in a jollyboat. He was curious
as to how it came about but opted to keep his questions to himself. Aubrey nodded to the Captain and gave him an "Aye
Captain, right away." Aubrey then proceeded to go about what he had been asked to do.
Going below deck he found where the new steward, Burke was at and shook him firmly to wake the boy up. "We have another
lady onboard and it is the Captain's wish that you see to the lady's needs. Her name is Marie, and she was found floating in a
jolly boat in the fog." Aubrey conveyed the message.
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Firefly
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Posts: 219
#234
04-07-2010, 03:50 PM
Doctor Richardson grunted and gestured to the door, and Marie didn't wait around for another invitation to leave.
"Thank you, sir," she said, gathering up the dry clothes he'd given her and backing out of the small dark sickbay, closing the door
behind her and leaving the good doctor to his rum.
She glanced around. Shivering, she decided that the first order of business was to get warm and dry. Peering around briefly, she
didn't see or hear anyone else nearby and decided she didn't want to wait any longer. She made her plan to quickly change into
the dry clothes here outside sickbay, then make her way to the Quarter deck to speak with the officers to see what was
happening.
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Dorella Allerod
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#235
04-07-2010, 07:40 PM
Originally posted by Linette Geraud View Post
Going below deck he found where the new steward, Burke was at and shook him firmly to wake the boy up. "We have another
lady onboard and it is the Captain's wish that you see to the lady's needs. Her name is Marie, and she was found floating in a
jolly boat in the fog." Aubrey conveyed the message.
"HuH?" Burke was startled awake. "What? a lady?" Burke moaned. He ached all over and was still trying to get used to the
sailor's life. "Marie? He stammered...ok, I am up," he said as he fell out of his hammock. "Aye sir, I will go find her."
Burke has no clue what to do when he finds Marie, but he decided he would wing it once again. He was getting rather good at
that, at least in his mind.
Burke made his way up the stairs of the companion ladder and onto the quarter deck. He saw the Captain, other officer's as well
as the young woman. He figured that must be Marie since he saw no other female.
Burke went up to the Captain, "sir, what should I do with the woman?" He asked with big eyes.
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Lupe
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#236
04-08-2010, 08:48 AM
Ruben saw Marie and Burke come on the Quarterdeck almost at the same time. "fortuitous," he said under his breath.
Burke went up to the Captain, "sir, what should I do with the woman?" He asked with big eyes.
"Take her into the Great Cabin and make her some tea, give her a little cake if we have any left." Ruben told his Steward, the
boy was bright as a top lantern but not yet quite a true seaman. He was coming along well, and Ruben was glad he had taken
the youth aboard.
"Marie, go with young Burke here, he will get you something hot to drink to dispel the chill from your bones." Ruben instructed
the young woman.
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Firefly
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#237
04-08-2010, 05:28 PM
Marie wound her way up the ship to the Quarterdeck. The warmth of the rum in her stomach coupled with the dry clothes had
her feeling much better and stronger. Her thigh still ached, but the pain was manageable and she was able to walk with only a
minor limp.
It felt odd, but not altogether unpleasant, to be wearing a man's clothes. Marie had never cared much for corsets, but now felt a
bit too exposed in only the thin fabric of the shirt. So she held the slightly damp blanket around her shoulders for the sake of
modesty as much as warmth. The trousers were also an interesting experience, but one she kind of enjoyed -- they felt very
practical. And Marie had always been a rather practical girl.
As she made her way onto the deck, she began to screw up her courage. As foolish as she knew it may sound, she decided it
was essential to press the captain to search for the Albacore and try to come to its aid when the fog lifted. To her inexpert eye,
the Terpsichore looked to be more than a match for the privateer vessel that had attacked them.
However, as she arrived and opened her mouth to speak, the Captain spoke first, telling her to follow the young boy for some
tea. Her resolve faltered. There was something about the Captain that froze her tongue. Glancing around, she saw that the fog
was still very thick indeed and she rationalized her sudden lack of courage by deciding that there would be time later to speak to
the Captain about this. And tea sounded very nice indeed. She suddenly realized how hungry she was.
So she uttered a simple, "Yes sir. Thank you, sir," and followed the boy Burke.
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Dorella Allerod
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#238
04-08-2010, 09:17 PM
Burke led Marie to the great cabin and he made some tea and gave her the last peice of seed cake. He also folded one of the
Captain's fine satin napkins into a swan to impress her.
Burke handed the swan napkin to her with a smile. "Is the tea to your liking?"
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Firefly
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#239
04-08-2010, 09:28 PM
Marie nodded and smiled kindly at the wide-eyed boy. Cradling the cup in her hands as she sipped, it warmed her inside and
out. The cake was small, but welcome, and she ate it a bit more quickly than her old governess would have approved of. Well,
she thought, No one's going to care if I'm 'unladylike' here.
Her eyebrows rose and she laughed with appreciation as the boy handed her the swan.
"How lovely!" she exclaimed, "Where ever did you learn such talents?"
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Dorella Allerod
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#240
04-08-2010, 10:01 PM
Burke gave a smile, "my fathers gardener, he knew such things and showed me how as well." He then cryed to himself with
sadness as he hid many secrets. He hoped he hid his sadness as he gave her another smile.

Marie tilted her head at the boy's forced smile. She didn't want to prod, but her curiosity got the better of her. She wondered if
he'd been forced into service or if he'd been an orphan or...
An orphan.
Although she was essentially a fully-grown woman, Marie felt a tight knot form in her stomach as she realized that she may now,
too, be an orphan. Her mother had died years before, and now her father... well... it didn't bear thinking about.
"What's your name? And your story? How'd you come to serve on this ship?" she asked the boy, with a friendly smile.
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Dorella Allerod
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#242
04-08-2010, 10:23 PM
"Burke, I like to be called," he said with a weak smile. "My story...he paused a bit, I am an orphan.".But that was his story and he
was sticking to it. "I ran away from it cause they were going to kick me out anyway cause I am 15. So getting on this ship is a
good thing and I will learn much and it will make me happy..I am pretty sure of such."
"So is your tea and cake to your liking? Do you feel better? What is your story?" He rambled questions.
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Firefly
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#243
04-08-2010, 11:22 PM
Marie smiled, "Well Burke," she said, extending a hand, "It is a great pleasure to make your acquaintance. The cake and tea are
excellent, and most welcome, indeed. I am feeling much better after my ordeal."
She sensed that he didn't want to talk too much about his past -- which was understandable -- the life of an orphan was typically
a hard one. So instead, she told the boy of her travel on the Albacore, her journey to Scotland, and eventual escape on board
the jolly boat. She glossed over many details, not wanting to bore or frighten him.
"I am told we're to touch at Plymouth, so my time on here will be short, I suppose," she remarked finally. It will be good to stand
on dry land again, but I do hope that somehow the Albacore ... and my father ... have survived and found their way to England as
well."
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Dorella Allerod
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#244
04-08-2010, 11:42 PM
Burke shook her hand and gave a smile. "I am glad you like the tea and I do hope your father is safe." Burke lowered his eyes to
the floor as he spoke of her father because he was afraid of if her father was ok or not, he didn't know. But she was a female and
he wanted to make her feel better. He wasn't sure why he needed to do that, but that was his instinct.
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Lupe
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#245
04-09-2010, 11:06 AM

Ding-ding, ding-ding. The bell tolled out two in the morning, the fog was as thick as ever on the deck of His Majesties Ship
Terpsichore. Way up at the Main Royal Truck sat the lookout above the fog, he could see his own Royal yard arm but not all the
sail, and across what looked like a calm sea of clouds he could see something else, the starlight didn't make it easy and being
they were white and the fog was clinging to them made it harder till they were close.
"ON DECK THERE, SAIL TO WINDWARD... TWO SAIL TO WINDWARD, MAN-O-WAR..." The pause was there as the lookout
stared hard to find all the hints as to the nationality and size. "THEY ARE SHIP OF THE LINE, I THINK FRENCH." One of the
ships commission pennant blew out at a right angle for him almost as if done on purpose so he could see the last thing he
needed for identification. "FRENCH SHIPS OF THE LINE TO WINDWARD, LESS THEN TWO MILES AND CLOSING ON US!!"
"Beat to quarters Mister Rutherford and have those toplights doused. Mister Foxall, I have the deck, see to your guns. Mister
Carson, have Burke take the young lady... Marie to the orlop to be with the Surgeon, I believe he is short a lob-lolly boy, she can
fill that roll." Captain Williams never raised his voice, he could have been making an observation in a drawing room over tea.
Two miles away Le Trajan(74) and Le Cassard(74) were closing on the toplights that were blazing away like stars. They had the
wind, size, and if the information was correct, the sailing abilities too. They would take this British Frigate stuffed full of gold and
carry them off to La Havre or Brest
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Jon Allen
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#246
04-10-2010, 10:30 AM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson had retreated to his wardroom to get a pocket handkerchief when he suddenly began to hear shouts,
and feet moving rapidly on the deck above his head.
Buttoning up his jacket, he headed back to the Quarterdeck and heard the last few pieces of the lookouts information.
The news sent a chill down the Marine Officer's spine, and he searched for words for his disbelief. French Man-O-Wars, here?
There had been no report of a blockade of Portsmouth, no news of a new declaration of war from London. A sneak attack was
devilish to say the least.
There was only one real explanation, they knew what the Terpsichore carried in her hold. Those French Captains, whether under
orders to or not, would risk war to line their pockets with their share of the prize.
As the Captain shouted orders his way, Thomas briskly raised his hand to the brim of his Shako hat and nodded, "Ay sir."
The drum was already beating. The sound of it echoed through the ship and sent the crew and the Marines scurrying to their
duty stations.
Thomas shouted, "Colour Sergeant Bourne, see to the disposition of One and Two Section! Report to me when they are at their
posts!
He quickly added, "Sergeant McKnight! Sergeant!"
The Sergeant in charge of the 3rd Section had just appeared above-deck. In full uniform and hat, with his musket held diagonally
across his chest.
The Sergeant stepped away forward to clear the way for others trying to get on-deck, then said, "Yes sir?"
"Sergeant, is half your section still protecting the cargo below?"
"Yes sir, they are," Sergeant McKnight replied.
"Good," Thomas remarked. "Keep five Marines with the cargo, and you lead them yourself. I want the rest of your section to
Sharpshooter posts in the Tops, two to the Foremast, two to the Main, one in the Mizzen. They'll report to the Colour Sergeant
and myself. See to it Sergeant McKnight."
"Yes sir!" The Sergeant said saluting, then turned and began loudly repeating the orders to a nearby Corporal.
Thomas returned the man's salute but was already marching off in the direction of the Wardroom to find Marie.
Walking into the room, Thomas found Marie and Burke.

With one gloved hand resting at the sword on his left hip, Thomas touched the brim of his Shako with two fingers and held it as
he tipped his head in a respectful fashion.
"Miss," he began. "Two French warships are in sight, we're clearing the deck for action. If you'd be so kind as to the Doctor and
assist him, he could use another set of hands."
Looking at Burke, Thomas said, "Burke, see to it the young Miss makes it to the Doctor, then see to your own duties. Do be
quick about it."
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Firefly
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#247
04-10-2010, 11:49 AM
"Warships?" Marie asked, almost to herself. She was still quite sleepy, having only been wakened moments before, but Thomas'
demeanor had a certain urgency and crisp seriousness to it that commanded her attention and lifted her out of her grogginess.
She nodded, "Of course, Mister Carson. I will do what I can to help the doctor. " Rubbing her face quickly to get the sleep out of
her eyes and to draw some warmth into her cheeks she added, "I know the way to sickbay. If Burke here has other duties, he
can see to them immediately. I needn't be escorted."
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Linette Geraud
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#248
04-10-2010, 03:32 PM
Aubrey was quiet after he had woken up the young steward. He had been quiet when going back up on the deck. Could it be
that it was the fog that had gotten to him? Everything had a surreal feeling to it, Marie's arrival adding to the mixture. Aubrey felt
on edge, a normal happenstance for him when it came to the fog. The purposely revelation of the gold was just the beginning,
then the fog, then Marie.
"ON DECK THERE, SAIL TO WINDWARD... TWO SAIL TO WINDWARD, MAN-O-WAR..."
Aubrey looked up towards the mast where Truck was at, listening intently for the next part then gazing towards where the ships
were said to be at, even though he knew he couldn't pierce the fog.
"THEY ARE SHIP OF THE LINE, I THINK FRENCH." Then the call of the excited Truck confirming what he had sighted.
"FRENCH SHIPS OF THE LINE TO WINDWARD, LESS THEN TWO MILES AND CLOSING ON US!!"
Aubrey could feel a chill go up his spine and his brow furrowed, it looked like the Terpsichore maybe in for a bit of trouble.
Heaven help the Terpsichore, he breathed a silent prayer.
"Beat to quarters, Mister Rutherford and have those toplights doused. Mister Foxall, I have the deck, see to your guns. Mister
Carson, have Burke take the young lady... Marie to the orlop to be with the Surgeon, I believe he is short a lob-olly boy, she can
fill that roll." Captain Williams never raised his voice, he could have been making an observation in a drawing room over tea.
Aubrey raised his voice calling out the drummer boy's name, "Mister Smythe, sound the drum, make it heard loud and clear!"
Smythe nodded, his drum sticks beating out the rhythm, calling the men from where they were at to make ready for battle. tap
tap, roll, tap tap; went the drum continually until the men were at their places.
"Douse the toplights!" Aubrey's voice came loud and clear, rising above the drum.
Aubrey looked towards the Captain,who seemed to have a relaxed air about him, inspite of the approaching ships. This was
going to test the true mettle of Captain Ruben Williams. Aubrey was pleased to see the air of calmness Ruben had about him,
the sign of a man ready to face anything and to keep the crew level headed.
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mgh_fond

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#249
04-10-2010, 04:32 PM
Le Trajan
Somewhere in the English Channel
Francois, at his captain's bidding, had clambered on up on the rigging in hopes of his youthful eyesight being able to pierce the
all enveloping fog locking the French ship in. He stopped when he figured he was far enough up to see yet low enough to be
easily heard by the waiting officers near the helm. And then he looked out into the fog shrouded sea.
It was a funny thing about fog such as this. Where it would ease in some places and thus allow visibility there, in other spots it
was still too thick for making out any sort of details. So while the British aboard the Terpsichore had managed to spot the two
French warships, the French were not as fortunate from their position.
Francois thought he saw a few flickers of lights out there but then they disappeared and did not twinkle back again. He was

unsure what they had been? It was his ears that were proving more useful at the moment. He thought he heard voices and a ra-
tat-tat of drums? As in when a ship is beating to quarters for it's crew?

"Sir!!! Captain! I see nothing!" he decided to shout down that part first.
"But...I think I hear something! Drums!" he quickly added that.
The captain of the Le Trajan heard the lad's shouts and glanced to his ships' officers standing around him. One shrugged as if he
heard nothing. Another offered at least something.
"I'm not sure, sir. But the forward lookout hasn't reported any sightings yet either. Would the Anglais even be out in this fog?"
"Why not? We are! If they too have a purpose in mind," the captain shrugged.
"What should we do, sir?"
"Nothing...not yet. Let's keep watching...listening. The first part of the plan was to escape port and we have done so. Let us not
overreact at this point," the captain decided aloud.
Francois had given his report and so far nothing had been shouted up to him in reply so he stayed where he was and gazed at
the white curtain of fog, wishing it would just break up someplace, somewhere. He was virtually certain that had been a
drumbeat too.
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Firefly
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#250
04-10-2010, 04:47 PM
Marie wrapped her blanket around her as she wound her way down to the orlop. She hoped the good doctor was already awake
-- and perhaps a bit less drunk -- but she didn't have the highest hopes.
As she walked, she noticed that her calf, while still quite sore, didn't seem to be doing too badly. With luck, she would avoid an
infection.
She could hear the frenzy of activity on the Terpsichore as the men prepared for battle. She hardly dared hope it, but considered
that perhaps one of these French ships was involved in the attack on the Albacore. Maybe there was a chance of finding her
father after all, or at least learning of his fate.
She knocked on the sickbay door. "Doctor Richardson!" she said, her voice loud and clear, "Are you awake?"
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Lupe
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#251
04-10-2010, 05:04 PM
Ships Surgeon Dick Richardson was scrabbling chests together and covering them with a blood stained piece of canvas. "Grab
that line girl and tie these chests together, tie them tight, when the men come down they will be thrashing about and we got to tie
them to the chests so we can work, we need a solid working platform." There was no sign of drunkenness in him now, that would
come later when the adrenaline had worn off.
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Firefly
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#252
04-10-2010, 06:20 PM
Marie's mouth went dry at he doctor's matter-of-fact discussion of what was likely to come. At least he seemed sober -- enough
that he could tell she was female at least. That was a good sign.
Taking a deep breath, she dropped the blanket from around her shoulders and set to work as instructed. She grabbed the
indicated line and lashed the chests together, pulling as tightly as she could. Marie was neither large, nor particularly strong, but
adrenaline coursed through her, and she threw herself fully into the task at hand.
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Mevynn
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Posts: 1965
#253
04-11-2010, 11:09 AM
By the time Sam stumbled back on the deck, he had missed most of the commotion. His hands were still sore, his head was still
pounding and the ship was still rocking in the harbour. That was until he realized the ship was no longer in the harbour at all, and
that most of the pounding in his head was caused by the sound of some kind of drum. Which was also the thing that had woken
him up in the first place.
The first time in his life he was actually sailing on the sea, with no direct access to close land. He looked around but the thick fog
prevented him to see how far they were already offshore. People were shouting, running, everyone was busy doing something, it
all seemed a bit unreal. And Sam himself had no clue what to do or what was going on.
Behind him he heard some sailor muttering, 'Gold, a woman on board, French ships closing in and we haven't even left the
Channel yet.'
Sam's hand reached for his dirk as he heard the last comment of the sailor, the first two didn't make much sense to him, but if
there was indeed a French ship in the neighbourhood, he needed something to defend himself with.
He heard Mister Rutherford shouting something concerning the toplights and headed towards the sound of the First Lieutenant's
voice. Not knowing what he should be doing or could be doing, he stood next to the First Lieutenant, ready to take any orders
the man would give to him, just as the Captain had explained to Sam what his job was going to be when he boarded the ship.
OOC: Yay, Sam woke up!
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Jon Allen
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#254
04-11-2010, 11:15 PM
As Marie replied, Lieutenant Thomas Carson nodded and replied, "Very good ma'm, thank you."

Turning away again, he left the wardroom and stepped out into the open deck. The crew were still scrambling to their positions.
As Thomas studied the deck and the controlled chaos, he saw something missing from the picture. His eyes drifted to the rails
and he nearly cursed aloud as he realized what he'd forgotten.
Taking several swift steps across the deck, Thomas stepped up beside a Corporal belonging to his 1st Section of the Marines.
"Sergeant, you men come with me," Thomas stated briskly, when the man hesitated, Thomas nearly shouted. "Now Sergeant."
The marines followed Thomas as he dashed below-decks to the armory at nearly a run. Thomas nearly tripped at least once but
barely slowed down. They had a lot to do and not much time to do it.
The locked doors were swung open, revealing the boxes and barrels inside.
Once the Marines had caught up to him, Thomas spun and said to the men, "I want four swivel guns on deck, two forward
against the bow, two aft, take powder and ball for them as well."
Reaching into a case, Thomas opened a lid. As he suspected, he saw a trio of musketoons inside. The short but thick-barreled
weapons were good for close action.
"I want sailors' pistols, musketoons, and boarding axes on-deck, wrap them in cloth," Thomas ordered. "Sergeant, see to it
there's a collection of them on the larboard and starboard sides of the deck."
"Yes sir," The Marine Sergeant responded.
The Sergeant stepped forward and began passing orders to the two Corporals with him, who in turn got the privates organized.
Some of them gathered the swivel guns and headed top-side, while others began to grab the barrels and cases holding the
armory's small arms.
Colour Sergeant Bourne suddenly appeared at the steps. The senior NCO had seen a full section run off with the Lieutenant and
went to see what the fuss was about.
As soon as he saw Thomas, he shouted, "LIeutenant Carson!"
Turning his head, Thomas said, "Colour Sergeant, we neglected the swivel guns, I'm sending four to the deck, plus as many
small arms as we can carry for the crew. We'll put them on-deck so we can get to them quickly."
"Very good sir," Bourne replied in his typically stoic fashion. The man was a virtual rock in the sea. He didn't see fazed at all by
their circumstances.
It was good for the men, but it unnerved Thomas a bit. The Marine Officer's mind was pushing 15 knots, racing, trying to prepare
every detail. The ship was new, this command was new. They had been given little time to prepare and train. Just as importantly,
Thomas had never found himself doing battle with a French Man-O-War before. This day was already shaping up to be the
biggest fight of his live.
He was scrambling to use every tool at their disposal. If it came to close action, they would be outnumbered. Thomas had no
intention of giving the frogs an easy victory and a hold full of gold.
Thomas picked up a musket for his own use, along with the gear that went with it, plus a pistol.
"Colour Sergeant, see to things here, "Thomas shouted. "I'll be on the Quarterdeck."
The privates, scrambling to grab what their Corporals passed to them, made a hole and allowed Thomas to head to the deck.
Top-side again, he nodded at the Quarterdeck as his hands were too full to salute.
Standing on the Quarterdeck, Thomas shoved the pistol into his belt and set to loading the Sea Service Musket.
Holding the long-barreled weapon just forward of the firing trigger, Thomas reached into the pouch he was wearing and pulled
out a paper cartridge.
Tucking the barrel of the musket into the inside of his elbow, Thomas tore off the end of the paper cartridge with his fingers. The
black powder inside nearly spilt instantly as the Terpsichore's deck rocked a bit. The Lieutenant fought the urge to curse as he
fought the shifting deck.
Finally the slight roll ended and Thomas proceeded to open the musket's frizzen. He poured a small amount of powder inside the
case, then closed it.

With his left hand, Thomas planted the butt-plate of the musket against the deck and pointed the barrel straight up. He poured
the remainder of the paper cartridge contents into the barrel. First the powder, then the dark musket ball.
Throwing the paper aside, Thomas pulled the steel ramrod out from beneath the musket's barrel and began to ram it down the
barrel. He felt a fierce resistance almost instantly and worked with every push to bring the musket ball to the farthest reaches of
the barrel.
Finally after four or five pushes of the ram-rod, he felt that the musket was ready. Pulling out the ram-rod, Thomas slipped it back
into it's place beneath the barrel and pushed it down until he felt the spring catch secure the ram-rod.
Now finally ready to fire, Thomas picked the musket up off the deck and cradled it in his arms. His right hand was wrapped
around the back of the weapon with his finger near the trigger. He left the barrel sitting in the crook of his arm, with his left hand
turned inward and his elbow turned at a roughly 90 degree right angle.
Thomas looked at the lock. It was still forward and he kept it that way. The Marine Officer didn't want it to release and
accidentally discharge.
The entire process of loading the musket had taken a while, in the meantime, some of the marines had begun to reappear on
deck. The first to appear were the men carrying the swivel guns. The swivel guns looked like small cannons, and indeed, that
was essentially what they were. But loaded with small rounds of shot and other projectiles, they could damage a ship or splinter
a crew badly.
A marine carrying a swivel gun and loading ram-rod quickly marched up the Quarterdeck and set the swivel gun on the deck
against the rail. He turned the barrel towards the French Man-O-War and began to load the swivel gun.
"Good work lad," Thomas told the private. "Stay with that gun."
"Ay sir," The private replied. The young man's voice was a flutter in the breeze, his nervousness was easy to detect. Fear was in
the young man's eyes as he began to load the swivel gun.
Taking a couple steps over, Thomas said, "Easy lad, stay calm."
Pausing, Thomas added, "Where you from Private?"
"Southern Ireland sir," the private replied.
Feinting surprise, Thomas replied, "Well then, the irish get their day to show the frenchies what-for, ay?"
Slapping the lad on the shoulder, Thomas said, "Just keep your wits about you lad, and you'll do fine. We've got the *******s right
where we want them."
The private cracked a grin at that and chuckled a bit at the joke, "Ay sir."
"Good lad," Thomas repeated, then walked back towards the middle of the Quarterdeck.
The Marine Officer looked the part of a man ready to fight. Loaded musket cradled in his arms, and a pistol shoved down into his
belt, plus the sword and scabbard on his hip. All the more impressive in the red uniform and shako hat. His face didn't betray the
inner nervousness he felt.
"Well then gentlemen," Thomas said aloud in a serious but witty tone. "They say gold drives men mad. I think the French will find
us maddening in our determination to keep it."
As eyes turned towards him, The Marine Officer dared crack that informal wide grin of his and flashed his eyebrows up for the
briefest of moments before he turned his eyes to the French warships amongst the white mist and fog.
Last edited by Jon Allen; 04-12-2010, 10:43 PM.
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Lupe
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Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#255
04-12-2010, 06:40 AM
Time, it all takes time, even an organized ship takes about ten minutes to clear for action, when you and the enemy are closing
on converging courses time is in short supply...

As it usually works at sea there was a freak clearing, a space where the fog, not gone was thinner. The Terpsichore broke into
this 'fairy ring' on one side and minutes later a French ship of the line broke through on the other sided. Giving both something
they both wanted and needed, a look at the enemy.
They were at extreme long cannon range, the upper deck twelves or maybe the nine pounders would reach but it was random
shot, at that range you could not aim accurately, it hit the ship or not haphazardly.
"Hold your fire." Ruben called down to the Gundeck. He was pretty sure Lieutenant Foxall would not burn powder for no gain but
he decided to be certain.
They had seen the Terpsichore, bunting had flown up the halyards as they signaled their consort, and even as the fog swallowed
them up again Ruben as seen the change in the line of the masts, they were closing a little faster.
That was when Ruben realized that he was not armed. "My sword." and he hurried down the companion and to the area that use
to be the Great Cabin, but was now part of the Gun Deck, the twelve pounders that had shared living space with him were now
manned and ran out.
He took his combat sword from a rack built on the bulkhead. It was a shabby looking blade but the temper was true and it had
kept him alive as a Masters Mate and Lieutenant. The beautiful presentation sword looked fine but he was not sure of it's mettle,
and he was not going to find out in a close action, kill or be killed fight to save his ship.
With a few strides and the steps two at a time he was on the Quarterdeck armed and ready to fight the enemies of England, at
what ever odds they come at them.
They again were in the thick fog, it was a weird sensation to know that two ships were hunting you and yet you could not see
them at all.
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#256
04-13-2010, 12:01 AM
Ruben looked at Aubrey and made the come here gesture.
Aubrey came in response to Ruben's gesture,
"I plan on closing faster then that rogue expects, he probably figures we will be heading to leeward now, but he might not know
we don't have room." Ruben said to Aubrey in a low tone then called out to the helm, "Luff and touch her, as close to the wind as
you can go."
"Aye Zur," the helmsman said in his West Country accent.
Aubrey listened intently, glancing back towards where the hidden French ships were. He yelled out, "Man the Braces! Look sharp
there." He kept watch over the workings of the men for a moment, then turned his attention back to Ruben.
The familiar chant could be heard, 'one... two... three... belay-o!' "bowlines hauled, Sir!"
In undertones he continued, "we will hit them hard then wear around into the fog, then tack up as tight into the wind as we can
ever stay and head for the French side of the Channel."
Aubrey nodded, the move was risky but he felt that it was necessary and he verbalized it. "Captain, we are caught between a
rock and a hard place and the maneuver risky, but I also feel what you are planning is indeed necessary. I truly don't think the
Terpsichore can handle being caught between the two ships, she'd be ripped to shreds by the cannons and our mission will fail
and I don't wish to have that happen. I trust your instincts, Captain Williams."
"We can't run to Leeward, and the best thing we can do is hit them before they are ready, just ghost up on them." He then called
out, "don't strike the bell anymore." then back to the undertone, "smash them hard and disappear before they can hit back." He
looked at his First Lieutenant, "I really don't see any other options, you fight or run, we can't run, their taller masts give them
better airs in this fog, and giving up is not what I joined the Navy for."
"I don't see any other option either sir, and I didn't join the Navy to give up either." Aubrey replied, listening to the Captain with
one ear and the silence that came over the ship. "Once we get an opening Captain, and we can run, I do suggest that we do so."

"As fast as smoke and oakem." Ruben promised. "We have to go South anyway, but nothing in our orders say how fast we go
South. We just have to get clear of these two... jokers."
Aubrey nodded and smiled, "Captain, it is indeed an honor to be serving under you."
"Let's hope it lasts a little longer then first light." Ruben said dryly.
Again Aubrey nodded, "And may the Good Lord watch over us at this time." he said prayerfully. Something he had learned from
his tutor, the chaplain on his father's ship.
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Dorella Allerod
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 3536
#257
04-13-2010, 04:09 PM
She nodded, "Of course, Mister Carson. I will do what I can to help the doctor. " Rubbing her face quickly to get the sleep out of
her eyes and to draw some warmth into her cheeks she added, "I know the way to sickbay. If Burke here has other duties, he
can see to them immediately. I needn't be escorted."
As Marie replied, Lieutenant Thomas Carson nodded and replied, "Very good ma'm, thank you."
Turning away again, he left the wardroom and stepped out into the open deck. The crew were still scrambling to their positions.
Burke watched as Marie and Lieutenant Carson left and wondered what his duties were and what all the commotion was, there
seemed to be an excitement in the Lieutenant's voice.
The front wall of the cabin came down, the carpenter and his mates, hammers in hand were knocking out the wedges. "Don't
stand there boy, get a move on." One of the mates said.
The gunners for the six twelve pound guns in the Great Cabin, came in and one of the gun captains grabbed him, "you be
Burke?"
"Aye Sir," Burke stammered.
"Your my powder monkey, Go forward and down to the powder magazine and get one of the buckets with a powder charge and
bring it to me at that gun," He pointed to the cannon in the corner of the larboard side of the ship. "Jump to it boy!" The Gun
Captain told him shaking his shoulder a little then pushing Burke forward.
Burke stumbled as the Gun Captain shoved him then scrambled quickly forward and down to the powder magazine.
A stream of boys going to the magazine were each handed a gallon size bucket with a lid on it, inside was a cloth bag full of
gunpowder. As they got their bucket they ran out and back up on deck.
Burke received his bucket and quickly went back to the cannon the Gun Captain pointed at.
The gun captain grabbed him and moved him to the center of the room behind the cannon, he pulled the bucket out of Burke's
hands and set it on the deck. "Sit there lad, and wait there till our gun calls for powder, the instant we do you open the bucket
and give it to him." pointing at the powder man, "then you run back to the magazine and get another one." He shook a finger at
Burke, "if we have to wait for you to bring us powder you better hope it's because your dead."
Burke quickly sat on the bucket and fought back tears as he was feeling a bit panicky at this point. He had wanted an adventure
when he joined up, but this was not the kind of adventure he was hoping for. He kept a look out for stray bullets or something, he
was going to dodge them, he didn't want to end up dead.
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#258

04-13-2010, 11:22 PM
Le Trajan
In the rigging
Well, they had spotted another ship, a sharp-eyed or maybe it was lucky sailor cried out the sighting first. Francois only saw it
after the shout and even then not for a long time before the vessel was swallowed again by another huge fog bank.
The captain had ordered the ship's crew to battle stations though and below him it was a noisy madhouse of drumming,
shouting, and men rushing about each with their own particular duties to attend.
Francois had started to climb down to report to his station but he only got a few steps and he could hear the captain's stentorian
roar even above the rest of the chaos.
"Stay up there! Keep a close eye! Shout out if you see anything!"
So he was to remain in the rigging for....well, who knew how much longer. With a muttering no one could possibly hear, Francois
renewed his tight grip on the rigging and tried once more to pierce the thick fog. A part of him wondered if the ships might even
crash into each other? He dismissed that not wanting to think of the consequences of such an action on his own precarious
position above the deck.
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Ragsdale
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 418
#259
04-15-2010, 02:01 PM
Andrew was still trying to make sense of Marie's arrival when the lookout up above shouted out his warning.
"Beat to quarters Mister Rutherford and have those toplights doused. Mister Foxall, I have the deck, see to your guns. Mister
Carson, have Burke take the young lady... Marie to the orlop to be with the Surgeon, I believe he is short a Lob-Lolly boy, she
can fill that roll," said the captain.
Foxall was already running towards the main gun deck as he shouted, "Aye sir". Descending below deck, he was pleased to see
the walls to the Captain's quarters were already coming down and some of the more proficient crews were running their guns
out. Andrew made a mental note to get the other crews up to speed.
"Mr. Harris, Mr. Rawlins!"
"Sir," the two midshipmen under him chorused as they reported to Foxall.
"Mr. Harris you have the fore division, Mr. Rawlins the aft. Make sure your crews are ready; starboard guns first, then ready the
larboard guns as well. Any questions?"
After shaking their heads no, Andrew dismissed the two quasi-officers to attend to their duties. The two midshipmen could not be
more different. Tarleton Harris was a youth of barely 15 years and you could see the nervous excitement on his face. Although
inexperienced, Andrew sensed he was up to the task and trusted him fully. John Rawlins on the other hand was older than even
Foxall. His expression bore little of what he felt inside; no doubt because of his experience with previous battles. Andrew could
not quite understand why the Midshipman had not made lieutenant yet. He seemed capable handling the guns from what he'd
seen and did not detect a problem with alcohol. Still, the fact that he had been passed over kept nagging at Andrew.
As for himself, Andrew was filled with that mixture of excitement and terror. He had seen what happened to men's bodies when
lead and wood shards tore into their flesh. He had heard the cry of agony and the smell of feces as wounded men soiled
themselves. And yet, the prospect of battle still intrigued Andrew. He wanted to go up against his foe and prove that he was best.
All these thoughts raced through his mind as he anticipated the smell of the gunpowder; a smell that was noxious and, yet,
strangely pleasant.
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Lupe
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Posts: 9349
#260
04-15-2010, 10:01 PM
Once the she was cleared for action, guns loaded and ran out all was quiet.
As the ship ghosted along Ruben had some decisions to make, he would like to have darkened ship, right now the battle
lanterns lit the ship with their dim glow. If the crew had been thoroughly worked up they could put the lights out and work in the
dark, buying time for the surprise. With the scratch crew and no real practice time that was really not an option.
Captain Williams stepped up to the rail and looked down on the gun deck, "Mister Foxall, stand by on the larboard side, chain on
top of shot, three rounds as fast as you can then we will wear around, when we do the Starboard side should get one hit, make
sure it happens."
They ghosted along for several more minutes before they heard in the fog, ding-ding ding-ding ding. Ruben looked at Aubrey,
"five bells already" he said in an undertone, then stepping forward he called softly to the silent gundeck, "standby."
There was a vague looming in the fog, a hint, a shape, then a ship.
Less then one hundred yards away. The two ships closing on each other...
All was silent on both sides then Ruben yelled, "fire!"
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#261
04-18-2010, 02:07 PM
Sam didn't know what to do, all he did was just stand there, looking around at the action beside him. People moving with guns,
barrels, canonballs, taking down part of the Captain's headquarters. He thightened the grip on his dirk. The only fighting
experience he had was that from on the street. Barehanded, or with wooden swords, the biggest injury he had obtained that way
where some bruising. But now, as he saw the measurements that were being taken Sam felt scared.
If the Terp was taking such preparation, would the other ships too? What if he was hit with a canonball from the other ship? What
if those canonballs made a hole in the ship? What if the ship would start to make water? He looked around with a panic look in
his eye. Should he climb into the riggings when the ship would be hit. He'd be able to stay out of the water longer. But what if he
lost his grip at such a height, he'd be in the water in no time. Or maybe worse, he could end up on the deck and break
something. Would he be able to swim back to the shore? Which direction was the shore anyway? Sam took a few steps away
from the railing. He didn't know how to swim!
All these thought were running through his head, while things became quiet on the ship, he turned towards his uncle, opening
his mouth as if he wanted to say something but then he noticed how Captain Williams and Mister Rutherford stood at the rail.
Neither of them seemed to be scared. Didn't they know what was going to happen? Didn't they realize the danger they were in?
He had to warn them.
However before he could say something Sam heard the command, "Fire." As hell broke lose and the canons started to fire, Sam
almost covered his ears, as the shots were almost deafening after the silence they had heard.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#262
04-19-2010, 08:34 PM
The preparations were done, and all that could be heard were the creaking of the timbers as the Terpsichore rocked in the gentle
waves of the English Channel. A lantern rocked side to side gently with the motion of the ship and Marie glanced up to it, and
then back to the instruments on the makeshift table.
They had a dull, sinister sheen to them in the dim light of the orlop deck. She shuddered. They were weapons of war, just of a
different sort, and she prayed that they would not need to make use of them.

Looking over at Doctor Richardson, she decided that she had underestimated him in their first encounter. His eyes, which had
earlier been clouded and glassy with rum, were now clear and intent as he peered at the timbers above him as though
attempting to peer through them. He had given her clear and specific orders as they had prepared the space for battle. And not
once had he complained that he'd been assigned a woman for an assistant. This alone had won him her sincere respect, and
she promised herself she would not underestimate him again.
She leaned back against the bulkhead and slowly lowered herself to the deck, her eyes rising upwards, unconsciously emulating
the doctor's gaze. Clasping her hands before her face, she bit her knuckle as the first thunderous report of the Terpsichore's
cannons reverberated through the lower decks.
Marie closed her eyes. "Dieu nous sauve!", she whispered. God save us!
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Lupe
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Posts: 9349
#263
04-20-2010, 12:37 PM
Marie closed her eyes. "Dieu nous sauve!", she whispered. God save us!
The Surgeon looked at her and told her calmly, "In Deus nos fides, but in this case, it's a mater of; Caput est nostrum Deus." He
grinned, then pulled out the case bottle of rum and opening it he took a drink.
Offering it to her, "it's physic, medicine, calm the nerves, you will need them calm very soon." He gestured with the bottle again,
"take it. I could give you ten drops of the Laudanum but I don't want to give you opiates before the battle, maybe after..."
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#264
04-20-2010, 09:07 PM
Marie's eyes flashed sideways to look at the surgeon, his weathered hand wrapped around the neck of the bottle of rum like
some kind of leathery claw as he poked it in her direction.
She paused a moment, not really wanting to take it. Her stomach twisted itself in knots and for a moment, she felt as though she
was going to cry. So much had happened in the last two days; it all seemed like some kind of bad dream. Her father gone, her
governess gone, and now down here with the surgeon waiting for the horror that was to come; it all seemed unreal to her. She
began to shake her head...
BOOM.
The timbers of the Terpsichore shuddered and the lanterns shook as her cannons fired another volley. The sound was
thunderous and terrifying all the way down in the orlop deck; Marie dared not think of what was happening above.
She clamped her jaw fiercely shut and managed, for now, to fight back the tears. It will not do to cry, Marie, she told herself, You
must be strong. Reaching with one shaky hand she snatched the bottle from the surgeon, and glanced up at him.
He nodded, so she put it to her lips and lifted the bottle. She took only a tiny swig, but still, she felt the warmth of it burn down
her throat and into her belly. She handed to bottle back to him.
"I'll be fine," she said, surprising herself a bit with the strength and clarity of her voice. It certainly sounded more confident than
she felt.
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429

#265
04-20-2010, 10:17 PM
The cannons roared and the ship shuddered from the recoil. Ruben heard the chain shot hitting it's mark, a moment later the
mizzen mast of the Frenchman swayed, swayed again then fell down all in a piece, lines, cordage, sails masts, spars, they went
over the far side of the ship and didn't mask the guns but they did create a sea anchor which started to swing the big ship around
and heal her over hard... that was when her first guns went off.
The shriek of the chain, grape, and even bar shot was pain to the heart, Ruben knew the rigging would be a mess, but it was to
high, the shot was made as the ship healed over, and the projectiles didn't hit what they were aimed at.
He knew they hit something, he had heard it strike wood, a mast or spar, or both was wounded, maybe even going to come
down on the men serving the guns, standing here directing the fight, but he could not worry about that, not right now, "pour it into
them lads!" He yelled to the cheering men, "her poop, rake her my lads, fire again, fire!" He was yelling himself hoarse.
High over head, the main top-gallant mast was shot through, it was being held by it's stays and shrouds. The problem was the
stays and shrouds were all shot through too, and most of them were gone already. The mast twisted on it's lower piece and that
was enough, it parted the last of it's hold and fell, straight down like an arrow from heaven, if it had hit the deck it would have
been just like an arrow and pierced all the way to the bottom and sank them all right there, but enough lines, yards and trailing
wreckage turned and twisted it so that the mast fell, almost impossibly on the deck instead of overboard, the butt of it on top of
the Starboard guns and their crews, the Royal mast and most of it's sails and yards on the Quarter deck. The Starboard guns
were all masked by the sails and wreckage the larboard guns encumbered by the yards, cordage, and plain chaos.
The Master had stepped away from the Captain and First Lieutenant to check the compass and chart, they were to come about
soon, so he had been clear of the falling mess. The Midshipman detailed to stand near the Captain and relay messages, another
first voyager at the age of 13 was killed instantly when the Royal mast landed on him.
Ruben was swept off his feet then dashed to the deck, the Royal yard arm having hit beside him and bounce up hitting him in the
side and breaking his arm, while it's ropes tripped him. His last thoughts before his head hit the deck and bounce off a ring-bolt
were, "Where the hell did that come from?"
Aubrey could feel the vibrations of the Terpsichore through the soles of his feet, as her cannons announced her outrage towards
her unwanted French suitors. She all ready had someone which was better suited for her, and that was Captain Ruben Williams.
He silently echoed the elation of the men when their shots hit the approaching French ship. He added his voice to the captain's
making certain all could hear the captain's orders, urging the men to continue their onslaught
Chain and barshot for the masts, grapeshot for those on deck to make more chaos and less people to deal with on deck.
Inwardly Aubrey shuddered thinking of the havoc the metal slugs did to any flesh it came in contact with, a deadly metallic rain.
He thought he heard screams from the French ship in between the roars of the cannons.
Aubrey was straining to see the condition of their opponent through the smoke, fog and the eruption of flame from the cannons,
and didn't realize the mast had been hit. He was alerted that something was happening when his hat was knocked off by a piece
of wood coming from above. Aubrey looked up to see part of the mast with the jack-block coming down fast. Aubrey only had
time for a step or two back, to try to avoid the jack-block. It only helped slightly keeping the pulley from hitting him directly which
would have killed him. Instead the glancing blow knocked him back, Aubrey stumbled and went down under other debris and a
part of the sail, disappearing from view.
And as fate usually did, Sam, less then ten feet away, was left completely unharmed. The Sailing Master, Erasmus Bunts, a
stern old man looked at Sam, the only 'Officer' left standing on the Quarter-deck. "Your in command now sonny, till someone
senior gets here. I suggest we make our turn now while we can, before the other ship comes down on us," he said, not unkindly,
he stepped over the wreckage and closer to the boy, then in a whisper to Sam, "they are looking to you now, stand firm, show no
fear, they need you to lead."
One of the Sailors cried out, "the Captain and First Lieutenant are down, I think they are dead!"
JP by Captain Ruben Williams
and
Lt. Aubrey Rutherfod
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Ragsdale

Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 418
#266
04-21-2010, 01:12 PM
"Fire!" Andrew shouted as the cannon erupted in flame and smoke. "Come on lads, move quickly now. This is where the battle is
won! Right here, getting our guns to fire more quickly than theirs."
The grey smoke hung thickly on the gun deck. Foxall breathed in it deeply. His crew were performing well and he was proud of
them. Likewise, Mr. Harris and Mr. Rawlins were encouraging and holding rein over their divisions.
"Come on now, lads!"
As soon as the guns were ready, Andrew gave the command to fire once again. Suddenly, a loud thud sounded above him. The
battle raged all around him, but he didn't have time to worry about what was happening above deck. He couldn't do anything
about what was happening there. This was his corner of the fight and he sought to control his corner.
"Fire!"
The shells slammed into the French ship. Chain shot also tore through the rigging of the enemy vessel. Cheers rose through the
gun deck as the mizzen mast of the French man-of-war began to topple.
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#267
04-22-2010, 01:03 PM
"I'll be fine," she said, surprising herself a bit with the strength and clarity of her voice. It certainly sounded more confident than
she felt.
The first casualty came down, as with any new scratch crew, this man had not moved fast enough and the gun had ran over his
foot. It was an ugly mess but Doctor Richards took a pull of rum then pushed the bottle into the man's mouth, Marie could hear it
glug glug glug as raw spirits were poured down his throat. Dick talked as he worked, as if to train this new person how to do the
job. He spoke French, the girl had talked in French and it was close enough to Latin the Sailors would not realize the difference.
Later he would find out if she spoke any Latin.
"We might can save the foot, see here, and here, it's badly crushed but still connected." Then in English to the man, "this will
hurt, hold yourself still and we might save your poor foot." Back to French, "chain him down and there is a leather gag there, put
it deep in his mouth, so he bites it and not his tongue." He handed the bottle to Marie, "pour it over his foot, the alcohol dulls the
pain, maybe cleans the wound, it's empirical but any little bit helps."
By the time the foot was finished and bandaged the man was limp, having passed out from the alcohol and pain. Two splinter
wounds and a musket ball were brought in, the man with the gunshot died on the table as soon as his mess mates set him down,
Dick looked at them, "no, to late, take him, next!" The splinters were jagged and Dick made sure to get the blacking out of the
wound at the same time as the wood. "This was part of a yardarm, see this?" he held up the flake of blacking with his whale
bone tweezers, "they black the yardarms to make them look pretty. Got to get all of it out."
He drank as much as he poured down the men's throats.
He explained the treatment of the wound to Marie as he worked, sometimes the after care and what had to be watched out for
with that kind of wound, he also made non sequitur comments in the middle. Things like, "War is hell for those not doing the
actual fighting" and "bloody minded Navy Officers that will attack anything" or "The Revolution was the worst thing to happen to
the French, killed everything good about them."
Then a really ugly wound came in, a large piece of oak had gone in at the shoulder blade and slid all the way down the mans
back across the ribs to be poking out just above his kidneys. "I need a bigger blade, sharper too, chain him down, I will be right
back."
tag Marie

Doctor Richards came back the room with a large catlin*, held close to his body to prevent him from stabbing anyone
accidentally. The ship gave a lurch and so did he the other way, he tumbled to the deck on his face. He turned on his side, his
legs curling in a fetal position and his hands holding the now very bloody handle of the knife that was buried deep in his chest.
tag Marie
"You got to pull it out... you need it to help that man... I am done for... there is to much damage... if I live... gangrene... sepsis...
but most likely I would bleed... to... death." He looked at her and pulled his hand off the handle as if it was glued to it, then
quickly grabbed her hand and put her hand on the now bloody handle. "You don't have time..." His eyes squeezed shut as a
spasm of pain shot through him, "you have to."
tag Marie
* http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catlin_(surgery)
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Dorella Allerod
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 3536
#268
04-22-2010, 10:05 PM
The gun captain turned to Burke, "powder"
Burke's heart pounded as he jumped off the bucket, yanking the lid open and handing it to the powder man.
Not taking the bucket the powder man instead grabbed the cloth bag of powder and pulled it out of the bucket to thrust it in the
cannon.
Burke remembered the Gun Captain's words, 'if you make us wait for powder you better be dead' Still latched to the bucket he
began running back to the powder magazine.
About half way there the cannons started going off.
Boom, Boom
He tripped at the shock of it, the bucket went flying. He scrambled quickly and grabbed his bucket and continued to the powder
room his heart now pounding and in his throat, he felt he could not breath.
The Gunner's Mate dropped another flannel cartridge of powder in Burke's bucket.
He began running back as fast as he could. He heard screams, the rolling fire of cannons, the crack of muskets. He had no time
to dodge bullets. He ran faster, maybe that would keep him from getting hit, at least in his mind.
Even as Burke came running up the Gun Captain called, "powder!"
Burke gave the powder and started the run again, his heart still in his throat, he swallowed but it would not go back to his chest.
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#269
04-22-2010, 11:28 PM
Le Trajan
Above deck
Suddenly Francois got a real birds-eye view of the enemy as the now definitely English ship cleared a fogbank and opened up
with all it's guns on his vessel. At first glance, the enemy was only a frigate, not a good match against a bigger upgunned ship of
the line like Le Trajan. But this frigate had gotten the jump on them.

Shot screamed in at the French ship as the English fired their first broadside. It proved more accurate than the young
Frenchman could have possibly imagined. Most of the damage occurred to the rigging and that was just where Francois was
clinging upon as he was a helpless observer to the action.
Francois heard a loud crack, the mast began to actually move! It started leaning to one side, the English had broken the mast!
There was no time to escape, to clamber down once he realized just what had happened. He was going down with this mass of
wood, sail, and ropes. Involuntarily he screamed as he was literally tossed free by the momentum. It was with almost miraculous
fortune that Francois managed to hit the dark sea water feet first.
His head soon emerged above the surface as he gasped for air. He had survived but his problems were only starting. He was in
freezing cold water and even though he could swim, he wouldn't last long in such brutal conditions. He was in deep trouble and
he knew it even as he struggled to stay afloat.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#270
04-23-2010, 12:58 PM
The thunder of the cannons, the sound of cracking wood, the mast coming down, cries of the men as they got hurt or killed. It
was all overwhelming and Sam? Sam just stood there, not able to move or even to seek shelter. Something, he never saw what,
passed his ear so close, he could hear the wind whistling in his ear, as the object passed. Only one thought went through his
head: why did his father send him to this ship?
Only when an old sailor talked to him, Sam reacted and he looked in disbelief towards Erasmus Bunts. Had he heard correctly?
Was he in command of this vessel? Panic started to show on his face, he opened his mouth and closed it again, a few times, like
a fish gasping for air on dry land, until the old sailor whispered something else in his ear.
Then he remembered how the Captain and the First Lieutenant had stood at the railing just before the shooting had started. He
put his hand on the grip of his sword, straightened his shoulders.
He swallowed as he heard the news that Captain Williams and Mister Rutherford got killed. He looked again at the old sailor for
confirmation or support. Then he opened his mouth, and shouted, "Keep on firing." Not knowing if the ship still had any working
cannons left.
Sam took a moment to look around, there was nothing but chaos in the fog. Then he smelt it, it wasn't only fog, something was
burning. He yelled, "Someone kill that fire, wherever it is."
He tried to remember what the commands where that his uncle had given before this all started. But he didn't have a clue, which
direction did he have to go? Were there any other ships? Had the ship they had fired upon still any firepower left?
Remembering what the old sailor had said, he shouted, "Turn around, turn around." Not knowing if he was giving the right order
or not.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#271
04-23-2010, 01:44 PM
[OOC: I've reposted Lupe's parts here, so this reads as one continuous post. Hope that's okay with everyone.]
"I'll be fine," she said, surprising herself a bit with the strength and clarity of her voice. It certainly sounded more confident than
she felt.
The first casualty came down, as with any new scratch crew, this man had not moved fast enough and the gun had run over his
foot. It was an ugly mess but Doctor Richards took a pull of rum then pushed the bottle into the man's mouth, Marie could hear it
glug glug glug as raw spirits were poured down his throat. Dick talked as he worked, as if to train this new person how to do the
job. He spoke French, the girl had talked in French and it was close enough to Latin the Sailors would not realize the difference.
Later he would find out if she spoke any Latin.

"We might can save the foot, see here, and here, it's badly crushed but still connected." Then in English to the man, "this will
hurt, hold yourself still and we might save your poor foot." Back to French, "chain him down and there is a leather gag there, put
it deep in his mouth, so he bites it and not his tongue." He handed the bottle to Marie, "pour it over his foot, the alcohol dulls the
pain, maybe cleans the wound, it's empirical but any little bit helps."
By the time the foot was finished and bandaged the man was limp, having passed out from the alcohol and pain. Two splinter
wounds and a musket ball were brought in, the man with the gunshot died on the table as soon as his mess mates set him down,
Dick looked at them, "no, to late, take him, next!" The splinters were jagged and Dick made sure to get the blacking out of the
wound at the same time as the wood. "This was part of a yardarm, see this?" he held up the flake of blacking with his whale
bone tweezers, "they black the yardarms to make them look pretty. Got to get all of it out."
He drank as much as he poured down the men's throats.
He explained the treatment of the wound to Marie as he worked, sometimes the after care and what had to be watched out for
with that kind of wound, he also made non sequitur comments in the middle. Things like, "War is hell for those not doing the
actual fighting" and "bloody minded Navy Officers that will attack anything" or "The Revolution was the worst thing to happen to
the French, killed everything good about them."
Then a really ugly wound came in, a large piece of oak had gone in at the shoulder blade and slid all the way down the mans
back across the ribs to be poking out just above his kidneys. "I need a bigger blade, sharper too, chain him down, I will be right
back."
Marie had been working in a pure stimulus-response mode, trying as much as possible not to think about what was actually
happening around her. She focused intently on Doctor Richards' words, absorbing everything he said; his steady demeanor and
calm efficiency the the midst of all of this soothed her and made her concentrate only on the moment.
The intensity of her focus made it easier to deal with the horrors she was witnessing: the disconnected flesh, the blood, the
exposed bone, the trail of the dead man's blood spattered on the floor leading away from the temporary surgical table. She was
so focused on doing exactly what the doctor said that she received all of these sights on only a dim level. It was like tunnel
vision. Her world was shrunk down to only those things that immediately mattered: tie this here, pull that over there, shove this
into the man's mouth and hold tight, wipe the slippery red from your hands.
I will be right back.
Marie blinked, as though pulling herself from a trance. The realization finally hit her that the doctor had left her alone to deal with
this man on the table. She felt the hot edges of panic begin to crawl up her back, but knew she did not have time for such
luxuries, and managed to quickly snap herself into action. As awful as the surgery was going to be for this poor man, it would be
no mercy to him for her to delay the treatment.
Working efficiently, she moved from side to side, strapping the man down in a position that fully exposed his injury. Grabbing the
bottle of rum, she poured it as the doctor had on both ends where the oak protruded from the skin, then lifted the bottle to the
man's lips.
"Drink," she ordered, her voice soft but firm.
The man did not hesitate, and took two long draughts from the bottle.
"Good," she whispered, setting the bottle aside. Setting a hand gently on the man's unwounded shoulder, she whispered, "Be
strong. This will be over soon."
Doctor Richards came back the room with a large catlin*, held close to his body to prevent him from stabbing anyone
accidentally. The ship gave a lurch and so did he the other way, he tumbled to the deck on his face. He turned on his side, his
legs curling in a fetal position and his hands holding the now very bloody handle of the knife that was buried deep in his chest.
Marie's eyes opened wide at the sight of the doctor on the floor, blood oozing out onto the handle of the catlin. She dashed over,
kneeling beside him.
"You got to pull it out... you need it to help that man... I am done for... there is too much damage... if I live... gangrene... sepsis...
but most likely I would bleed... to... death." He looked at her and pulled his hand off the handle as if it was glued to it, then
quickly grabbed her hand and put her hand on the now bloody handle. "You don't have time..." His eyes squeezed shut as a
spasm of pain shot through him, "you have to."

Marie felt the slick warmth of the surgeon's blood on the handle of the catlin, her small hand encased within his. Still in shock,
she looked up to the other men ... boys, really, in the surgeon's cockpit who'd brought the wounded down. She desperately
hoped that they would take charge; that someone else would know what to do, but their wide, panicked eyes held no comfort for
her.
Dick Richardson winced again, squeezing her hand as he croaked out, "You... must."
The next few moments were a blur. Closing her eyes, she winced, pulled the catlin out of the surgeon and stood without looking
back. She turned to the man on the table and only then opened her eyes.
"Donner au médecin un peu de rhum," she commanded in French to the boys standing nearby.
They looked at her blankly.
"Donnez-lui une bouteille de rhum!" she shouted.
Still nothing. With a start, she realized that she'd been so distressed that she was shouting in French. She turned to the patient
on the table and switched to English. Her voice was low, but strong.
"Give the doctor a bottle of rum. And over there, in that drawer, is some black thread and in the drawer below are some needles.
Get them quickly and thread the needles."
She held up the catlin, still slick with the surgeon's blood. She poured a bit of rum on the blade, and again on the man's back.
She knew that oak could not be pulled from a wound, though she couldn't remember where she'd learned that. Must've been
something the doctor had told her. She would have to cut it out.
The man on the table moaned, the muscles in his back cramped and locked tight in spasms. The oak spar seemed not too deep
under the skin, and the bleeding was slow from the two wounds -- perhaps he would survive. But it would need to be a long cut,
and she would have to pick out any splinters, then sew quickly to close the wound afterwards. She was thankful that she'd
strapped him down very tightly. This would be painful.
She pulled the leather gag into the man's mouth and told one of the men standing there to hold it in place. Everything was in
place. Bottle of rum, whalebone tweezers, catlin, rags for controlling the bleeding.
It was time.
She closed her eyes, said a silent prayer, and then moved, drawing the catlin quickly, but deeply along the man's back to reveal
the oak spar.
Last edited by Firefly; 04-24-2010, 11:17 AM. Reason: Minor typo corrections.
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#272
04-23-2010, 04:37 PM
Remembering what the old sailor had said, he shouted, "Turn around, turn around." Not knowing if he was giving the right order
or not.
Erasmus Bunts moved, he whipped up the speaking trumpet and called, "Hands wear ship!" Then he turned to the men at the
wheel and called to them, "hard over! New course, East North East and a half East, or as close to as you can lay."
The second ship came out of the fog, it's guns firing even as the Terpsichore was paying off, the cannon balls tearing up the sea
where the Terp would have been if she had not worn.
The Frigate spun on her heals and was drawing up tight to the wind on the opposite tack, going the way she came. The
Starboard guns could not fire even though it was a perfect target, the burning canvas and broken spars were lying across the
guns and even some of the men that served them.
Bunts expanded on the Midshipman's other order, "fire parties, fire parties, to the gun deck, douse that fire!"
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Mevynn

Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#273
04-25-2010, 01:18 PM
For a very short moment, Sam looked amazed at Erasmus Bunts. Was it really that easy? He said something and the old Sailing
Master repeated it, for the others to follow orders. Of course if Sam would give a wrong order, it would be repeated too.
"Keep an eye out for the other ships, if they are in fire range, I want to know," Sam gave a last order.
In the mean time, more questions popped up in his head, should he look for the Captain and the First Lieutenant or should he do
something else? He was about to walk to the last location he had seen his uncle as he changed his mind. What was the use
looking for people if the ship was sinking? Everyone would be in danger if they were on a sinking ship.
He quickly walked towards the railing and looked at the side of the ship. Was the mast the only damage or had there been
more? Stepping over all sorts of rope, wood, debris and what else that was on the deck, he hurried to the other side and did
exactly the same thing. Now he was certain there weren't any holes in the ship that shouldn't be there, he returned and shouted,
"Clear out the cannons, we might need them again."
Slowly he walked towards the last position he had seen his uncle and looked at the chaos on the deck. Part of the mast, rigging,
rope, iron pieces, he didn't know where to begin. Should he drop things overboard, or would they need it to repair the ship? If he
tossed things on the deck somewhere, it would probably be the safest option. He started to pull part of the rigging that was on
top of all. But it was stuck somewhere at the railing. He moved away towards the railing again and thraced back to where it was
stuck.
Part of the rope was in the water and something or rather someone was holding on to the rigging. Sam figured he had been too
focused on the ship earlier to notice there had been someone in the water. He couldn't see however if the man was already dead
or not, when he suddenly saw the young man making a movement. He was still alive. "Man overboard and he's still alive," Sam
shouted again.
Some sailors that were on the deck behind him, helped pulling the rigging and the man up and pulled him onboard the Terp. Sam
hardly looked at the face, neither did he know, he had pulled up a Frenchman from one of the other ships, "Take him to the
doctor, he must be freezing."
ooc: hope it's ok and this should put Francois on board
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#274
04-26-2010, 01:24 AM
Marie picked the last of the oaken splinters from the sailor's back, his cries of anguish only partly muffled by the leather gag. She
clamped her jaw tightly shut and furrowed her brow, doing her best to ignore him as she began to suture the wound closed.
The man had been lucky. Though the spar had pierced him badly, it had not severed any major arteries, nor had it penetrated his
rib cage or damaged a kidney. If he managed to avoid an infection, he stood a good chance of surviving the ordeal.
By the time she was tying the last knot, the man had mercifully passed out. Whether it was the rum or the pain -- or both -- Marie
didn't care. With the help of the two young sailors who'd brought him down, she wrapped the poor soul in linen bandages. Then,
she quickly turned her attention to Doctor Richards, who was still laying in a fetal position on the deck. Sinking down to her
knees, she rested a hand on his forehead.
He was dead.
The bottle of rum in his lifeless hands was mostly empty, and she hoped he'd found one last bit of comfort in it before he
departed.
Speaking to the two sailors who'd brought him down, she nodded her head in the direction of the man on the table and said,
"Take him over to sickbay and set him in a cot. Then come back here."
"But, miss..." the taller of the two began, "we've got duties above and..."

"Fine," she said, her voice clipped as she looked up at him, "Then you go attend to them. But first, you must tell the Captain that
the surgeon has died and that we need his replacement here, whoever that is. But you," she pointed at the shorter one, "In the
meantime, I need you here to help me. There are likely to be more casualties coming our way. We will need to take care of them,
and I can't do it by myself."
Somewhat startled by the tone of authority in her voice, and perhaps swayed by her logic, the lad nodded, "Yes miss!" And the
two boys unstrapped their comrade and carried him off to sickbay.
Marie sat on the deck and slumped against the bulkhead next to the lifeless body of Doctor Richardson. As she closed her eyes,
she rested her forearms on her knees and her bloodstained hands began to tremble.
As the boys left the surgeon's cockpit, she whispered, "S'il vous plaît, Dieu. Pas plus." Please, God. No more.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#275
04-26-2010, 10:28 AM
Standing on the Terpsichore's Forecastle by the rail, Lieutenant Thomas Carson felt the deck shake beneath his feet as the
cannons spit fire and shot. The smell of powder, in the form of smoke, rolled up from the side of the ship.
At that particular moment, fixated on the French ship with squinting eyes, Thomas hadn't noticed any of the damage to the
Terpsichore. Even as some pieces of shattered wood fell about him, he barely noticed. As soon as the cannon fire became
imminent, Thomas had moved from the Quarterdeck to the Forecastle. In the process he had quickly checked on the Marine
Sections stationed on-deck, and checked the Marines manning the swivel guns now set-up on the deck.
A nearby Marine manning a swivel gun pointed it at the French Man-O-War and fired. A blast of smoke instantly blew back at
Thomas's face, who had also neglected to avert his eyes away from the blast. The Marine Officer turned his head away and
coughed as the smell from the powder smoke filled his nostrils. The flash still flared in his eyes.
"Keep firing," Thomas said to the Marine with a cough. "Aim for any heads you see above her deck."
Cupping his hands around his mouth, Thomas shouted towards the mast with all his might, "Sharpshooters! Mark her
Quarterdeck! Keep up your fire!"
Thomas was ordering his Marines aloft to focus their musket fire on the French vessel's Quarterdeck. That was one place where
sowing some chaos and a few musket ball wounds seemed like the best-use of his musket armed Marines for now. Thomas
didn't hear an acknowledgment, but he heard the popping of musket fire in the smoke covered distance around him, which
sounded almost minuscule against the loud jarring explosions of the cannons.
The Marine Officer's fear was absent at the moment. The excitement of the battle, the focus on causing casualties, had deterred
him from seeing their own dead and damaged. The adrenaline had overcome everything else, as had his single-minded
purpose. Thomas still carried a loaded musket in his arms, and as he stood by the rail, he looked for an opportune target across
that short expanse of glassy water.
Thomas's attention was still on the French vessel and the Marine next to him with the swivel gun, he was still virtually unaware of
what else was happening on deck.
The deck pitched and yawed, and O'Mally was barely keeping his footing. The sound of the splintering wood and the lurching of
the ship made him look to see what happened. To his horror O'Mally saw the main top-gallant mast had hit the deck, covering a
good amount of the cannons and- his blood froze in his veins, the quarterdeck was hit and he heard the words which caused icy
fingers to run up his spine.
"The Captain and First Lieutenant are down, I think they are dead!"
O'Mally grabbed hold of Lt. Carson's shoulder, "Thomas, you're with me, they just said The Captain and Aubrey are down and
possibly dead." he said hoarsely.He momentarily pulled Thomas towards the quarterdeck, then released his arm, scrambling
over the ruins of the mast towards the quarter deck. Once there he looked about, trying to spot the Captain, or Aubrey. He spied
what looked to be Aubrey's hat, crushed by debris from the destroyed mast. O'Mally frowned, this didn't seem to speak of good
news where Aubrey was concerned.

Thomas felt a tug at his shoulder and heard O'Mally's voice. The news made the Marine Officer's eyes widen into saucers in
surprise at the news. For the first time he turned and saw the deck, seeing the fallen section of mast laying there with it's broken
ropes and chunks of wood laying about the deck. Thomas had somehow not heard or seen the entire event, and the sight made
him momentarily freeze in shock at the sight of so much destruction just appearing before his eyes.
"Right behind you," He said aloud to O'Mally.
Collecting his senses, he moved forward, quickly catching up at the double with O'Mally, who was headed for the Quarterdeck.
As they moved aft, they passed a collection of Marines who were stationed under the main mast and taking cover behind
whatever was available. From their position they were ready to repel boarders but not able to do much else.
"Two more men aloft! The rest of you stand fast!" Thomas yelled at them and pointed his own musket at the platforms up in the
ship's tops where a few of Marines were firing their muskets at the french warship as fast as they could load them.
The Marines shouted back at Thomas and obeyed.
Thomas did his best to step over the ruins of the mast quickly without falling. But there was a lot of debris and fallen canvas
concealed some of it. The heel of his right foot touched a rope line and it rolled beneath his shoe. Thomas lost his balance and
fell onto his rear and right arm. Muttering under his breath, Thomas ignored his sore rump as he grabbed his hat off the deck
where it was rolling in a slow circle and followed O'Mally up onto the Quarterdeck.
"Captain!" Thomas shouted at the Quarterdeck as he climbed up onto it.
He then shouted at O'Mally, "Do you see them?"
O'Mally's eyes misted slightly, seeing the damage done to the Terpsichore, he quickly rubbed his eyes to clear them, then looked
about.The thick mast covered half of the quarterdeck, and the first thing he saw was the hand of the young boy who was to
deliver messages for the Captain. Shaking his head, there wasn't anything he could do about it. He turned and found the Captain
tangled up in ropes and he was immediately at his side. "I found the Captain!" He yelled to Thomas, checking to see if Ruben
was still breathing. "He's out, but still breathing!"
He cast his eyes about to see if he could spot Aubrey, but didn't see any sign of the First Lieutenant."I don't see Lt. Rutherford"
he said to Thomas.
A thought crossed Patrick's mind could he have fallen overboard when the mast hit the deck? O'Mally hoped that hadn't
happened. He motioned for two sailors to get the Captain downstairs to where the surgeon was. Patrick looked once more about
the quarterdeck. The mast was on oneside, the captain was on the other... Last he saw was Aubrey standing just on the left of
the captain.
Nearby was part of the sail, with ropes and several bits and pieces of debris on it and a scant two feet from the sail and debris
was the hat that Aubrey was wearing earlier.
Thomas was immediately relieved to see the Captain. O'Mally had that situation in hand, so he turned to look for Aubrey. The
newly wed Lieutenant was nowhere to be seen.
Confusion and horror mixed in Thomas's mind. Where was Aubrey? He couldn't have just disappeared.
Something caught Thomas's eye on the deck, a naval officer's hat, somewhat crushed. Not a short distance away was a large
section of sail and some wooden remnants of the mast.
Thomas's eyes narrowed, he set the musket down on the Quarterdeck and moved forward to the sail. With both hands he began
to pull it up and away. A large, splintered piece of wood was pinning it down. Thomas grabbed the wood chunk and tossed it
aside. He then grabbed the sail again and began to lift.
Beneath the sail, as he pulled it back, he thought he saw a man laying on the Quarterdeck beneath the sail. Thomas eyed a
shoe and a pant leg. With his hands on the massive sail, holding it as high as he could, it was hard to tell.
"You there!" Thomas shouted at the figure lying beneath the sail. "Aubrey is that you?"?
There wasn't an answer, nor was there any movement. Several of the men who had participated in putting out the fire, stopped
by Thomas. "Sir need any assistance?" Was the question asked. One of them noticed the shoe and pant leg of someone there.
Without another word, they helped Thomas pull the sail back revealing the unconcious form of Aubrey. His coat and uniform
were torn, a gash on his left brow and a cut on his right cheek were the injuries that would be spotted right off . Scratches from
the splinters added to the bloody mess his face was in.

"Aubrey!" Thomas shouted. Throwing the side of a canvas sheet away from his body, Thomas darted in and came down on his
right knee.
Kneeling by Aubrey, Thomas looked for signs of life. He was no physician but he knew a dead man from a live one. Thomas
watched Aubrey's chest and mouth for a moment and saw his chest rise and fall.
"He's got breath left in him yet," Thomas muttered.
The Marine Officer wasn't sure of the full extent of his injuries. What just looked like a cut or two could be a significant bump on
the head. Aubrey could have broken bones. Something rendered him unconscious, of that there was no doubt.
Thomas looked up at one of the men who helped uncover the unconscious Lieutenant.
"You sailor," Thomas said. "Help me carry Mr. Rutherford below."
Thomas looked across the Quarterdeck at O'Mally and shouted, "I've found Mr. Rutherford, he's unconscious but alive. I'm taking
him below."
O'Mally nodded towards Thomas, then looked around the deck seeing that it was starting to come to order under the hesitant
Sam. Sam who had the support of the Sailing Master, Erasmus Bunts. Being relieved that Aubrey was still alive Patrick stepped
up to Sam, "Aye lad I will take over now. Well done Sam, well done. I'm now taking command of the ship."
Turning to Thomas he said, "Lieutenant Carson, make certain that Lieutenant Rutherford is taken down below by the men
there."Pointing to those that had helped Thomas. "and get your men ready we're not out of this yet!"
Noticing that another person was fished out of the sea, O'Mally nodded towards the young man who looked rather wet.
"And I don't know who that young man is but he needs to be checked out as well."
"Ay," Lieutenant Thomas Carson replied.
The Marine Officer began to push the debris off Mr. Rutherford and then said to a sailor and Marine standing nearby, "You two
men, take Mr. Rutherford below to the doctor then get back to your posts."
Thomas wanted to take Aubrey below himself, but he saw that he was needed on-deck.
"The rest of you, back to your stations!" Thomas shouted as he stood back up.
The Quarterdeck was now a busy place again, as the officers restored the chain of command prosecuted their
strategy...whatever it was. Thomas hadn't had the opportunity to consult with the naval officers or the Sailing Master to see what
the plan was, and they looked quite occupied at the moment.
So Thomas focused his energy on the Marines. A quick glance across the deck and he spotted the red uniforms. Some where by
the swivel guns, others were bringing shot and powder to those guns, while a small contingent of Marines stood by on-deck for a
potential boarding action. Those in the tops were firing muskets at the French Man-O-War as fast as they could reload their
muskets.
The thought of muskets reminded Thomas of something he had left behind. Thomas turned and saw the loaded musket lying on
the Quarterdeck where he had left it. The Marine Officer picked it up and checked the frizzen, it was still closed, meaning the
charge powder inside was probably still dry. Leaving a loaded musket lying about wasn't wise aboard a ship, and it was an ill-use
for the deadly weapon in it's primed state.
Walking over to the rail, Thomas brought the butt of the musket into his shoulder and took aim at the French Man-O-War.
Thomas could see the vessel's Forecastle and Quarterdeck, but a thick cloud of cannon smoke hung like a veil between them.
Thomas spread his feet to steady himself on the rolling deck, and raised the weapon up to his cheek. Staring down the length of
the barrel, he aimed at the French warship's Quarterdeck and pulled the trigger.
The musket fired, a puff of white smoke appeared from the frizzen and the muzzle as the weapon kicked into his shoulder. It was
surprisingly quiet, against the roar of the cannons.
Thomas looked out across the water, but couldn't see if he had hit anything.
Just that quickly, Thomas's first shot fired in anger at the French had been discharged. For the first time since he joined His
Majesty's Marines, Thomas felt like he was really in this war.

Laying the musket down against the rail, Thomas shouted forward, "All Marines on-deck, secure the swivel guns and assist the
fire party!"
Out of the corner of his eye, Thomas saw the individual that had been fished from the sea. Drenched in seawater he stood on
the Quarterdeck.
"Get that man below," Thomas said to a nearby Marine who had been manning a swivel gun just seconds before.
"He's not one of ours, give him dry clothes and clap him in irons, we're sort it later," Thomas added almost nonchalantly.
Thomas pulled a pistol out of his belt and handed it to the Marine.
The Marine, a young Private, took the pistol, stepped forward and said, "Come along you, you heard the Lieutenant!"
Francois found that he suddenly had a red-uniformed Royal Navy Marine waving a pistol at him and gesturing him to get off the
Quarterdeck and go below.

JP by
Lieutenant Patrick O'Mally
and
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#276
04-26-2010, 07:07 PM
Francois thrashed about the chilling water in a desperate effort to stay afloat but even though he could swim, the cold would be
killing him soon enough. In addition to freezing, he was also quite disoriented but decided to make a mad effort at swimming
straight for the closest hull in the water. He assumed it was Le Trajan.
He assumed quite wrong!
"Au secours!" he cried out but with his mouth partially swallowing water and the thunderous sounds of the battle raging above
him, it was unlikely anyone heard him. The ship would pass him quite rapidly too, he believed he was quite doomed.
Then a line was flung out from the main deck, luckily splashing not far from where he was. In a last burst of renewed energy he
swam for it and grabbed the rope with both hands. There was shouting above but he could not make out any words. Eyes
closed, teeth chattering, he merely clung to that lifeline for all he was worth.
He realized then they were hauling him up as he felt himself emerge from the cold sea and then bump hard against the wood of
the massive hull. Nothing could make him let go of that rope though til he was finally up on the top railing.
"Easy lad! We got you!" grunted one seaman as two sailors manhandled the young man up and over onto the deck.
For just an instant Francois did not even realize these weren't French sailors, they hadn't been speaking French at all. He
coughed up some water as he lay there then spoke up to them, "Merci."
"Bloody hell! It's a frog! We fished up a bleedin' frog!" one sailor declared.
"Merde..." Francois was as fully aware of the situation now as his rescuers, but his dismay at who rescued him was at least
tempered by the fact he was not going to drown.
"I say we throw the bugger back!" snarled one of the men.
Alright, maybe not drown. He held up one hand, "Please...no! I speak English quite well."
That seemed to surprise both of the men. And that hesitancy made the difference as what appeared to be an officer came up to
them, even as the battle continued to rage on across the length of the ship.

"And I don't know who that young man is but he needs to be checked out as well."
"Ay," a young lieutenant replied.
"Thank you," Francois had clambered to his feet by then, shivering but very aware his life still hung in balance.
"He's a froggie, sir!" one sailor felt compelled to point out.
"Get that man below," Thomas said to a nearby Marine who had been manning a swivel gun just seconds before.
"Sir, he's a Frenchman!" the sailor duly pointed out again, determined to let everyone know.
"He's not one of ours, give him dry clothes and clap him in irons, we're sort it later," Thomas added almost nonchalantly.
Thomas pulled a pistol out of his belt and handed it to the Marine.
The Marine, a young Private, took the pistol, stepped forward and said, "Come along you, you heard the Lieutenant!"
Francois found that he suddenly had a red-uniformed Royal Navy Marine waving a pistol at him and gesturing him to get off the
Quarterdeck and go below.
Francois was completely unarmed besides being utterly soaked and barefoot but he raised both his hands into the air to show he
was not going to offer even the slightest resistance.
"Yes, yes I did. Luckily I speak English, private," Francois was rather amused, even at this incongrous moment, that they all
seemingly expected him to and thus knew what had been ordered of him.
"Just don't shoot, I will not try anything," he assured the marine as they both now headed for the closest stairwell down below the
decks.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#277
04-27-2010, 11:05 AM
The Terpsichore was now heading East North East, in the opposite direction she had been, O'Mally had a grim expression on his
face. The cannons on the starboard side as well as the cannonades on the quarterdeck were still covered by the sail and debris.
The ship was limping along and the French ships disappeared from view, enveloped by the thick blanket of fog and smoke and
the curtain of night.
He motioned Bunts over to check the charts under the flickering light of the lamp. Tracing a possible course with his calloused
finger, heading towards France turning around then back out towards the direction the Terpsichore needed to go, almost hugging
the shore of France.
He looked to Bunts, "I'm thinking the Captain would be a wantin' to go this way, 'pears ta me it would be somethin' he'd do."
O'Mally said, his voice a bit hoarse from his emotions, "And it may well be the way we can save the Terpsichore. Lets go with
that course."
Last edited by Linette Geraud; 04-27-2010, 12:25 PM.
Quote Flag
Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#278
04-27-2010, 12:19 PM
[On Deck]
Erasmus Bunts nodded, it appeared to him to be the best way too, right now they were sailing right for a lee shore and would be
em-bayed within an hour.

"Now Sir?" He looked at O'Mally for the nod.
He stepped up to the break of the Quarterdeck and with his speaking trumpet he called, "Hands about ship!"
He waited the minutes to let the men get to their stations and be ready, unlike wearing ship, tacking took more work, more men,
and more wear on the sails and rigging, it also could end badly if mishandled, but on the other side, you lost less lee way, it was
faster, and when you were beating to windward you didn't lose as much distance.
"Ready-O!" The Sailing Master called out, "Helm's a-lee, off tacks and sheets, Mainsail Haul..." He went through the whole run
turning the ship in her own length, the bow coming right up into the wind so the ship was facing the wind, this was the dangerous
part since if she didn't have enough speed for the rudder to grip and push her a little further she would be stuck and have to fall
of and start all over, they passed that point of no return and the ship swung faster around till it steadied on her new tack, so that
she was now running West South West, back on their old course and their own wake could be seen on the Starboard side of the
ship of where they had just been.
Once around he called to the helm, "luff and touch her," then to the sail trimmers, "Haul the bowlines."
"One-two-three-belay-O, bowlines Hauled Sir."
"Course is West South West and a half West Sir."
"Very Good." Erasmus Bunts said, then "resume clearing the wreckage, salvage as much canvas, rope and spars as you can."
"Aye Sir."
Erasmus stepped over to O'Mally, "Course is West South West and a half West Sir, I have the people clearing the wreckage."
<tag>
[In the cockpit]
Marie sat on the deck and slumped against the bulkhead next to the lifeless body of Doctor Richardson. As she closed her eyes,
she rested her forearms on her knees and her bloodstained hands began to tremble.
As the boys left the surgeon's cockpit, she whispered, "S'il vous plaît, Dieu. Pas plus." Please, God. No more.
Three more bodies came down, two carried and one walking, as the men set down the first one on the locker the gold lace and
blue broadcloth coat made it as apparent as the face did, this was the Captain, and the other one, set down close by was the
First Lieutenant. The walking one didn't seem to be hurt but as cold and wet as Marie had been when she first came aboard, he
was also guarded by a Marine with a pistol.
<tag>
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#279
04-27-2010, 09:37 PM
Erasmus stepped over to O'Mally, "Course is West South West and a half West Sir, I have the people clearing the wreckage."
O'Mally nodded "Very good," then thought of something, with them sailing in the fog and not wanting to run aground on the
French shore he said quietly to Bunts, "Get the lead line out and measure for the bottom, we're going to have to keep watch over
the bottom as we sail on."
They were still in the channel and the waters could be rather tricky, Patrick didn't want to lose the Terpsichore to the French one
way or other. With an experienced Sailing master, he felt that Bunts would know of the bottom on the French side.
"Calling Mister Foxall to the quarterdeck!" O'Mally called out, "Post haste!"
And the cry went out for Andrew.
<tag>
Quote Flag
Firefly
Member

Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#280
04-30-2010, 01:53 PM
In the surgeon's cockpit
In spite of her prayers, Marie had only a few moments' solace and then could hear the clunk, clunk of boots on the steps leading
into the surgeon's cockpit. The footfalls were heavy and slow; they were probably carrying someone.
Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, she lifted herself to her feet. The dull concussions of the guns above had stopped for
the moment. That, at least, seemed a hopeful sign, though she refused to think about how many more injured (or dead) there
may be waiting for treatment. She hoped that the two sailors she'd sent up to the Captain had managed to get word to him that
doctor Richardson was dead and that he needed to assign a new surgeon down here. Someone who knew what he was doing.
As the first of the wounded came down into view, her heart sank: It was the Captain.
The men set him down on the bloodstained locker, and she approached. He was still breathing, though he seemed to be
unconscious, and his arm was bent in an extremely unnatural manner, quite obviously broken.
She looked to the men who'd brought him down as another pair of sailors descended the steps carrying Lieutenant Rutherford.
Closely behind, another boy followed. He seemed healthy but was soaked from head to foot in water and was curiously
accompanied by a marine, who seemed to be guarding him.
Looking at the men who'd carried the Captain and First Lieutenant down, Marie asked, "Who is in charge here? Is one of you the
replacement surgeon?"
They looked at each other blankly and shook their heads, "N-nah, miss," one of them offered, "We wuz just bringin' the captain
and lieutenant down. Where's the bleedin' surgeon?"
It was clear that no relief would be coming, at least not any time soon. Marie looked around at the gathered sailors. As incredible
as it seemed, of all the people standing in the room, she was probably the most qualified to help these men. She decided that it
was no time to be timid.
Shaking her head with frustration, she turned her attention to the Captain. "The surgeon's dead," she said as she started to
unbutton the Captain's coat. "Get that boy out of his wet clothes and into something warm and dry. There are spare clothes over
in that cupboard. Set the lieutenant down over there and help me strap down the Captain. We must work quickly. With luck, he
will still be unconscious when we straighten his arm and put a splint on it."
The sailors paused and looked at one another, not sure what to do. They had heard a rumor that there was a woman on board,
which was strange enough, but to encounter her here in the surgeon's cockpit? And ordering them around? It was all a bit much
to process.
"Well?" she snapped impatiently, as she gently slid the coat out from under the Captain and set it aside, "Are you going to help
your Captain here or not?"
"Y-yes, miss," the younger of the two said as he moved to begin strapping him down.
"Good. You there, find two bits of wood -- stiff, but not too large and heavy. Perhaps a foot long each. And get some of the linen
bandages. Have them ready. We're going to pull his arm straight and you'll need to move quickly to tie it in place."
In a few minutes' time, they had managed to get everything prepared. As a precaution against the Captain waking, Marie slipped
the leather gag into his mouth. It would not do to have him wake up and bite off his tongue.
She positioned herself alongside the Captain and had one of the sailors hold the makeshift splint at the ready.
"Alright," she said, wiping sweat from her brow. "I'm going to pull on this arm, and when it looks good and straight, you clap those
boards onto it and tie the linen around. His muscles may spasm, and we don't want to have to do this more than once."
Marie tried to sound more confident than she was. She knew that she'd have very little opportunity, if any, to prove herself to
these men and she didn't intend to waste it.
But the truth was that she had very little idea what would happen when she pulled on the Captain's arm. Her only experience
with a broken bone had been watching a doctor set one of her brother's arms when she was a child. She remembered watching
with a kind of morbid fascination, and was trying to recall as many details as she could.

"Ready?" she asked, her eyes flashing to the sailors. They nodded, and she pulled the Captain's arm. She winced as she could
feel the scraping of bone on bone through his skin, but then, suddenly, it seemed to fall into alignment.
Ruben's body gave an involuntary jerk and moan to the pain but he had been secured and didn't get away from them. He didn't
come to either but seemed just as out cold as before.
"Now!" she yelled, "Bind it in place, quickly!"
The sailor pressed the linen-lined boards around the Captain's arm and tied the makeshift splint together. When he finished he
shot a somewhat shocked, yellow-toothed grin at Marie. It had gone more smoothly than any of them had expected and the relief
was palpable.
Sensing that she had some momentum in the situation, Marie didn't stop. "Look over the Lieutenant. See if there's any major
bleeding that needs to be addressed immediately."
While they checked Aubrey over, Marie dressed some of the Captain's less severe wounds; she wrapped bandages around his
head and ribcage -- which was pretty seriously bruised on one side. She had no idea if the bandages would do any actual good,
but there wasn't much else she could do.
When the Captain had been attended to, she had the sailors move him from the locker down to a makeshift cot.
Soon, Lieutenant Rutherford was on the locker and Marie gently tugged his shirt off and examined him. He, too, had severely
bruised ribs as well as numerous splinters and a pair of cuts on his cheek and brow.
Marie drew a deep breath and set to work.
Andrew was proud of his men. They had performed well. A bit slower than he would have like perhaps, but certainly a good start.
Foxall approached one of his gun chiefs and patted him on the back.
"The men did well, Matthew."
"Aye, they did sir. That they did," replied the veteran sailor.
"If only our starboard guns hadn't been masked by the fallen sails, we could have hit the Frogs when we came about," stated the
3rd Lieutenant.
"Well sir, you can't win them all. At least we're here to strike another day. That's good enough for me."
"Well said, Mr. Wells."
"Calling Mister Foxall to the quarterdeck!" O'Mally called out, "Post haste!"
And the cry went out for Andrew.
The call for Foxall rang through the ship. It really was the most effective way to summon someone on the Terpsichore.
"Lt. Foxall to the Quarterdeck!"
"Well, that's me. Mr. Rawlins, Mr. Harris to me if you please."
"Sir," the two midshipmen chorused as they approached Andrew.
"First, well done. Make sure your lads know they've done well too. Second, we need to get prepared for the possibility for further
action. Mr. Rawlins, you have the gundeck. Your division will reload all the cannon and make sure we are ready for action down
here. Mr. Harris, your division is to go topside and aide in getting that bloody sail removed from covering our gun ports.
Understood?"
Both junior officers nodded yes.
"Good men, now I'm off."
Andrew made his way topside. The deck was a mess, but he had seen worse before. The French were clearly caught by
surprise for although the Terpsichore had lost its mizzenmast, there was little other damage. Making his way to the Quarterdeck,
Andrew scanned it for the Captain or Aubrey. Seeing only Lt. O'Malley, Andrew gave a concerned look towards the 2nd
Lieutenant.
"Lt. Foxall, reporting as ordered. Thomas, were's the Captain?"

OFF:
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#282
04-30-2010, 05:58 PM
O'Mally looked at Andrew when he arrived, "The Captain, as well as Mister Rutherford, were injured and taken below to see to
their wounds, both are unconcious."
Just then two boys arrived from below deck, seeing O'Mally they went up to him.
"S-sir, we've got a message from the surgeon's cockpit, Doctor Richardson is dead." They stammered out.
"By the-" O'Mally looked at the two boys,"If he is dead, who is taking care of the wounded?"
"Its the woman who was fished out of the sea, Marie." was the answer.
Patrick took off his hat and ran his hand over his red hair, taking a moment to reflect on the state of things. Looking at the two
young men he said, "Go find Mister Burke, inform him about the captain and find the cooks, we need to get something to eat for
everyone. And have Mister Dunlahm get some of the other midshipmen to help out."
The boys nodded and went on their errand.
Looking back at Andrew, O'Mally said to him, "We're still moving forward, headed back in the direction we need to go. The
French chewed up the ship abit." sighing abit. "I don't know how long the Captain will be unconcious, but the only thing we can
do is keep on course, and hope the French don't realize what we're doing."
"Give me the readin' of the lead line!" Patrick called out to the one who cast the line out.
"Mister Bunts, where do you think we'll be at, when first morning-light comes?" O'Mally asked the sail-master.
As he waited for Bunts answer O'Mally said quietly to Andrew, "I never thought I'd be taking temporary command of the ship, like
this. Its going to be quite a tale to tell my father." he gave a little bit of a chuckle, and shaking his head.
"How did your men do? Lieutenant Carson's men seemed to have been doing fine, when everything hit all at once." A thought
occurred to him. " We need a count as to the wounded and dead."
Looking at Lieutenant Carson, O'Mally said, "Mister Carson, find this out for me and check on the Captain and First Lieutenant
and get that newest recruit to help out Marie in the cockpit, Forget putting the lad in irons we need all the hands we can muster."
To Andrew he quietly said, " I do hope the captain wakes up near the mornin's light or sooner otherwise its going to be you, me
'n' Carson to keep things together. And best to get the captain's quarters ready for him."
Quote Flag
Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#283
05-01-2010, 11:01 AM
Lieutenant Thomas Carson had been standing on the Quarterdeck. He had gotten his hands in a glass and was peering through
the fog, trying to see the French vessels.
Relief began to fill his mind, it seemed like the ship was running and might make it clear. Thomas was no coward, but he knew
that the odds had been stacked against them. He preferred to have a fighting chance to win. Lacking that, running away suited
him fine.
Thomas had listened to the chatter on the Quarterdeck, the officers and Sailing Master seemed to be getting a handle on things.
The confusion on the Quarterdeck after the Captain and Aubrey were injured had faded away as though a layer of dark cloud
had lifted off the Quarterdeck, the change in atmosphere was palpable.

Looking at Lieutenant Carson, O'Mally said, "Mister Carson, find this out for me and check on the Captain and First Lieutenant
and get that newest recruit to help out Marie in the cockpit, Forget putting the lad in irons we need all the hands we can muster."
"Ay," Thomas said lowering the glass and tipping his hat.
Turning, Thomas looked down at the deck, "Colour Sergeant Bourne!"
The older enlisted man, who had been talking to one of the Sergeants, spun on his heels and said, "Sir?"
"Have the frenchman that was fished from the sea released into the custody of the cockpit to assist the wounded, the woman,
Marie, has taken charge of things there in the late doctor's stead," Thomas yelled down from the Quarterdeck.
Thomas's eyes narrowed as he saw something, a long tear along the Colour Sergeant's right arm. He thought he saw blood.
"Bourne, are you injured?" Thomas asked.
"It's a cut sir, nothing more," The bushy side-burned man replied. To his credit, there was not an ounce of pain in his voice.
"I'll take charge of the deck Bourne, see to the frenchman and get that arm looked at," Thomas ordered.
"Yes sir," Bourne replied.
Thomas's eyes shifted upward, "Sharpshooters to the deck!"
Another voice repeated, "Sharpshooters to the deck!"
The marines in the masts began to collect their things and climb down from the tops.
"Marines on-deck, first section remain at Quarters, second section assist the crew in clearing the deck of debris," Thomas
ordered.
The Sergeants shouted their affirmatives and saluted.
************************************************** ************************************************
Below decks, a bush-side burned Marine of perhaps 30 years of age appeared. He walked straight to the private holding a pistol
on Francois.
"We're releasing him lad," Bourne said. "Give me the pistol, now you get back to your mates."
"Yes sir," the private replied as he handed over the pistol and ran off.
The older man tucked the pistol into his belt as he walked up to Francois, and removed the shackles on his hands.
"Come with me," he said.
The Marine led Francois back into the room where the wounded were. He had been there just moments earlier before the
Private pulled him out to separate him from the others.
The Marine turned and in a surprisingly father-like voice, said, "Now lad, you help this woman with the wounded, you stay with
her. I'll check on you later, don't cause trouble, we've had enough today and haven't the patience for an ounce more."
He said, "Lad, I'm afraid I am your first patient."
The Marine turned his right arm upward at the elbow, revealing a long cut, likely a shrapnel graze. The forearm was bleeding
onto and beneath the sleeve. The cut didn't appear too deep, but the bleeding was a problem. Francois hadn't noticed the
wound, the Marine hadn't displayed a banker's ounce of pain.
"See to this cut lad, be quick about it, I have duties to see to," The Marine said as he looked for a place to sit down.
************************************************** ********************************************
Shortly after Colour Sergeant Bourne settled onto a seat to be treated by Francois, another Marine arrived and walked into the
cockpit.
Removing his hat, Lieutenant Thomas Carson walked past a wounded men. His eyes crossed onto the form of Doctor
Richardson and a grim impression passed through Thomas's eyes, an expression visible to all.
Holding his hat in his hands, Thomas walked over to Marie. He tried to ignore her blood-spattered clothing.

"Madam," he said in a grim tone. "We need a count, how many dead, how many wounded?"
Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#284
05-01-2010, 12:17 PM
Down into the interior of the ship Francois padded, dripping as he did so, and shivering, the young marine with the pistol
following right behind him. They wound up in the surgeon's room where a young woman - yes woman!!- labored on the injured.
What was a woman doing on a military ship? And why were they taking a prisoner to this particular location? Francois did not
understand these Anglais.
More wounded were being carried on in. Francois listened to the conversations, centering on the ship's surgeon. There seemed
to be some confusion as to his whereabouts? Glancing toward one wounded in particular that man was in a captain's uniform!
So the French fire had hit the enemy captain? That was a good thing. It was war after all.
"The surgeon's dead," the woman said as she started to unbutton the Captain's coat. "Get that boy out of his wet clothes and
into something warm and dry. There are spare clothes over in that cupboard. Set the lieutenant down over there and help me
strap down the Captain. We must work quickly. With luck, he will still be unconscious when we straighten his arm and put a splint
on it."
That explained some things! Their surgeon was dead, this woman was somehow taking his place. Though it still didn't explain
why she was even here in the first place? However his thoughts were interrupted by the young marine with the pistol aimed at
his back, "You! Let's get some different clothes on you. Over there."
The pair moved past the various wounded, Francois' bare feet now feeling the sticky blood on the deck. He couldn't help but
wonder how his own crew was faring, how many wounded...and dead there were back on the Le Trajan. They stopped at a plain
wooden cupboard.
"Open it and grab anything that fits....or doesn't fit. Just change," the marine commanded.
"Here?" Francois had been naked before below decks but that was with only males about not a female! "In the presence of a
lady?"
"She's busy! Now hurry up!" the marine had no sympathy for his complaint.
Francois glared but did not snap back with a reply, he was a prisoner and his situation depended on the tender mercies of these
English. First, he stripped off his soaked cotton shirt which had stuck to his lean frame. His torso was thin but underneath his
pale skin one could easily see the workings of his musculature, he did not look like a weakling.
Next he made a point of turning so that - if the woman did indeed cast a curious glance his way, she would only see his buttocks
and not his manhood. He pulled down the sodden breeches to his ankles and kicked out of them then discarded the
undergarment as quickly as he could. He was now naked as a newborn and eager to be reclothed.
He peered into the cupboard, it wasn't easy to see clearly in the poor light of the hold but he pulled out one pair of breeches. No,
too big. His second try found something better, with a smaller waist. Hurriedly he pulled that on. Next he rummaged thru the
loose white cotton shirts common to so many sailors regardless of which navy. Finding a suitable one, he slipped it over his wet
head and pushed his arms into the sleeves then pulled it down. There were no shoes in the cupboard, no matter for now. He felt
better already being in dry clothing.
As he turned around again, the young marine had been busy too. He now held a set of iron manacles out to Francois, "Snap
these on. No trouble now."
Francois obeyed without argument and now he stood there feeling very much like one of those sad condemned royalists
shackled on their way to their final doomed appointment with the guillotine. His situation didn't last long though.
An older burly looking Marine NCO now approached, a man Francois definitely would not ever want to face in combat. He just
had that look about him.
"We're releasing him lad," Bourne said. "Give me the pistol, now you get back to your mates."
Francois raised one eyebrow, releasing him? Why?

"Yes sir," the private replied as he handed over the pistol and ran off.
The older man tucked the pistol into his belt as he walked up to Francois, and removed the shackles on his hands.
"Thank you," Francois nodded, also showing the fellow he knew English.
"Come with me," the Englishman declared.
"Yes," was all the reply needed.
The Marine turned and in a surprisingly father-like voice, said, "Now lad, you help this woman with the wounded, you stay with
her. I'll check on you later, don't cause trouble, we've had enough today and haven't the patience for an ounce more."
"Me? Help her? But I know nothing of surgery or medical matters," Francois was stunned.
He said, "Lad, I'm afraid I am your first patient."
"You?"
The Marine turned his right arm upward at the elbow, revealing a long cut, likely a shrapnel graze. The forearm was bleeding
onto and beneath the sleeve. The cut didn't appear too deep, but the bleeding was a problem. Francois hadn't noticed the
wound, the Marine hadn't displayed a banker's ounce of pain.
"Oh," Francois winced.
"See to this cut lad, be quick about it, I have duties to see to," The Marine said as he looked for a place to sit down.
"I suppose I could bandage it?" Francois weakly offered, completely in over his head now.
"Ummm, take off your coat and roll up your shirt sleeve then...I guess. I do not know where they keep bandaging?" the youthful
Frenchman looked about.
Quote Flag
Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#285
05-01-2010, 02:08 PM
"Give me the readin' of the lead line!" Patrick called out to the one who cast the line out.
"No bottom with this line." was called back, "passing the deep sea lead."
"Mister Bunts, where do you think we'll be at, when first morning-light comes?" O'Mally asked the sail-master.
"Let me check the charts." Erasmus Bunts walked off to what was left of his Day Cabin and Chart-room.
...
To Andrew he quietly said, " I do hope the captain wakes up near the mornin's light or sooner otherwise its going to be you, me
'n' Carson to keep things together. And best to get the captain's quarters ready for him."
"Thirty-two fathoms and graval Sir." Was answered once the deep sea line had been cast.
Erasmus came back. "We should be almost in the middle between Torbay and Cape de la Hogue Sir. About one hundred miles
from the mouth of the channel, and about sixty to Plymouth, with a fair wind if it don't veer much." He then gave his forecast,
"wind is picking up and the fog will be gone before then. Be a clear ta'gallant breaze by morning, it's also going to come around a
bit more out of the East, maybe even a true East."
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Dorella Allerod
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 3536
#286
05-02-2010, 11:56 AM

Under the Quarterdeck where the Captain's Cabin would be if it had not been stripped to the walls and bare deck the boy went.
He found Burke sitting on a powder bucket. "Captains been hurt, Lieutenant O'Mally says for you to get 'ta cabin ready for him to
be moved into."
Burke gave a nod to the boy. He was feeling numb and felt like he was watching a dream. He got up and grabbed his bucket and
stood there in thought, 'where to begain' his thoughts were confused.
The Midshipman of that division called out, "Guns twenty-seven through thirty-two, house your guns. Someone get the
bulkheads back up."
The seaman of the last six guns of the ship closed the ports and secured their guns, rammers, handspikes, wads, buckets and
other gear. As one walked by he took the powder bucket from Burke. Soon they started to bring in the walls that seperated the
Captain's Cabin from the gun deck and even started bringing in the furniture and painted canvas floor cover.
Burke watched as the men put everything back in order, he guessed he was watching and seeing to it that everything was back
in place. They all did a nice job.
He went to the Captain's sleeping Cabin. He made the bed and fluffed the pillow.
Burke looked around and everything was just as had been. He motioned to one of the ship's boys, and said, "Tell Lieutenant
O'Mally that the Captain's Cabin is ready for him."
Burke was going to make sure he was there when the Captain arrived, he didn't even know how bad the Captain was hurt, he
was going to nurse him back to health.
Quote Flag
Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#287
05-02-2010, 03:45 PM
Originally posted by JosephCade View Post
"See to this cut lad, be quick about it, I have duties to see to," The Marine said as he looked for a place to sit down.
"I suppose I could bandage it?" Francois weakly offered, completely in over his head now.
"Ummm, take off your coat and roll up your shirt sleeve then...I guess. I do not know where they keep bandaging?" the youthful
Frenchman looked about.
"Quickly lad," Colour Sergeant Bourne added in a slightly aggregated voice. "Get what you need from the lady, Marie is her
name, and get to it."
The Marine had removed his jacket and was now removing his shirt as well, revealing a slicing cut across the outside of the
forearm. A small wooden fragment protruded from the wound, a nasty splinter.
The Marine had reached for some water, he took a gulp, then poured some of it down his arm, washing away some of the blood.
The sick bay was full of wounded, blood smeared wood and a few bodies. Supplies of various sorts were scattered about
everywhere. It was borderline chaos as the woman worked on the worst of the wounded.
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#288
05-02-2010, 04:35 PM
"Quickly lad," Colour Sergeant Bourne added in a slightly aggregated voice. "Get what you need from the lady, Marie is her
name, and get to it."
"Marie....yes....of course," Francois nodded compliance then turned from the injured marine to approach the young woman.

Poor thing, she looked very overwhelmed by the bloody task fate had set her to, as she labored over a bloodied sailor. The
woman's dress was splattered with the dark red of blood.
"Excuse me...ummm, Marie, but I do not know where the bandaging is kept," he spoke up loud enough to be heard amongst the
chaos.
His English was certainly proper if delivered in a very French accent. She would know.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#289
05-03-2010, 04:08 PM
Marie finished cleaning Lieutenant Rutherford's wounds. It had taken her some time to pick out all of the wood splinters in his
side -- it would be a painful rash for a few days, but she thought it would heal well enough as long as he avoided infection. His
forehead cut hadn't been too bad, though the cheek was split quite deeply and had required two stitches.
As she dabbed the rum-soaked cloth on his face, she admired her handiwork. It really didn't look too bad, and somehow,
focusing on the little wounds made it easier to forget some of the more horrific injuries she'd witnessed in the last hour.
As she wiped her bloody hands on the borrowed shirt she wore, she realized it would absorb no more; she was covered in blood.
As soon as the stream of casualties ceased, she'd need to find yet another set of clothes. As she took up a towel to wipe her
hands the young boy who'd come down during the battle returned to the cockpit. He looked better now -- at least he was warm
and dry.
"Excuse me...ummm, Marie," he said, "but I do not know where the bandaging is kept."
Her eyebrows rose a bit as she heard his accent -- it was unmistakable. "You're French," she stated, incredulous, "What on Earth
are you doing here?"
Although earlier, the doctor had spoken to her in her native language, she was not eager to have it widely known on this vessel
that she was also French. Although she thought it doubtful that she would be mistreated on account of it, it just seemed safer to
have the sailors assume that she was a nice English girl. Besides, she'd only be on the ship for another day or two at most
before they set down at Plymouth and let her off. No sense in disturbing the situation.
Marie was practiced at speaking in an English accent -- a talent she'd developed in the course of several years living in London,
and as much as she would have liked to speak to the boy in French, for now, at least, she did not.
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#290
05-03-2010, 10:38 PM
"Excuse me...ummm, Marie," Francois said, "but I do not know where the bandaging is kept."
Her eyebrows rose a bit as she heard his accent -- it was unmistakable. "You're French," she stated, incredulous, "What on Earth
are you doing here?"
He might ask the same of her, why was a young lady on this ship? But he instead answered her inquiry.
"Yes, I am. I am now prisoner here. I was on one of the ships this ship fired on. Some of the rigging collapsed and threw me into
the channel," the young man replied.
"It seems I have been now ordered to help you down here. I need some bandaging....well, if you do have a moment, perhaps
you should look at the man. He has a splinter in him," Francois jerked one thumb over toward Bourne who sat waiting for his
return.

He did not want to forget his manners, he was after all addressing a lady, "If you wish, madamoiselle."
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#291
05-03-2010, 11:48 PM
With the Terpsichore still moving, O'Mally was pondering just what to do next. A message came from Burke, the captain's
steward, the captain's cabin was ready.
"Tell the lads to take the captain to his quarters and Saints be willing, he'll wake up soon." O'Mally said."And if Lieutenant
Rutherford has been fixed up get him to his cabin as well!"
"Aye Aye Sir!" was the response.
"Rations are being prepared." another message received by O'Mally.
"Keep going our course, to avoid the French who are still searching for us." O'Mally stated to Bunts.
With the deck cleared, and what could be salvaged was salvaged, O'Mally felt that it was time for people to get some rest.
"Lieutenant Carson, have some of your men get something to eat, then get some rest and that goes for you as well. Lieutenant
Foxall, detail men to get something to eat and get rest as well. Depending on what the morning's light brings, we all need some
sleep. Make it two hour naps for everyone and do it in shifts."
He rubbed his eyes and ran his hand down his jaw. A cup of coffee was brought to him, Bunts and the other two lieutenants.
O'Mally accepted it gratefully, taking a sip of the hot drink.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#292
05-04-2010, 12:05 PM
[This post should chronologically occur right after Jon Allen's post of 05-01-2010, 09:01 AM, and prior to Marie's interaction with
Francois. Sorry for getting things out of order...]
Lieutenant Carson approached Marie, his hat in his hands. "Madam," he said in a grim tone. "We need a count, how many dead,
how many wounded?"
She straightened and wiped her cheek with the back of her hand, which only served to smear the blood around. Her eyes
suddenly seemed weary, as though the relative quiet after the battle had allowed the reality of the last hour to creep more fully
into her consciousness.
"I know of two dead, sir. One man was brought down... he..."
There was a slight catch in her voice and she blinked a few times before clearing her throat, stubbornly determined to keep her
composure. "He was..." she gestured to the dark blood stains on the floor near the locker. "He bled to death before we could do
anything for him. And Doctor Richardson -- it was an accident. The ship rocked and he stumbled, and fell onto the caitlin he
carried."
She drew a deep breath, "And there were seven with serious wounds."
Unable to restrain herself, she asked, "If I may ask, sir, what happened? Did we defeat them? Were they privateers?"
Last edited by Firefly; 05-04-2010, 12:06 PM. Reason: Added note about correct chronology of this post.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965

#293
05-04-2010, 01:30 PM
Sam was at a loss. O'Mally had taken over command, in a way he felt relieved for that and with Mister Carson and Mister Foxall
on deck, he was no longer needed there.
Normally he should be with Mister Rutherford, but seeing he was with the doctor, Sam doubted he would be able to do anything
there either.
He did the only thing he could do and helped clean up the deck with the other sailors. His mind going to the Captain and the First
Lieutenant though. First he had heard the news they were killed, but now it appeared they were still alive. He had seen others
being wounded and who were carried to the doctor.
Now that the battle seemed over and the wind picked up, he started to get cold. No matter what he tried he couldn't get warm.
He wondered if people would mind if he went to check in in sickbay, he wanted to know if his uncle and Mister Rutherford were
ok and he'd be out of the wind in there.
He stumbled a few steps in that direction, but then his legs somehow failed and he found himself sitting on the deck. Shivering
from the cold, feeling tired, hardly able to move at all.
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Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#294
05-04-2010, 03:42 PM
Originally posted by Firefly View Post
Lieutenant Carson approached Marie, his hat in his hands. "Madam," he said in a grim tone. "We need a count, how many dead,
how many wounded?"
She straightened and wiped her cheek with the back of her hand, which only served to smear the blood around. Her eyes
suddenly seemed weary, as though the relative quiet after the battle had allowed the reality of the last hour to creep more fully
into her consciousness.
"I know of two dead, sir. One man was brought down... he..."
There was a slight catch in her voice and she blinked a few times before clearing her throat, stubbornly determined to keep her
composure. "He was..." she gestured to the dark blood stains on the floor near the locker. "He bled to death before we could do
anything for him. And Doctor Richardson -- it was an accident. The ship rocked and he stumbled, and fell onto the caitlin he
carried."
She drew a deep breath, "And there were seven with serious wounds."
Unable to restrain herself, she asked, "If I may ask, sir, what happened? Did we defeat them? Were they privateers?"
Lieutenant Thomas Carson nodded slowly as he set the numbers to his own memory. By his own estimates mid-battle, they
were lower than expected. In all likelihood, Thomas thought, it as because the French had aimed their cannons at the tops and
not at the deck..if they had aimed at the deck...why it could...
The question posed at him suddenly registered in Thomas's mind. The Marine Lieutenant shook his head to clear his thoughts,
then said to Marie who was gazing at him in an expecting manner, "Pardon me Miss, my hearing has not fully returned."
"Not privateers Miss, at least I doubt it. We encountered two French ships of war in the fog," Thomas replied in explanation. "We
exchanged fire. I believe the ship is still largely intact but repairs are underway as we speak. We lost them in the fog, a fortunate
turn of fate it would seem."
Thomas explained, "In cannon alone, they greatly outnumbered us, as horrific as it was, the encounter could have been a lot
worse."
The Marine added, "I'm afraid it's not over yet, those ships are still out there. If they manage to guess our course, or if the fog
lifts, we could be at it again. Tensions will remain high for many hours I suspect. You should try to rest at any opportunity."
Lieutenant Carson's eyes surveyed the sick bay again, then said, "I'll take my leave Miss, if you need anything, please dispatch
someone to the Quarterdeck or call upon one of my Marines."

Thomas bowed at the waist slightly, then turned and left. Having a woman aboard the ship was still quite strange to him, and yet
the idea of not having Marine around, especially with the Doctor perished, was too terrible a thought to contemplate. For the time
being at least, they were better off, he was sure of it. As far as Thomas was concerned, sailor superstition could be damned right
now.
As Thomas left the sick bay, he was conscious of what he had said. The whole thing could have gone a lot worse, but he was
troubled that it happened at all. By all reckoning they had a mission to carry out and a long voyage ahead, but the French
weren't making it easy. Despite the uncertainties of a long voyage at open sea, at the moment it seemed preferable to hugging
the Channel with the French not but a few leagues away.
As Thomas returned to the Quarterdeck, the adrenaline from the action begun to wear off. He discovered a new unsteadiness in
his legs, and a tired ache in his mind. Although he would never admit it to anyone, his hindside felt sore and bruised from the fall
on the deck when he stepped on a cut sail line.
Eventually Thomas made it above-decks again. He looked around, making a quick inspection of the progress of the repairs. The
Marine Officer put the Shako back on his head and adjusted it before he turned and saluted the Quarterdeck as he stepped up
onto it.
Stepping onto the Quarterdeck, Thomas found O'Mally and others gathered there. As soon as he appeared, Thomas heard his
name addressed.
"Lieutenant Carson, have some of your men get something to eat, then get some rest and that goes for you as well. Lieutenant
Foxall, detail men to get something to eat and get rest as well. Depending on what the morning's light brings, we all need some
sleep. Make it two hour naps for everyone and do it in shifts."
"Ay sir," Thomas replied. "I have the report from sick bay, two dead and seven seriously wounded. I regret to report that the
Doctor is among the dead. The woman we fished from the sea is tending to the wounded."
Thomas waited for an acknowledgment of the report before turning to see to his own Marine Detachment.

Thomas turned to look for Colour Sergeant Bourne on the deck, but he wasn't there. Recalling that he had sent the man below-
decks, he looked for one of his Sergeants.

Stepping up to the rail overlooking the deck below, Thomas shouted, "Sergeant McKnight!"
The Marine, still holding a musket in his hands turned to face him.
"Sergeant, pass the word, first and Second Sections to stand down," Thomas ordered. "Third Section to sentry stations, we
resume normal duty rotation at the next bell. Tell the lads to get some rest but not to store muskets until so ordered."
"Yes sir," The Marine Sergeant replied then walked off.
The order meant that the Marines would go off-duty, but would keep their muskets, cartridges and other equipment with them. It
would save precious time if they suddenly found themselves in another engagement.
Thomas saw someone approach out of the corner of his eye. He saw a cup of coffee there offered to him.
"Thank you," he said simply with a nod.
The Marine took the cup and immediately took a sip. The coffee was terribly hot and burned his tongue, but Thomas truly didn't
care. The jolt to his mind was a welcomed relief from the exhaustion that was beginning to creep in. Unfortunately that heat had
the ill effect of reminding him of the cold winter chill in the air. Atop the Quarterdeck a breeze cut through that open space,
freezing Thomas's legs and feet. His weariness continued to compound itself, souring the Marine Officer's mood a bit to a polite
bitterness.
Thomas would remain on the Quarterdeck for just a little while longer, at least until Colour Sergeant Bourne had returned. Then
he would see about a much-needed nap to quench his weary soul.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#295

05-04-2010, 07:17 PM
Originally posted by JosephCade View Post
"Excuse me...ummm, Marie," Francois said, "but I do not know where the bandaging is kept."
Her eyebrows rose a bit as she heard his accent -- it was unmistakable. "You're French," she stated, incredulous, "What on Earth
are you doing here?"
He might ask the same of her, why was a young lady on this ship? But he instead answered her inquiry.
"Yes, I am. I am now prisoner here. I was on one of the ships this ship fired on. Some of the rigging collapsed and threw me into
the channel," the young man replied.
"It seems I have been now ordered to help you down here. I need some bandaging....well, if you do have a moment, perhaps
you should look at the man. He has a splinter in him," Francois jerked one thumb over toward Bourne who sat waiting for his
return.
He did not want to forget his manners, he was after all addressing a lady, "If you wish, madamoiselle."
"A prisoner?" Marie asked, as she collected bandages and a few tools. "Well then, I suppose I'm no longer the only misfit on
board." She offered the boy a slight smile. It was weary and fleeting, but genuine; she felt a bit of a kinship with the lad -- both of
them French, both of them violently separated from their companions. "I will do what I can to help. Come -- let's see to him."
As they made their way over to Bourne, she asked, "So what's your name, if I may ask?"
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#296
05-04-2010, 08:05 PM
"A prisoner?" Marie asked, as she collected bandages and a few tools. "Well then, I suppose I'm no longer the only misfit on
board."
"Misfit?" Francois raised one eyebrow, had it not been such a pretty young miss calling him that he might have been insulted.
She had not meant it in that way though apparently.
She offered the boy a slight smile. It was weary and fleeting, but genuine; she felt a bit of a kinship with the lad -- both of them
French, both of them violently separated from their companions. "I will do what I can to help. Come -- let's see to him."
"Merci...I mean...thank you, I can only hope they do not execute their prisoners," he sighed and followed her.
As they made their way over to Bourne, she asked, "So what's your name, if I may ask?"
"I am Francois, Francois Josephe-Marie Vachot at your service, madamoiselle," he smiled.
He might have added some more but they had reached the burly English marine with the arm injury and Marie had more
pressing issues to tend to than chatting with him.
__________________
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#297
05-05-2010, 10:41 AM
As O'Mally sipped his coffee, he surveyed the men and those who were moving below for their naps and food. His eyes stopped
on the exhausted Sam, who wasn't too far from the Quarterdeck.
"Mister Daniels, see to the lad there, get him down below and get yourself and Mister Dunlahm something to eat and get
warmed up. " O'Mally called out.

Daniels saluted and went over to Sam, helping him up "Lets get you below and good work." he said kindly. "I'll make certain
Mister Mathers gives you something special." He said, supporting Sam down the stairs.
O'Mally watched until they disappeared from sight, then turned back around, he was tired but he had the deck until the morning's
light or even longer as was warranted. He was saddened and it was evident in his eyes hearing the report of the dead and
wounded, from Thomas. He could also see in the dim light of the lamp the toll of the earlier battle, showing on the faces of the
lieutenants next to him.
Quietly O'Mally remarked, "We've got a fine crew, Thomas and Andrew. Ya did rather well and I believe that the captain, once he
wakes up, will be pleased as to your performance in battle."He sipped at his coffee noting that the temperature was cooling
down. "Somethin' ta write down in the books" he continued. "Don't know if anyone would believe what's happened but...Its
somethin' worth writin' about. Later on, we'll drink to those who have died, lifting our glasses in mem'ry to them and to toll the
bells." his voice growing hoarse with the emotions he was feeling, losing a ship mate never was a happy time. It left a hole in the
workings of a ship and a loss that affected everyone.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#298
05-06-2010, 12:48 AM
"I am Francois, Francois Josephe-Marie Vachot at your service, madamoiselle," the boy smiled as he spoke and Marie couldn't
help but grin a tiny bit, too.
"Nice to meet you, Monsieur Vachot," she said, "My name is Marie... though you seem already to have known that."
The word 'monsieur' flowed from her lips naturally, without her even really noticing she'd said it. It was only one word, briefly
spoken, but just perhaps, Francois could hear now comfortable it sounded on her lips.
The lad's propriety towards her would have seemed quite normal, had it not been for the fact that she was currently feeling like
anything but a 'madamoiselle'. She stood, wearing ill-fitting men's clothes, soaked with blood. Her hair was pulled and tied
behind her head in a crude ponytail, and strands of it had come loose and were caked in dried red, as were her cheeks and chin.
She suspected that she was a pretty horrifying site to behold.
Fortunately, she had little time to devote to such things, as her attention was demanded by the tasks at hand.
Addressing the burly Marine before her, she said, "Excuse me, sir, but Monsieur Vachot here says that you've been injured?"
Bourne lifted his right arm and exposed the cut. "A small thing," he said, casually, "not much of a problem, except that it won't
seem to stop bleeding all over everything."
Marie furrowed her brow as she looked at it. A deep gash ran for several inches along the man's arm. As Bourne removed his
hand that hand been holding it closed, it gaped wide, and blood immediately welled within it, and began to spill out before he
returned his hand to close it.
Only days before, the mere sight of such a thing would have caused Marie enormous distress, but after having seen far worse
over the past hour, she felt a little bit numb, and only nodded.
"I'll be right back. One moment, sir..."
She returned in a few minutes with a bottle of rum and needle and thread. Kneeling to get well-positioned in front of the
sergeant's arm, she splashed rum on one of the bandages and offered the bottle to the man. "This may be uncomfortable," she
said.
He shook his head, "Save it for someone with something more than a scratch, miss," he said gruffly, "I've got work to do and can
ill afford it right now. This little thing is hardly worth fussing over. Stop the bleeding and I'll be fine."
Marie could easily tell from the man's voice that he was quite serious, and doubted that the needle would pose any difficulties for
him, so setting the bottle aside, she nodded to him, "Very well. Remove your hand, then."
Bourne withdrew his hand from the arm, and again the wound opened and began to bleed. Working quickly, Marie dabbed the
rum-soaked cloth into the wound, spreading it slightly to look for any splinters as Bourne looked on, stone-faced.

"...Got to get all of it out..." she remembered the surgeon telling her, as she peered closely, dabbing away blood with the rum-
soaked linen as she looked for any bits of shrapnel. There were only a couple that she saw, which she picked out with the

whalebone tweezers, before she took up the threaded needle and began to stitch the wound closed.
Bourne watched, without commentary, not even the barest flinch registering on his face as time and again the needle plunged
through the wound. Marie worked reasonably quickly, and within a few minutes the wound had been closed and the last ends of
the black thread tied into tiny knots.
Splashing a bit more rum on the wound, Marie took the clean linen cloth bandages and wrapped the sergeant's arm.
"There," she said, standing, and suddenly feeling quite exhausted. "That should do for now."
The sergeant stood and tipped his head briskly. "My thanks, miss," he said, his voice gruff, but not without sincerity. He seemed
to have appreciated her no-nonsense demeanor. Turning on his heels he set off, above decks to see to his duties.
Marie sat down on a cot. She felt weak and utterly spent. Taking one of the remaining bandages, she wiped her cheeks and
hands, and managed to take off some -- but not all -- of the blood.
"I'm very tired," she said to Francois, "Could you go and ask one of the officers if there are any more wounded that I should tend
to? And if not... where it would be appropriate for me to take a bit of rest?"
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Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#299
05-06-2010, 07:48 PM
Quietly O'Mally remarked, "We've got a fine crew, Thomas and Andrew. Ya did rather well and I believe that the captain, once he
wakes up, will be pleased as to your performance in battle."He sipped at his coffee noting that the temperature was cooling
down. "Somethin' ta write down in the books" he continued. "Don't know if anyone would believe what's happened but...Its
somethin' worth writin' about. Later on, we'll drink to those who have died, lifting our glasses in mem'ry to them and to toll the
bells." his voice growing hoarse with the emotions he was feeling, losing a ship mate never was a happy time. It left a hole in the
workings of a ship and a loss that affected everyone.
"Very good," was Thomas's simple reply. The ache and exhaustion of his body was quickly catching up with him and it was all he
could do to stay on his feet.
From below-decks, Colour Sergeant Bourne appeared. His sleeve was still torn and bloody but he seemed well.
"Sir," Bourne said from the bottom of the Quarterdeck.
Stepping over to the rail, Thomas replied, "Are you on the mend Mr. Bourne?"
"Ay sir," Bourne replied. "What orders?"
"I have stood down most of the men, let them eat and rest," Thomas replied. "Sergeant McKnight has the details. If you don't
mind taking this watch, I'll take the next."
"Very good sir," Bourne replied without so much as a wisp of protest.
"Good man," Thomas replied.
Turning to the others, he said, "Colour Sergeant Bourne has the Marines, I will retire until the next watch, until then gentlemen I
take my leave."
Thomas tipped his hat and then walked down from the Quarterdeck to the entry into the Wardroom. The Marine sentry at the
wardroom door raised his musket to present arms, holding it vertically before him as Thomas passed.
The Marine Officer made a rig line for his quarters and stepped into his tiny but private home. He saw his journal on the deck,
obviously knocked about by cannon fire. Thomas picked it up and placed it back on the small cabinet shelf where it belonged.
Removing his hat and jacket, the Marine slowly sat down, mindful of his bruised rump. Then he began to work on removing his
shoes.

The action had been short but fierce. Thomas hadn't seen anything like it. This wasn't his first duty aboard a frigate, but it was
his first ship action. The indecisiveness of it left him feeling odd, both frustrated and relieved at the same time. He had no idea
what damage they had done to the French, but he knew the Terpsichore herself had taken damage and lost some of her crew. It
felt like a job left unfinished and that bothered him. At the same time, he felt glad to be alive and free. If the French ships had
both managed to broadside them, Thomas might very well be dead.

Relief and frustration at the same time, plus something else, a strange paranoia. The engagement had given Thomas a new-
found fear of the fog, the likes of which he had not felt before. A fear of what might lie just beyond the mist. He already knew he

would be seeing ghostly ship-like figures the next time he stood watch in this or some other fog. It was highly irrational, like a
child's fear of the dark, but it was there.
He suspected it would remain with him for sometime.
Fortunately, as he laid down, exhaustion overcame those thoughts, and Lieutenant Thomas Carson fell fast asleep still wearing
his belt, scabbard, sword and pants with the rest of his clothes casually scattered about his tiny officer's quarters.
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#300
05-06-2010, 10:58 PM
Ruben was lying in his cot when he awoke. The first thing he knew was the pain. His ribs, his arm, and his head were on fire. His
arm seemed to be bound to his body.
The ship noises of the Terp said she was close hauled and the tale tell compass nailed to the the deck above his cot said they
were sailing on the same tack as when he was taken out, the the guns were not firing, he was in his cabin, he wondered what
was going on.
Captain Williams looked sideways and saw his steward, "Help me up."
Burke said, "in a moment, but you seem feverish, take a moment and let me put this cool rag on your head." Burke had just
wrung out a cool rag in a bowl of water. He placed it on the Captain's head even though it seemed the Captain would protest.
"You need to get your bearing Sir, please just take a moment and let the rag calm you a bit, you don't look so well, Sir."
"Damn your eyes, I will have you flogged if you don't help me out of this cot now!" Ruben cursed, he rolled over pulling the cloth
off his head and throwing it across the room. "Help me to my feet Damn you!"
Burke's heart raced to his throat once again. But this time more in anger and frustration, as he was still partially in shock him
own self since this was his first experience in battle. "How about Damn you Sir. Flogged? For helping you? You need to rest for a
few moments at least Sir, from the sight of you. I have done nothing but try and help you, and why do I care about you Sir?
Umm, because you are my Captain, it is my duty Sir. At least to my knowledge, if I am wrong, please then do flog me." Burke's
heart pounded in panic and fear, but he still meant what he said.
Ruben's good hand came down hard on Burke's shoulder as he rolled over out of the cot. Long time practice put his feet on the
ground but he leaned heavy on Burke. "Tomorrow," Ruben gasped in pain, "I'll bend you over a gun and beat you on the bare
breach. But for now help me to the quarterdeck."
"Fine Sir, as you wish. Tomorrow then, beat my bare butt, as it seems that is what you wish." Burke said as he beared the
Captain's heavy weight.
They walked slowly out of the Cabin and then worked slowly up the ladder to the Quarterdeck. Ruben using Burke like an extra
set of legs. "Set a course for the Mizzen Mast, I can sit on that rail Mister Burke."
"Fine Sir, as you wish." Burke helped him limp over and set him down on the rail around the mast sticking through the
Quarterdeck. "Can I at least bring you water, food or something to get your strength going?"
"Water, mix it with rum." Ruben said, "thank-you Burke, and in the Navy we say Aye and when a course is given you repeat it
back, Mizzen Mast Aye." He gave a lopsided grin, "I'll make you a seaman yet Mister Burke."
"Aye Sir, rum and water coming right up." Burke gave him a wink, and ran quickly away and soon returned with a tankard of
water and rum.

Ruben drank it off in on long drought. "Thank you Burke. Just stand by right over here and be on hand if I need you."
Ruben looked over the Quarterdeck, "Mister O'Mally, what the Sam Hell have you done with my ship?"
<tag>
JP by
Edmund Burke
and
Ruben Williams
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#301
05-07-2010, 10:14 PM
Marie had said 'monsieur' in just the perfect French accent he had instantly noted. He wondered if perhaps she had some
French background to her? Unfortunately he did not have time right then to pursue such a theory.
Now that the young woman reached the injured sergeant, Francois simply stood back and watched her in action. She examined
the wound, the man kept saying it was nothing but to the young Frenchman it looked quite ugly. It would have to be stitched up
for certain.
After cleaning the wound, Marie did just that, she sewed it up seemingly as calm as if she was mending a garment. He admired
her skill, and her almost professional way about her. It did not hurt either that she was very pretty, even if she was a bloody mess
at the moment.
Marie sat down on a cot. She felt weak and utterly spent. Taking one of the remaining bandages, she wiped her cheeks and
hands, and managed to take off some -- but not all -- of the blood.
Francois sympathized with the poor thing, she looked exhausted. It had to have been horrifying work.
"I'm very tired," she said to Francois, "Could you go and ask one of the officers if there are any more wounded that I should tend
to? And if not... where it would be appropriate for me to take a bit of rest?"
"I would indeed be happy to do just that but I do not know any of the officers. And that sergeant you sewed up, he specifically
ordered me to stay with you down here.," he prevaricated, not wishing to get into any trouble.
Still, she had requested a simple favor and he felt he could not deny her that. It went against his gentlemanly upbringing.
"But....I will do my best," he nodded then moved thru the sick bay past the wounded and finally up onto the main deck, being on
the lookout for a suitable officer.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#302
05-08-2010, 10:27 PM
O'Mally had gone back to watching the progress of the ship and watching the men who were left to keep the ship running, while
the others took their rest. He nearly jumped when he heard the captain's voice, and whirled around seeing the Captain standing
next to Burke. There was a bit of a cheer when it was noticed that the Captain was back on the quarterdeck.
"Grand ta see you Captain!" O'Mally said with a salute and a grin then back to his somber self, "Ye're lookin' better than what ye
had when you were first found. The Terpsichore, she took a beatin' from the French, tore off the main top-gallant mast. It hit
where you and Mister Rutherford were standin' plus killed the young'un that was next to you. Mister Bunts was fortunately
spared. Ye'll be proud of Mister Dunlahm, he got the ship out of the way, turning Northward being in command until myself and

Lieutenant Carson got to the quarter-deck." O'Mally stated, looking Ruben right straight in his eyes. "We're now heading back in
our proper direction, and I took a hunch thinkin' that you'd have us hug the French shoreline, as the French wouldn't be thinkin'
we'd be doing that. I'm thinkin' they'd be looking for us, thinking we'd be headin' back, towards home."
O'Mally noted the way the Captain was standing but wasn't going mention it.
"The men were magnificent, inspite of the odds against them and with you, as well as Mister Rutherford, bein' injured. Doctor
Richardson is dead, the woman that we fished out of the water,Miss Marie, she's been takin' care of the wounded, and doin' a
mighty fine job of that. We'd be in a world of hurt if it weren't for her, and that includes you, Captain. I've not changed courses
yet, just been having us sail in the direction we were first headin', to make up for time that was lost due to our encounter with the
French.If you or Mister Rutherford weren't awake by mornin's first light, I would have had to make a choice between two options.
One, try to get back to England avoiding the French ships that were prowling out and about in the fog, Two, look around your
desk to see if you had any orders just in case something should go wrong, then proceed as per the orders. I do know what with
that shipment of gold we're hauling, you would not have wanted the Ship captured and us losing it."
He looked towards the foggy sky, noting that it looked like the sky was starting to lighten up abit, then turned back towards
Ruben.
"Captain, I've got the men divided into a rotation with two hour naps, then the next shift takes over, after they've had some sleep.
Currently sir, it is my watch on the quarter-deck, what are your orders concerning the ship?"
As he waited for the Captain's orders, O'Mally noticed the young Frenchman who was fished out of the sea as well. "One other
thing I need to mention, we do have a new recruit for our ship, and that is that young man there," Nodding towards Francois "He
was fished out of the sea, apparently he fell overboard off of the French ship we encountered. I had sent him below, to help
Marie out in surgery."
To O'Mally the Captain needed to get some rest, but he also knew that seeing the Captain on his feet was a good boost to the
spirits of the men.
<tags>
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Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#303
05-09-2010, 07:19 AM
Ruben leaned onto the rack of pike stave that surrounded the Mizzen Mast. He nodded to O'Mally's report, "very good," was the
only comment but at the mention of a 'new recruit' his eyebrows rose.
"We will continue your course Mister O'Mally, and your plan for resting the men. At first light we will rig a new ta-gallant mast and
royal too. Have the Frenchman come here, I will talk to him. I will address the crew at the changing of the watch" Ruben said.
He had no intention of lying down, at least not till both watches had seen him for themselves. The crew that knew their Captain
was still alive and in command worked all the harder then one with the rumor of the Captain's death running around. And Damn
it, these men had fought off a French Ship of the Line, they should be elated not feeling like whipped pups.
<tag O'Mally (Rutherford) and Francois>
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#304
05-09-2010, 10:27 AM
With the help from Mister Daniels, Sam was able to stay on his feet long enough until he was below and settled next to the stove
trying to get a bit warmer. A few moments later he mumbled, "Thank you" towards Mister Daniels as he was given a bowl filled
with hot porridge, a spoon and a mug halffilled with rum.

Sam took a smal sip of the mug and he felt the booze burning his throat as he swallowed. Trembling he picked up the spoon and
slowly started eating the porridge, managing not to spoil anything on his uniform though. At first, things were a bit quiet down
here in the mess, but once the sailors had some booze in their stomachs and realized they had survived the French attack,
things started to get louder and louder.
But however Sam hardly heard anything from it all, once he finished the mug of rum ontop of the warm porridge and the heat of
the stove did the rest. His eyelids became heavy and a few moments later, he fell fast asleep.
Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#305
05-09-2010, 02:47 PM
"You! You there!" a sailor poked Francois between the shoulders.
The young Frenchman spun about, half expecting to see the man armed and ready to cut him down.
"Yes?"
"You speak English then?" the sailor asked, somewhat needlessly it seemed.
"I do....I was told to come up here and I am ...." Francois started but the sailor had no patience and interrupted.
"Officer says you're to report directly to the captain. That means now. Move, this way!" the sailor gestured and indeed Francois
could see the English officer who only earlier had been being treated for injuries down below decks. The man was obviously
made of tough fiber.
The sailor saluted Reuben, "Here's the froggie, sir!"
Francois wasn't exactly sure if he should actually salute an enemy officer but it did seem the appropriate action to do. He
straightened and saluted.
A part of him wondered if this captain would now give orders to have him strung up from a yardarm or even tossed back into the
brutal cold channel water.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#306
05-09-2010, 10:53 PM
*Quarter Deck*
O'Mally's eyes misted over, as he saw the renewed life go through the men. They were certainly fine men and he was proud of
them and his Captain. "Aye Sir continue on the course, men rested. At first light, new ta-gallant mast and the Royal colors flying
once more." He said feeling a great amount of pride.
He watched as Francois climbed up to the quarter deck, looking a bit nervous. He couldn't blame the lad, he'd probably be
nervous if he were in this particular situation. O'Mally's thoughts turned to where Aubrey was concerned, did he survive? Of
course he survived, if the Captain did why shouldn't Aubrey, Marie did a fine job in fixing up the captain's wounds, he could see it
with his own eyes. And they said having a woman onboard was bad luck? He mentally snorted, perish the thought, she's been
good luck so far, especially since she's been able to do what she's done.
O'Mally felt his spirits rise, it looked like things were turning around for them all and a smile crossed his lips. Indeed he didn't feel
the coldness of the fog, the worrisome thoughts chased away by the mere presence of the Captain. He smiled at Burke and
nodded towards him, he was a good lad, a good lad indeed.
*In the mess*
There was a short chuckle when Sam fell asleep and he was gently moved to his hammock.

"Imagine him having to give the orders to get us out of the battle with them froggies" said one sailor to another.
"He did right and proper that one. He was scared spitless but he done us proud."
"Shush up now, got to get some sleep before we report back to duty." said another.
"Aw right, Aw right you don't have to ask twice." And soon those that were to rest, fell fast asleep.
Quote Flag
Ragsdale
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 418
#307
05-10-2010, 11:44 AM
Andrew awoke with a start. At first he didn't recognize where he was. His quarters were near blackness. Once he recognized his
surroundings, he became more puzzled. How did he end up here?
"Will," Foxall called loudly for his steward. After a few minutes silence, Andrew called once again. "Will?"
"Sir?," came the sleep response from William.
"What time is it, Will?"
"We're at six bells into the Middle Watch, Sir," replied the steward.
"And the ship? How is it?"
"Sir?"
"The ship. How is it?"
"The ship's fine, Sir. Are you alright, Sir?"
"I'm fine, Will. Just a little groggy is all. You go back to sleep. I'll be alright."
Andrew sat up on his cot. Fumbling for the matches on his desk, he lit the lantern hanging on the thin wall. Foxall filled the small
basin on the edge of his desk with water and splashed the water on his head and face. The cold liquid ran down his back and
instantly brought a semblence of life back to his tired body. Pulling his overcoat off the back on the chair, he slipped the coat on
over his vest and linen shirt. Affixing his sword onto his belt, Andrew grabbed his hat and headed up on deck. Seeing Patrick
there gave Foxall a sense of relief. Lt. O'Malley had taken over command of the ship as if he had been captaining for decades.
He approached his superior and saluted.
"Lt. O'Malley, Sir, How are you doing?"
<Tag O'Malley>
"I must apologize sir for disappearing. I hope you'll forgive me."
<Tag O'Malley - I hope he tells me he ordered me to go get some sleep.>
OFF:
Quote Flag
Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#308
05-10-2010, 12:32 PM
The sailor saluted Ruben, "Here's the froggie, sir!"
Francois wasn't exactly sure if he should actually salute an enemy officer but it did seem the appropriate action to do. He
straightened and saluted.

A part of him wondered if this captain would now give orders to have him strung up from a yardarm or even tossed back into the
brutal cold channel water.
Ruben reached to touch his hat to this young man only to find he was not wearing one but a bandage. "Bienvenue à Sa Majesté
britannique Royal Terpsichore de frégate, monsieur. Je suis le capitaine, Ruben Williams. Parlez-vous anglais?" He said it in
poor French he knew, that was the only French at his command... poor French.
He looked the young man over, he could not be a common seaman, his features were to fine, to... refined, he had to have been
one of their officers, a youngster, a Mid probably. Joined the Navy for honor and glory, now this... poor bastar*.
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Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#309
05-10-2010, 02:33 PM
Marie headed down to the cockpit as Francois made his way above decks. She assumed he'd know to find her there, if he was
able to come back at all. He seemed a decent young man, so she hoped the officers would treat him well.
The cockpit was empty when she got there: someone had taken the doctor's body away -- she wasn't sure when. But now, she
was completely alone.
Leaning up against the bulkhead, her eyes wandered around the room. Steel surgical instruments were blackened with dried
blood as was the canvas that had been draped over the lockers. She saw a hand print that had been smeared on the edge of it
when one young sailor had tried to help hold down a screaming man. Marie's ears still rang with the awful sounds that had filled
this place.
The Terpsichore rocked gently in the waves, causing the timbers to creak in such a way that it almost sounded as though the
ship herself was moaning.
Then it came over her like a wave. For countless hours she'd held herself together by a sheer force of will. She had been
determined to do whatever had been required, and to not fail on account of any of her own weaknesses. She had desperately
wanted the men to see her as useful and capable. She had desperately not wanted to think of her father and her governess and
their possible fates.
But now, alone in the cockpit, weary and weak, she felt herself begin to shudder, her body wracked in a series of quiet sobs.
Tears started flowing freely, mixing with the blood on her cheeks in long dark streaks as she slid down the bulkhead and slumped
against the floor.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#310
05-10-2010, 05:14 PM
Lt. O'Mally turned his attention away from the Captain and his interview of the 'new recruit', This was a matter for the Captain
and not him. He could feel himself getting fairly tired, but he wasn't going to leave until the ship was put to order, and after the
Captain was sufficiently ready to go lie down and get his rest. He hadn't heard Andrew's approach until he spoke.
"Lt. O'Malley, Sir, How are you doing?"
Turning, Patrick nodded towards Andrew. "Lieutenant Foxall,I'm doing well."
"I must apologize sir for disappearing. I hope you'll forgive me." said Andrew.
"You disappearing?" O'Mally thought for a moment then he smiled. "You were so tired, Mister Foxall that I told you to get some
rest, After all with Lt. Rutherford being hurt, I needed someone to get some rest." O'Mally said with a chuckle. "And you must still
be fairly tired to have walked right past the Captain, without realizing it. "
He quirked his head in the direction of the Captain; who was minus his hat and talking to the young Frenchman nearby.

"I'm glad you were able to get some sleep, I wager you fell asleep before your head hit the pillow." Patrick said with a grin.
<tag Foxall>
Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#311
05-10-2010, 05:35 PM
Francois gave a hopefully proper salute to the English commander.
Ruben reached to touch his hat to this young man only to find he was not wearing one but a bandage. "Bienvenue à Sa Majesté
britannique Royal Terpsichore de frégate, monsieur. Je suis le capitaine, Ruben Williams. Parlez-vous anglais?" He said it in
poor French he knew, that was the only French at his command... poor French.
The man's French was certainly understandable and almost like music to the lad's ears but sadly that did not put him back on
deck of his own ship. The reality was he was a prisoner of the enemies of his country and escape was..well..impossible for now.
"Oui, mon capitaine," Francois started but then switched back to the captain's language, "I speak English quite well."
"I wish to thank you, sir, for fishing me out of the water, I am grateful for your mercy. Oh...I am Francois Marie-Josephe Vachot,
aspirant...umm, midshipman, French Republic's ship of the line, Le Trajan."
Quote Flag
Lupe
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Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#312
05-10-2010, 08:48 PM
"I wish to thank you, sir, for fishing me out of the water, I am grateful for your mercy. Oh...I am Francois Marie-Josephe Vachot,
aspirant...umm, midshipman, French Republic's ship of the line, Le Trajan."
"votre accueil." Ruben answered him, "I am distressed to tell you I can not return you to the Trojan." He gestured toward the fog,
"as you see I dare not. So my dear sir, what am I to do with you?"
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#313
05-10-2010, 10:32 PM
"votre accueil." Ruben answered him, "I am distressed to tell you I can not return you to the Trojan."
"Oui," Francois nodded ruefully, he knew that of course.
The captain gestured toward the fog, "as you see I dare not. So my dear sir, what am I to do with you?"
Francois swallowed, his mouth becoming quite dry all of a sudden.
"I'm sorry, sir, but I do not know how to answer that. I can only hope that you will not decide to ....."
He did not even want to voice his fears. Besides both nations were civilized, such actions were not done, were they? Except that
the rumors had been such that Francois' older brother had been killed by English privateers AFTER his ship had struck it's
colors.
"What can I say? My fate is in your hands, captain," he stuck out his chest a bit and straightened his posture to hear his fate like
a man.
Quote Flag

Lupe
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Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#314
05-11-2010, 06:44 AM
"I'm sorry, sir, but I do not know how to answer that. I can only hope that you will not decide to ....."
"What can I say? My fate is in your hands, captain," he stuck out his chest a bit and straightened his posture to hear his fate like
a man.
"Will you serve the crown? I can make you a Midshipman in the Royal English Navy if you can say in front of me and my
Officers, Vive le roi!" Ruben said softly. "Or is that asking to much of you. The House of Bourbon is a sore subject for a lot of
Frenchmen now days."
Edit Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#315
05-11-2010, 08:37 PM
"Will you serve the crown? I can make you a Midshipman in the Royal English Navy if you can say in front of me and my
Officers, Vive le roi!" Ruben said softly. "Or is that asking to much of you. The House of Bourbon is a sore subject for a lot of
Frenchmen now days."
Francois blinked. Much as he wanted to live, that was simply too much to ask of him.
"I'm sorry, sir, but I will say no such thing. The king ruined France and he got what he deserved. The people rule France now.
Would you really respect anyone who would turn traitor against their own country, their own people?"
He'd probably said too much and with too much vehemence...but it was done now and he'd have to take the consequences.
Francois breathed in, nerves taut.
Quote Flag
Lupe
Виктор Круглов
Join Date: Apr 2009
Posts: 9349
#316
05-11-2010, 08:46 PM
Ruben nodded to him. "I was hoping you were perhaps a not so strong Republican."
"Mister O'Mally," Captain Williams called to the Lieutenant near him, "press this man, I believe we had some losses in the tops
tonight, he can be a topman, Starboard watch, he is small enough to man the Royal yard arms."
He looked at Francois, "read him the Articles of War so that he knows what happens to him if he refuses his duty."
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#317
05-12-2010, 12:28 AM
Aubrey woke up,his head throbbed and his cheek felt like it was on fire. Sitting up, he immediately regretted it. Where the devil
was he at? Fumbling about he found a lamp then a match. Lighting the lamp he recognized where he was, his own quarters. He
caught sight of his image in his mirror, a bandage was on his cheek and his brow.

Aubrey noticed that his coat and shirt were missing, he had no idea of the condition they were in, but he wanted them back. He
put on a shirt tucking it in, then headed to the surgeon's cockpit. Perhaps the Doctor will know of their whereabouts.
He opened the door quietly, stepping inside, he didn't see the doctor but he saw the young woman lying on the floor, her body
shaking with quiet sobs.
"Mademoiselle, are you all right?" Aubrey asked quietly, touching her shoulder gently.
<tag>
Quote Flag
Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#318
05-12-2010, 10:56 AM
"Mademoiselle, are you all right?" said a voice as Marie felt a hand gently touch her shoulder.
She had been crying for some time in a state of half-sleep on the floor in the cockpit, but the voice and touch startled her into
wakefulness. Clearing her throat, she sat up and blurted, "Qu'est-ce? Oh. Désolé."
Looking up, she saw Aubrey and felt very embarrassed. She had not wanted any of the men to see her crying -- especially not
one of the officers. "S-sorry," she said, and quickly tried wiping the tears from her cheeks, but the sleeve, caked with dried blood,
only served to smear things around. "I'm sorry. Yes, yes," she said, sniffing and clearing her throat again, in an effort to sound
composed. "Thank you. I am fine, yes."
She got to her feet, wiping her eyes once more with her hands, a brief, embarrassed, forced smile came to her face, "I am sorry.
I didn't realize you were here, sir. I... I wasn't sure where I should go, so I just stayed down here."
Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#319
05-12-2010, 05:32 PM
Ruben nodded to him. "I was hoping you were perhaps a not so strong Republican."
"I am loyal to France," Francois dared say, if he was doomed then at least he'd have his say first and they'd know he didn't die a
coward.
"Mister O'Mally," Captain Williams called to the Lieutenant near him, "press this man, I believe we had some losses in the tops
tonight, he can be a topman, Starboard watch, he is small enough to man the Royal yard arms."
So that was it? He was to become a sailor and work the rigging for them? On the bright side, at least they weren't going to
HANG him from the yard arm. Gaspard felt a bit of relief anyways.
He looked at Francois, "read him the Articles of War so that he knows what happens to him if he refuses his duty."
"I will obey your orders, captain. But nothing can make me fight and kill my own countrymen," Francois agreed but he wanted the
captain to know there were limits to his obedience.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#320
05-12-2010, 05:49 PM
"Mademoiselle, are you all right?" said a voice as Marie felt a hand gently touch her shoulder.

She had been crying for some time in a state of half-sleep on the floor in the cockpit, but the voice and touch startled her into
wakefulness. Clearing her throat, she sat up and blurted, "Qu'est-ce? Oh. Désolé."
Looking up, she saw Aubrey and felt very embarrassed. She had not wanted any of the men to see her crying -- especially not
one of the officers. "S-sorry," she said, and quickly tried wiping the tears from her cheeks, but the sleeve, caked with dried blood,
only served to smear things around. "I'm sorry. Yes, yes," she said, sniffing and clearing her throat again, in an effort to sound
composed. "Thank you. I am fine, yes."
She got to her feet, wiping her eyes once more with her hands, a brief, embarrassed, forced smile came to her face, "I am sorry.
I didn't realize you were here, sir. I... I wasn't sure where I should go, so I just stayed down here."
Aubrey smiled, as best he could with the bandage on his face then it faded away looking at her physical appearance and the
state of her clothing. He wondered where the doctor was and why hadn't the lady been seen to.
"Just how daft can Doctor Richardson be? Leaving you here instead of making certain you had a place to lay your head down
on. The man will certainly have piece of my mind when I find him." Aubrey said, with a great deal of feeling.
Remembering why he was there, Aubrey asked, "Out of curiousity milady, have you seen my shirt and my uniform jacket?"
looking about for it. "I woke up in my room, finding myself bandaged up and minus those said items."
"The doctor..." Marie drew a deep breath, and tried to speak clearly, though there was still a slight waver in her voice, "I'm very
sorry to tell you that Doctor Richardson died during the battle, sir. He stumbled and fell on one of the surgical instruments when
the ship tilted to the side."
Wiping her eyes once more, she nodded, "Your coat and shirt, yes. I think perhaps they are over here." She moved around to
the far side of the lockers, still lashed together into the makeshift surgical table. The lieutenant's things had been folded and laid
aside there, where they wouldn't be covered with blood. Picking them up, she turned and offered them to Aubrey. "They may be
a bit dirty, but we tried to keep them clear of most of the... the blood."
Aubrey took the offered coat and shirt, rather quiet as he thought over what Marie had just said, then he spoke, "Thank you."
Then he asked."Was it you or the doctor who patched me up?" watching Marie closely.
"That was me," she said quietly, her eyes falling to the deck. "The doctor was already dead by the time the men brought you
down."
"Well then, you have claim to the doctor's former abode for the time being, and thank you, I do believe my brother would love to
hear how well you did under these circumstances. And would marvel about it too. He is a doctor in his own right." Aubrey said
offering his arm to Marie."I'll get them to clean up the place including the instruments, unless you'd prefer to do it yourself. I
remember my brother being rather fastidious with how he wanted his instruments to be treated. As a matter of fact. You have
inherited the Doctor's instruments as well."
Marie accepted his arm. She had to admit to herself that it felt steadying to have someone to hold on to -- not so much physically
as emotionally. It had been an extremely trying couple of days.
"Thank you, sir," she sighed quietly, finally beginning to feel her composure return. "I tried to do my best. It's very good to see
that you are doing so well. You were quite unconscious when they brought you down here before."
Looking at the mess in the cockpit, she added, "I am only to be on board as far as Plymouth, so my time here will be short. But I
will do what I can to help. Perhaps if someone could help unstrap and arrange the lockers while I get some rest, then I could
come back and clean the instruments?"
"I'll make certain that is taken care of, Milady." Aubrey said with a small smile, careful to make certain it wouldn't pull the stitches
too much. He escorted Marie to the Doctor's quarters. "You should be able to find some clean clothing, amongst the departed
Doctor's belongings." He opened the door for Marie, as he opened the door, Aubrey asked. "Was the Captain injured? Do you
have any idea of what condition the ship is in?" There was an expression of worry upon Aubrey's brow. "And have you had
anything to eat.." Aubrey's mind was racing in quite a few directions.
Marie stepped inside the small, but surprisingly welcoming space of the Doctor's quarters. It felt odd to be in this man's place so
soon after his death; everything seemed to be moving so fast. But, she was exhausted, and the bed, with its unkempt woolen
blankets looked extremely good.
"I don't know much about the condition of the ship, I'm afraid," she began, "I was below decks the entire time. However, the
Captain was injured. He was brought down to me unconscious and with a broken arm. In fact, he was brought down at the same
time that you were."

Aubrey's eyes widened at this piece of news. "The Captain was injured too? By the Heavens, that must have been a blow to the
crew's morale." Aubrey looked at Marie, "I'm sure the doctor has food here. What he had is yours." He took Marie's hand and
kissed the back of it." By your leave Milady, I need see to the men." He clicked his heels together, and gave a reassuring smile to
Marie. "I am indeed grateful for your skills."
Marie felt her face flush as Aubrey kissed her hand, and was grateful for the darkness in the room which she hoped had hidden it
from him. Under ordinary circumstances, his gentlemanly manner wouldn't have seemed so strange to her, but as had been the
case with Francois, being treated like a proper lady felt strangely at odds with how she currently felt. Nonetheless, she returned
Aubrey's warm smile with her own. "Thank you, sir. It is because of you and your crew that I am alive at all. So I am grateful for
your skills as well. Thank you so much for your kindness."
As Aubrey left, she looked around the small quarters, dimly lit with the light of one candle lantern. She discovered a large pitcher
of water and a small towel and she took off the dirty clothes and set to bathing herself with the washcloth. Several minutes later,
she felt much better, the dried blood having finally been completely removed from her face, hands and hair. Now completely
exhausted, she decided she would explore the quarters more after a bit of rest, so she slipped into the cot, pulled up the wool
covers, and fell fast asleep.
A JP between
[Near the Surgeon's cockpit and doctor's quarters]
Once Marie was settled in her temporary room, Aubrey made his way back to his quarters, got dressed in his other clean
uniform, and coat, minus his hat and headed towards the deck. He stopped several midshipmen having them put the surgeon's
cockpit back in order. "And be careful with the surgical instruments." he cautioned them.
With that task assigned, Aubrey continued on his way up top.
[On the quarterdeck]
O'Mally read Francois the Articles of War and when he finished, he barely managed to keep his jaw from dropping open when he
heard Francois words.
"I will obey your orders, Captain. But nothing can make me fight and kill my own countrymen," Francois agreed but he wanted
the captain to know there were limits to his obedience.
O'Mally had to admit, the young man certainly had courage in standing up to the Captain.
He was further amazed when he saw Lt. Rutherford step up on to the deck.
"Lt. Rutherford, ye're awake as well!" Patrick called out to Aubrey.
Aubrey nodded to Patrick, that movement hurt but he wasn't going to show that it did.
He noticed that the Captain as well as Burke were present, on the quarterdeck, the Capain talking quietly to a young man he
didn't recognize. Where did this young man come from?
His gaze went skyward to where the Ta Gallant mast was missing. He'll have to find out what happened after the jack block hit
him.
Aubrey saw Andrew and nodded towards him.
Men started coming up to the deck to relieve those who needed to get their rest time. And word spread like wildfire mentioning
that the Captain was alive and well. A cheer rose up when he was seen on the quarterdeck.
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Lupe
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#322
05-12-2010, 09:57 PM
With the changing of the watch all hands were on deck, this was Ruben's chance to address the crew without waking any of
them up.

He looked at O'Mally. "If your done reading in our budding mutineer then call all hands, I will address the crew."
The whistles trilled and the crew assembled on the main deck right at the break of the Quarter deck.
Ruben looked at Burke, "I need your shoulder son."
"Aye Sir, shoulder coming right up." Burke walked next to the Captain and offered his support.
Ruben stood and gasped as his ribs moved. He put his arm around Burke's shoulder. "Set a heading for the rail lad." Then he
started walking that direction.
Burke helped the Captain to the rail.
Captain Williams looked out at his seamen, the crew looked up at him. "Men..." he breathed a little bit, while the spasm across
the wounded rib tried to steal his breath away. "I am proud of each and every one of you. Earlier this year the Terpsichore went
up against the Santísima Trinidad mounted 136 guns, and did herself credit. Today... tonight she held true to her reputation and
faced two seventy-fours, mauled one and got away with almost no damage."
The men cheered at this.
Ruben looked at them with a pleased expression, "Our orders don't allow us to go back to England for repairs, so we will set up
our best jury rig tomorrow. But for tonight we will sleep in shifts and keep an eye on the Frogs to the leeward while we sail to
windward of them. Dismiss the men Mister O'Mally."
He turned to Burke, "lets go to the Cabin, I got to lie down."
"Aye Sir." Burke began to help the Captain to his Cabin.
Down the ladder and through the door, every step a pain to Ruben but they finally made it to the sleeping cabin. Ruben looked at
Burke as he settled back in his cot. "Thank-you Mister Burke, you have done a good job, catch some sleep, tomorrow will be a
long day again."
"Your Welcome Sir. I'll try to get some sleep. Is there anything I can get you before I go to bed?" Burke asked.
He was asking in vain, Ruben had already fallen asleep and was snoring lightly.
Burke was surprised at how quickly the Captain could fall asleep, since his pain looked like it would hurt to much to sleep so
quickly. He pulled the covers up over the Captain and hoped he would be okay.
He wearly made his way to his own hammock, and flopped into it, he was so tired but what he had been through today was
something he had never seen before. He closed his eyes, but the visions of the day kept replaying.
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Linette Geraud
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#323
05-13-2010, 06:22 PM
Aubrey moved out of the way and to where he could watch the Captain and hear his speech. By the way the captain moved and
the support Burke was giving him, Aubrey could tell the captain was hurt fairly badly. In fact he could feel his own injuries twinge.
He was proud of the men, he was proud of the Captain whom he served under. He was proud that this fine ship, The Terpsichore
survived the confrontation with the French.
His thoughts went back to what Marie had said, of being dropped off at Plymouth. She was going to be rather surprised to find
out, that she will be with them for a bit longer than expected. Feeling a bit winded, Aubrey found himself a spot out of the way, to
observe the workings of the men, leaving Foxall and O'Mally in charge of the ship for the time being.
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mgh_fond
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#324

05-13-2010, 10:02 PM
The captain had finished with him abruptly. Before Francois asked what he should do next, he was then read the full Articles of
War. It was long and detailed...before the man was even halfway thru, the French youth had already forgotten much of the
details even if he did catch the gist of it all. There certainly were enough 'punishable by death' outcomes in that document.
He had meant what he had said to the English captain, he would obey orders and do his shipboard duties to the best of his
ability but if it came to taking up arms and killing Frenchmen, he would simply not do it. Punishable by death or not.
They allowed him to stay on deck with the rest of the assembled crew and listen to the captain's speech to the men. Francois
didn't much care for the man's words on the French but it was natural enough. In fact, he thought the captain had given a very
fine address. He could like this captain as much as he liked his own captain...well, except that the man was an enemy of his
country.
Once the crew was dismissed, a sailor led Francois down below decks to find him a spot amongst the sailor's quarters, as
cramped as on a French ship.
"You sleep in this one," the man pointed to a sleeping sling hung between supports, one of so many.
"Yes, is there a blanket?" Francois dared to ask.
"Not for you, frog!" another sailor snapped and glared, stepping closer.
"Not sure why the cap'n bothered savin' the likes of you, frog. But you won't last long , rest assured. We'll be bidin' our time and
then we'll do you in," the sailor smirked.
"I took the oath, I'm crew now," Francois pointed out though he definitely did not feel like crew, just a prisoner.
"Oath don't change anythin', frog. We lost a few good lads today to you French and we'll get our revenge, mark my words," the
sailor gave a cold laugh.
What could Francois say? Other sets of eyes were looking at the pair of them and waiting. He simply backed down and crawled
in the hammock. It would not be an easy sleep.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#325
05-15-2010, 08:57 AM
Having no mercy for anyone, after two hours, some sailor woke up Sam rudely. The boy absolutely had no idea how he ended
up on his hammock. Yet, his hat on his head and with sleepy eyes he followed the sailor to the main deck. To his surprise he saw
Captain Williams standing near the rail leaning heavily on Burke. But at least the Captain seemed alive and he listened carefully
to what he had to say. Hearing his uncle say that the ship got away with almost no damage, the faint smile on his face
disappeared. But as all the other seamen started to cheer, he cheered along.
As the Captain left, Sam looked around, wondering what he should be doing next. Then he spotted Mister Rutherford, it seems
the man was okay too and that meant it would take a while before Sam would have to take command of the ship again. Not that
he was complaining, he wasn't any wiser now as he was a few hours ago, where he just had repeated the words of the Master
Sailor out loud.
He walked a bit closer towards Mister O'Mally and Mister Foxall and took in the orders the men were giving. If he wanted to learn
something on the ship, he'd better keep his eyes and ears open.
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Lupe
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#326
05-16-2010, 09:36 PM
ding-ding

Two bells in the Morning Watch. The Idlers were called, the deck had to be washed, it didn't mater that they had been up most of
the night, it didn't mater that there were scars from masts and spars falling on deck, it didn't mater that the blood on deck was
still sticky.
The sailors made sure to push and shove Francois to the deck and put a holystone in his hand. The petty officer told him, "scrub
the deck" and offered a ropes end for any backtalk.
The pump wheezed to life and started flooding the deck with seawater. Middle of winter, before sunrise and they flooded the
decks and started scrubbing them with the stones, the men came afterward with mops and squeegees to mop the sand and
wood off the deck, the men after that flogged the deck dry.
The sun must not rise and be offended by shining on a dirty deck.
The Officers moved to stay out of the wet as the tide moved from the forecastle across the main deck and the gangways to the
quarterdeck, the ship always being worked, lookouts reporting, sails being adjusted.
The Sailing Master Erasmus Bunts had the watch, he had kept Sam on deck to make him the mate of the Watch for his shift.
A ship's boy whispered, "Captain coming on deck." from the shadows.
Bunts stepped over to Sam, "look alive boy, Captain." He growled quietly.
Another boy ran to the Wardroom and told anyone awake there, "Captain's on deck."
Ruben slowly came onto the deck and looked up at the sails, and forward then backward, he looked to windward and leeward.
He watched his crew as they worked, you could tell a lot about your crew, and how they work. His were talking, joking, and he
heard laughter once or twice. He was glad, a crew that would joke and laugh was a happy crew, and that was the only efficient
fighting weapon.
It was worth loosing a ta'gallant and royal mast to blood the men, and since they had been out gunned even the deaths and
damages done were as nothing. He looked at the line of sewn up hammocks, the dead to be buried later this morning. Well,
maybe not the deaths, but he knew the crew would bear them, and quite a few more for the damage they had served the French
ships.
Ruben leaned on the rail, his side hurt pretty bad still, his arm too, but his head was only a dull throb. "I would like some coffee,"
he said casually, he knew Burke would be told and would bring some of his very good coffee as fast as he could make it.
The sun was just peaking over France.
ding-ding ding-ding
Four bells and the hammocks started coming up on deck. The Petty Officers were watching that they were lashed up and stowed
by the numbers in the hammock netting on the sides of the ship.
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mgh_fond
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#327
05-17-2010, 10:28 PM
A new day and now he was being put to work, Francois was told to report on deck. Once there, they handed over a holystone to
him. An officer told him to begin scrubbing the deck. Francois opened his mouth to ask something but the man then warned him
he would feel the lash of ropes if there was any backtalk. The youthful Frenchman simply shut up and went down on his knees.
It was hard going, though his hands were not soft - he'd been on a sailing vessel long enough to do his share of hard manual
labor, the stone ground on his hand even as it sanded the timber planks. Still, he did not shirk, he'd give them no excuses for any
further ill treatment but do his best to pull his weight when it came to duties.
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Linette Geraud
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#328
05-18-2010, 12:44 AM
Another boy ran to the Wardroom and told anyone awake there, "Captain's on deck."
Aubrey looked up from his breakfast and nodded towards the boy. He finished chewing the last bite of his food and stepped
away from the table, wiping off his lips. Today was a new day, Aubrey hoped that the fog had completely burned off with the
morning's light. His head was too much in a fog the night before to really take notice and had sent himself back down to his
room. Straightening his uniform, Aubrey made his way topside. To his delight, the sun was shining and the crew seemed to be in
a good spirits inspite of the events last night. Aubrey looked around for the Captain; seeing where he stood the First Lieutenant
walked over and stood next to him.
"Good morning, Captain Williams, 'tis nice seeing the sun's light." he greeted him.
Last edited by Linette Geraud; 05-18-2010, 08:50 AM.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#329
05-18-2010, 01:52 PM
So far Sam had managed to stay awake, he had stiffened a few yawns here and there. And now he was watching how the men
started to clean the deck. He was glad he wasn't in their boots, his hands were still sore from cleaning the mirrors they had used
in the port earlier on. It was cold this morning and he whiped his nose. He stood up straight as the Sailing Master growled at him.
He didn't want to disappoint his uncle so he just did what Bunts said. He checked his hat and the rest of the uniform, took a deep
breath. Then he looked over the sea, squinting his eyes as the sun slowly showed up at the horizon.
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Firefly
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Posts: 219
#330
05-20-2010, 02:00 AM
ding-ding ding-ding. Four bells.
Marie opened her eyes slowly and the dim interior of the doctor's cabin gradually came into focus. She sat up in the cot and
rubbed her face with her hands. She had slept extremely well after her exhausting ordeals in the surgeon's cockpit the night
before, and felt much better though she was still a bit embarrassed that Aubrey had seen her crying, and in such a distraught
state. She wasn't usually one to be overly emotional, but the loss of her father followed by the horrors of the surgeon's cockpit
had challenged her in ways she'd not quite been prepared for.
With luck, she thought, they'd soon set down at Plymouth and she'd not need to face him again. He had seemed a fine
gentleman, and one that she would have preferred would have no cause to think poorly of her. But what was done was done.
It was cool in the room, and as she stood, she pulled the gray wool blanket from the cot and wrapped it around her. The doctor's
cabin, though small, was packed with interesting things: several books, a couple of lockers, two lanterns, an assortment of small
surgical instruments.
Running her fingertips along the edges of his books, she read the titles. There were a number of medical books, mostly in Latin,
but there were others on a variety of other books, some in English and even a book of French poetry. The good doctor had
obviously been someone who enjoyed reading. She felt a pang as she thought about the doctor and the manner in which he
died. It was surreal, the whole experience of the past few days seemed almost as a dream.
But it was not. Drawing a deep breath, she moved on and opened one of the lockers.
It looked to be mostly clothes, along with a couple of bottles of rum. Glancing over to the corner, Marie saw the bloodied clothes
she'd worn last night and decided they wouldn't do until they'd been thoroughly cleaned. Since she would need something else
for now, she let the blanket drop and pulled out one of the doctor's shirts -- the softest she could find. She slipped it on over her
head and laughed in spite of herself as she looked down -- it hung off of her, the huge billowing gray-white fabric looking not
unlike sails in a feeble wind. Rummaging around some more, she pulled up a slightly heavier shirt made of wool; something that
would cover her a bit more modestly, but which was also far too large, and would be scratchy against her skin.

Taking both shirts, she found a needle and thread among the doctor's instruments, and began sewing the softer shirt, taking it in
in various ways so as to fashion it into something of an undershirt. Finally, when she was finished, it fit her reasonably well. She
slipped it on, and found it to be comfortable, though clearly not sufficiently modest on its own.
The wool shirt was a bit more difficult to modify, but after working with it for some time, she had managed to arrange it into
something that was not outrageously large. Once it was slipped over the soft undershirt, she felt as though she had a passable
top.
She repeated the same idea with some leggings. Briefly, she considered trying to fashion a proper dress of some kind, but
decided that would be foolish, and since she was only to be on the Terpsichore for a short while longer, there would be no real
harm in wearing trousers. Although in normal circumstances, it would undoubtedly be deemed rather scandalous for a lady to
don such garb, these were not in the least to be considered 'normal circumstances'.
Marie grinned as she tugged the modified trousers on. They felt odd, but she somewhat enjoyed the feeling nonetheless. Once
dressed, for the briefest moment, she imagined herself a pirate, or some other such adventurer. She struck a pose, pretending to
wield a cutlass, and began to laugh.
"Marie," she told herself, peering at herself in the doctor's small looking glass, imitating her father's voice, "You are trouble."
She gave the mirror a bittersweet grin, not allowing herself to ponder what may have become of her father and governess, and
began to feel her stomach rumble. It had been a long time since she'd eaten.
Tying her tousled hair back with a string, she decided she was presentable enough, given the circumstances, to leave the cabin
in search of some breakfast.
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Linette Geraud
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#331
05-21-2010, 09:51 PM
Aubrey looked around for the Captain; seeing where he stood the First Lieutenant walked over and stood next to him.
"Good morning, Captain Williams, 'tis nice seeing the sun's light." he greeted Ruben, "You look none the worse for the wear."
"Good Morning to you also Mister Rutherford." Ruben said turning to look at his First Lieutenant, "I feel the worst for wear, I must
be getting old to not be able to shrug off a mast falling on me." He said lightly as he looked over the Executive Officer's face,
"you look like you were in the wars."
Aubrey gave a rather lopsided grin, "Indeed, I feel like it to a point. Miss Fournier did a fine job in patching me up, much the
same as you." his face sobered up as he continued. " I took the liberty of placing Miss Fournier in Doctor Richardson's quarter's
seeing that she needed a place to stay. Doctor Richardson will not be requiring it anymore."
Ruben nodded, "good plan, I trust the Officers of the Wardroom will welcome her to their mess." He looked around the now
lightening deck. "The carpenter and bosun are looking over the masts and rigging to see how much we suffered."
Aubrey nodded, "They will indeed, I do believe the determination and the work she did has impressed the crew."
Aubrey turned his gaze towards the deck as well, "I think we were most fortunate that we didn't take more damage than what we
had. "
Ruben nodded, "the fog saved us I think." The two men came up and took off their hats to make their reports.
The Carpenter spoke first, "The Main Ta'gallant broke two feet above the cap Sir, took the yards with it, I might can save the
Royal yard, it don't look sprung but the rest we will have to use the spares. The mizzen top took a few hits and I have my mates
woolding it right now. The hull is solid and other then a few musket ball and random chain shot marks the rail and deck will be an
easy fix."
"Thank-you Chips," Ruben said then, "start laying along the spars needed, right after breakfast we will get to work on hoisting it."
He touched the knuckle of his index finger to his head and headed off, the bosun was next.

"Sir, I have parties knotting and splicing, we took some chawing up in the higher rigging but I think we got off light, they were
aiming for the tops unless I miss my guess. I will have my mates getting the standing rigging set up for the new masts, we are all
most done with repairing the other damaged standing rigging already." The Bosun said with a smile and nod.
"Very good, make it so then." Ruben told him, then looked at Aubrey, "at this rate we will be ready again by this afternoon."
Aubrey listened to the report, and nodded "That is excellent" he smiled " and we'll be on our way to our next destination,
whatever that maybe."
Ruben smiled, "8 degrees South, that's all I know... right now, and I have a powerful urge to get there." Ruben nodded at the
neat row of hammock shrouded corpses, "we will have services today at two bells in the forenoon." He wondered if this was an
omen that foretold this whole mission, barely leave port and you are set upon by two French Men-o-War, he idly wondered again
if they had just been part of a breakout and happened on him or if they had came out just for him.
Aubrey nodded, "They were good men.' he said quietly,"I can scarcely wait to find out what the missive you received contains,
and I'm hoping that it will be a straight clear sail to 8 degrees south, we could use a bit of fair sailing. As for Miss Fournier, she
will need to be informed as to her not being set ashore as she had thought. Would you like me to do so or perhaps you, to
discuss the matter at hand?"
"It would be appropriate for me to do that." Ruben nodded, "I think I will let her have a breakfast and start her morning first
though."
Aubrey nodded, "Is there anything you wish me to attend to?"
Ruben thought for a moment then jerked his chin at Francois, "find out how much he knows about sailing, is it safe to send him
to a Royal yardarm. I am not worried about him damaging the ship up there, his mess mates would scrag him if he did, but I
don't want him falling."
Aubrey nodded. " As you wish, Captain Wiliams" he smiled. "And I don't want the young man to fall either, there's been enough
loss of men no matter what side they are on."
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Linette Geraud
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#332
05-21-2010, 11:52 PM
After leaving the side of the Captain, Aubrey sought out Francois. He spotted Francois scrubbing the deck, and strode up to him.
"You come with me" Aubrey said to Francois, motioning him to follow.
When sufficiently away from the rest of the men to not be overheard, Aubrey looked at the young man and asked. "What was
your position on your ship?" he asked in flawless French. " And are you familiar with working in the rigging?"
Aubrey watched the young Frenchman, wondering just how experienced he was.
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mgh_fond
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Posts: 6
#333
05-22-2010, 01:33 PM
Francois paused to look up from his onerous scrubbing duty when he noticed the shoes then uniform of an officer standing
above him. Now what?
"You come with me" Aubrey said to Francois, motioning him to follow.
"Yessir," the young man nodded then arose to his feet, relieved he could take at least a short break from this hard labor. His
hand was sore.

When sufficiently away from the rest of the men to not be overheard, Aubrey looked at the young man and asked. "What was
your position on your ship?" he asked in flawless French. " And are you familiar with working in the rigging?"
He couldn't help but smile, just a little, at hearing the officer speak such excellent French. How he wished he was back on board
his ship where everyone spoke it. But wishing did not make it so, he had to deal with reality.
"Well...sir, my position was ...the equivalent of your midshipmen here. And yes, I have been up in the rigging, we are trained in
many areas of the ship," Francois replied.
The lad well knew the dangers of working the rigging, next to battle that was the one job where more sudden deaths occurred on
a ship than any other duty. One slight mistake and one could hurtle down to one's death. He vividly recalled his last voyage
where he had watched, open mouthed, as a veteran sailor high up on the main mast had made one careless misstep and
crashed bloodily to the deck. He would never forget that scene.
Maybe he should have lied to the officer ????
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Linette Geraud
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#334
05-24-2010, 09:09 PM
Aubrey nodded to Francois, "Good, we will need you to take up that particular position. Make certain that you watch your step as
it can be rather dangerous. I'm certain that you all ready know that. " Aubrey replied.
"Do not be careless, loss of life isn't an option that we care to think of." Aubrey added. "I've worked in the riggings myself, so
know the challenges you face."
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Lupe
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#335
05-25-2010, 11:48 AM
Ruben straighten from the rail, "Mister Bunts, Mister Dunlahm, will you breakfast with me?" It was traditional in the service, if the
Captain kept a table to invite the Officer and Midshipman of the watch to eat breakfast, it was very early in the commission but it
would be a good start to a long time together.
Erasmus said, "we would be delighted to Sir," in his deep voice.
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mgh_fond
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#336
05-25-2010, 08:54 PM
Aubrey nodded to Francois, "Good, we will need you to take up that particular position. Make certain that you watch your step as
it can be rather dangerous. I'm certain that you all ready know that. " Aubrey replied.
"Yes I do," Francois nodded, though right now his sleeping quarters were also dangerous though he could not tell the man that.
"Do not be careless, loss of life isn't an option that we care to think of." Aubrey added. "I've worked in the riggings myself, so
know the challenges you face."
"I will do my best. Needless to say, falling is hardly in my best interest either," Francois commented.

"Sir, may I ask you a question?" he decided to take a chance.
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Linette Geraud
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#337
05-25-2010, 11:47 PM
Aubrey examined Francois face, trying to determine what the young man wanted then he nodded.
"Certainly Monsieur Vachot. you may ask me a question." Aubrey answered wondering just what Francois would ask.
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Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#338
05-26-2010, 01:31 PM
Whiping his nose again, but still standing straight, Sam briefly looked towards Bunts. If the Master Sailor agreed, it probably
couldn't hurt to join the Captain and on the other hand, if the Captain said jump, he had to jump. Sam nodded quickly, he'd be
out of the cold and get something to eat, that was always good. "I'd be delighted too, Sir," he said as he followed the Captain and
Mister Bunts, towards the Captain's Quarters.
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mgh_fond
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#339
05-26-2010, 10:02 PM
"Certainly Monsieur Vachot. you may ask me a question." Aubrey answered wondering just what Francois would ask.
The youth did not hesitate when given his chance, "Thankyou. I am curious about how someone like me goes about securing an
opportunity to talk with the captain. I do not know how it works in a English ship. I imagine there are channels and rules for such
a thing. Could you advise me?"
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Linette Geraud
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#340
05-29-2010, 10:09 AM
"On an English ship and actually any naval vessel, one would go to the petty officer who would take you to his Midshipman; who
in turn would take you to the First Lieutenant. If the First Lieutenant deems it worth taking to the Captain then it would be done. It
seems though, since i'm talking to you part of the process has been set aside."Aubrey had a slightly amused expression on his
face looking at Francois.
"Is that all you wanted to know or was there another question you had in mind?" Aubrey asked.
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mgh_fond
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#341
05-29-2010, 01:21 PM
Francois listened to the officer's explanation, it was indeed similar in the French navy, protocol needed to be served after all.
"Is that all you wanted to know or was there another question you had in mind?" Aubrey asked.
"Well....I do not wish to bother the captain....I mean I am grateful he fished me out of the channel after all," Francois shrugged,
looked around and noticed a few sailors watching this little discussion, no doubt curious. Whether they could hear was unknown
though.
"Perhaps you could simply hear me out and then pass my message unto him instead?" he had a new idea.
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Linette Geraud
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#342
05-29-2010, 08:52 PM
"All right, I'll hear you out." Aubrey stated, He cast an eye towards the glances of those curious and frowned at them, moving his
head to indicate to them to get back to work. They doubled their efforts.
"Ask away." Aubrey said with a nod.
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mgh_fond
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#343
05-30-2010, 01:57 PM
The British officer sounded quite willing to take his request seriously so Francois nodded, swallowed to moisten his suddenly dry
mouth and began.
"I do not imagine it would matter much after it already occurred, but if some morning the captain or any of your officers find that I
am no longer present amongst the ship's company, I can assure you I will have not either made some ridiculous escape attempt
- where would I go? Or jumped as a suicide. Some of the crew will have killed me and dumped me overboard."
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Linette Geraud
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#344
05-31-2010, 08:03 PM
"Mister Vachot, I appreciate that you brought this up with me. I will make a note of it." Aubrey said. "Now you best get back to
your duties." He had a frown of displeasure hearing this particular bit of news. Actions like that will not be tolerated.
With a nod, Aubrey strode away from Francois,after watching the men at work he caught the eye of the petty officer in charge of
the midshipment.
"Yes Lieutenant Rutherford." the petty officer asked.
"I'd like you to come with me to check on something with me below deck."
"Aye Aye sir." the petty officer replied, and went below with Aubrey.
Once they were in a private area away from any other eyes and ears,
Aubrey said. "Do I need to remind you and the others, that Mister Vachot is a pressed member much like the others. Any plans
of him accidentally falling overboard due to foul play will not be tolerated. Do I make myself clear? We have lost enough men all
ready. If he should meet an untimely death not of his making, there will be an investigation of the likes no one wishes to be a part

of, and the whole crew will be held responsible. Is that understood?" Aubrey gave the petty officer a cold, hard look.
"Aye Aye sir!" the petty officer replied saluting Aubrey.
"Dismissed." Aubrey commanded.
And the Petty officer left. After a short time Aubrey made his way back on deck.
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#345
06-02-2010, 10:52 PM
Francois was satisfied for now, after being dismissed by the British officer. The man had listened and seemed prepared to act on
it. Hopefully he would pass the matter on to the captain. Francois realized even if all the officers were sympathetic they could
hardly protect him every hour of every day. But it was a first step.
He then went back to work, ignoring some of the hard looks a few sailors gave him. Not everyone seemed to detest him though.
One older sailor moved on by, carrying a huge coil of rope over one shoulder and glanced down just as Francois looked up. The
man merely flashed a quick smile and moved past him.
Maybe he could survive this yet?
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Jon Allen
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Posts: 340
#346
06-03-2010, 05:37 PM
The Wardroom in the Morning Watch
The sun was rising above the horizon beyond the sails and rigging of His Majesty's Ship, the Terpsichore. The remnants of the
orange lighting dancing on the waves had disappeared, turning the sea into a blue and gray swirl of water and a few light
cresting waves.
Andrew had sat down for breakfast at the Wardroom table. He was exhausted, but it was nothing a good warm mug of coffee
wouldn't cure. The eggs and ham certainly helped as well. He would relish the food while it lasted. God only knew how long they
would have to subsist on hard crackers and salted beef once the fresh foodstuffs gave out.
Marine Lieutenant Thomas Carson, dressed smartly in his red uniform with his sword at his side, paced the deck.
A few men were scrubbing at the grime on the deck, which had a particular and distasteful red tint to it. Thomas worked to avoid
the working parties, and the yet-uncleaned portions of the deck.
The Officer received the salute of three passing sailors headed forward. Thomas nodded at them and proceeded aft. Thomas
had to bring his hand up to secure his Shako as a gust of wind swept in from the starboard side and nearly took the hat away.
Thomas reached the door to the Wardroom. He stepped inside and removed his hat. The expression on his face indicated that
he was pleased.
"Not a French Man-O-War in sight," he commented to anyone who would hear him. "I pray the plan worked and we see nothing
of Napolean's devils today."
Thomas headed for the Wardroom table, where he carefully adjusted his scabbard and sword before taking a seat. The chair
creaked under his weight.
"Ah, Good Morning, Mr. Carson. That is good news. How's the weather?"
"The Channel seems to be cooperating today," Thomas replied. "Seems like favorable winds."
"Excellent. Hopefully, it'll allow us to put some distance between us and the Frogs. Care for some breakfast?," inquired the 3rd
Lieutenant.

"I'm afraid Mr. Foxall, that my morning tour of the deck and the sick bay has expunged my appetite for the moment," Thomas
commented, the memory and smell of the blood still fresh in his thoughts. "I will join you at the table however and provide your
meal with some intelligent company."
Thomas headed for the Wardroom table, where he carefully adjusted his scabbard and sword before taking a seat. The chair
creaked under his weight.
Looking over his shoulder, Thomas said, "Private, where is..."
Before he could finish, a Marine approached, handing him a book, a jar of ink and a pen.
"Ah, thank you," Thomas finished. "Carry on."
Thomas set the unidentified book down on the table and opened it. Then he took the pen, dabbed it in the ink and began to
write.
"Keeping a record of our voyage?"
"Indeed Andrew, a record of a specific sort," Thomas answered, obviously choosing his words carefully. "As commanding officer
of the ship's Marines, I have a very specific set of responsibilities that require documentation."
Thomas tilted his head slightly, raised the pen above the page, turning the feather-end towards Foxall as he added, "For
example, here I document how much powder and shot my marines fired yesterday from the muskets and swivel guns. I also draft
my account of their performance in yesterday's action. My report will likely serve as a lasting judgment of the Marines. It could for
example, affect the opportunity for promotion among the enlisted men in the future."
Thomas added, "This sort of record-keeping is important. Especially if our voyage is long, the details of yesterday's action may
grow to haze in one's memory and such accounts are fraught with errors of recollection. Whenever we return to England I must
be able to hand a well-documented voyage to the Marine Division Officers, not to mention the Admiralty."
"Speaking of performance," Thomas added. "How did the men under your command handle themselves yesterday?"
"Well enough that we're still here." Andrew gave a wry smile. "I would have liked to do the Frogs more damage, but the mizzen
mast had something to say about that."
The door creaked as Marie unhooked the latch and pushed it open. Almost immediately, the smell of eggs and ham filled her
nostrils and her mouth began to water at the thought of food. She couldn't remember when last she ate, but it must have been at
least a full day, and she practically trembled at the thought of something as wonderful as an egg to eat.
Slipping out of the cabin in her newly-sewn makeshift garb, she closed the door behind her and followed the scent of the eggs a
short distance until she found herself entering the Wardroom, where she saw Lieutenants Foxall and Carson conversing.
"Excuse me, gentlemen" she said, reflexively dipping in something of a curtsey, "Forgive me for intruding, but I was wondering if
you could direct me as to where I might get a bit of food?"
Thomas and Andrew's conversation was interrupted when the young woman entered the Wardroom. Without thinking twice,
Thomas laid down the pen next to the open book and came to his feet. Andrew dabbed his mouth with his napkin and stood as
well.
"Good morning Miss Fournier," Thomas said bowing his head. "Mr. Foxall and I be delighted if you joined us at the Wardroom
table...just good lad has been acting as my faithful servant this morning and will see to your breakfast."
"Quite right, we'd be honored if you joined us." Andrew chimed in as well.
The young red-uniformed private who was standing against the Wardroom wall behind Thomas's chair recognized his cue. The
man stepped forward towards Marie and bowed his head politely. He didn't speak, but seemed to wait for Marie to address him.
Marie smiled gratefully to the two officers, "Oh thank you. I do hope I am not interrupting. I don't want to be a nuisance. If it would
be helpful, I could take my breakfast in the doctor's cabin."
Not sure what to say to the young man before her, she offered, "Good morning. A pleasure to meet you... my name is Marie
Fournier. I would be most grateful if you could provide a bit of breakfast to eat?"
"You are no nuisance Miss," Lieutenant Thomas Carson offered. "I know some of our lads owe you their lives for your care. We'd
be honored if you would join us at the Wardroom table."
The Private bowed politely, then headed off to fetch Marie some breakfast.

As the Marine left, Thomas said, "Please have a sit, someone with coffee should be along shortly."
Thomas politely remained standing until Marie sat down, then followed suit.
"I trust you were able to get some rest?" Thomas inquired politely.
Marie nodded, as she sat and slid her chair up to the table. "I did sleep very well, and thank you for your kind words, Mister
Carson. I did ... what I could, and I'm glad that I was able to be of some assistance to the wounded."
She took a deep breath and put on a brave face, trying her best not to remember all that happened the night before. The images
were too unsettling.
"Of course, when we set down in Plymouth, the men will require attention by a proper doctor but hopefully my efforts will hold
them in good stead until then."
While listening to their conversation, Andrew was struck by how attractive Marie was. True, she looked tired and a bit frazzled,
but there was a beauty there that couldn't be hidden was the ill-fitting men's clothing she had on. Indeed, the trousers and shirt
seemed to strangely add to her allure.
"I'm sure your efforts were more than adequate, Miss Fournier," said Foxall. Turning to his steward, he added, " William, please
get the lady a mug of coffee or would you prefer tea? I think we could scrounge some up if you'd like?"
"A bit of coffee would be marvelous, Mister Foxall. Thank you both so much for your hospitality. Surely I already owe my life to
you and your crewmates for rescuing me from that jolly boat, and to be treated to such gentlemanly hospitality as well is a very
pleasant and unexpected honor."
"I know ... or have heard, at any rate, that having a woman on board a ship is not considered very good luck. I hope that my
presence here will not lead to ruin." Leaning back in her chair slightly she grinned, "Though perhaps fate will mistake me for my
trousers and will pass us by unharmed?"
"Mere sailor's superstition, miss," asserted Andrew.
"At any rate," she continued, "I will not be onboard for much longer, I suppose. Do either of you happen to know when we are
expected to make port at Plymouth?"
Thomas paused at that question. He had a sense as to the answer, and if the Marine Officer was correct in his assessment, it
was an answer that Marie may not like, but ultimately where the ship traveled was up to the Captain.
"That would be a question for the Captain," Thomas replied. "Ultimately, he is lord and master aboard this vessel. As we avoid
the French our plans literally may change by the minute. I wasn't party to any discussions on the matter during the evening
hours."
As someone appeared with coffee, Thomas accepted a cup and a single lump. A gray curly string of smoke rose from the cup,
which rocked slightly as the ship rolled in the Channel waters.
Stirring the coffee with a small spoon, Thomas asked, "Miss Fournier, if you don't mind my inquiry, upon what soil do you call
home?"
Marie took her coffee, and thanked the private, cradling the mug in both hands to warm them. It smelled wonderful as she blew
on it softly.
She nodded as Thomas spoke of their shifting plans, and the possible implications were not lost on her. If conditions did not
allow the ship to flee northwest, she may be on this vessel far longer that she had anticipated. Perhaps even a week or more,
she thought, while they evaded the French warships.
The officers on the Terpsichore had been quite pleasant and welcoming to her, a fact for which she was very grateful. But she
found herself troubled at the thought of an extended stay on a warship. The brutal consequences of the battle that she'd borne
witness to had dispelled any notions of adventure she may have held. And though the officers had been nothing but perfect
gentlemen, the memory of the way the common sailors had stared at her when she'd first come on board still chilled her.
Suddenly, she realized that she'd been thinking and had not answered the Lieutenant's question.
"Forgive me, sir, I was lost for a moment in thought," she said, taking a small sip of the coffee. "I was born in France, as you
probably expected given my surname, but my home has been in London for nearly eight years."
Andrew had suspected that Marie was not English. Indeed, her family gave a broad hint, but there was something more.

"You have family there?" Thomas asked cautiously and politely.
Marie was perhaps unaware, Thomas wasn't just being social, he was also working. Security aboard the ship was one of his
concerns. That meant knowing and understanding the crew and all aboard His Majesty's vessel.
Marie half-nodded and half-shrugged. "Some. At least so far as I know. When we left I had two uncles and a few cousins that I
knew reasonably well before my father brought us to England. But I've not seen them for many years, and I don't even know if
they're alive or dead. The... revolution was not very kind to my family."
Perhaps it was because she had become more comfortable with the officers in the wardroom, but whatever the cause, Marie's
accent had slipped a tiny bit. While she still spoke excellent English, there was a small remnant of her mother tongue that could
be heard by careful listeners.
"So you're a royalist then?," inquired Foxall. A French royalist would add an entirely new dimension to Marie's allure. Andrew
wasn't quite sure why that would be the case, but perhaps he was attracted to the idea that although she was French and thus a
natural adversary, she was also the enemy of Britain's enemy. Of course, she could hold no political leanings and merely fled
France to escape the turmoil there.
As Andrew waited her response, he took a fresh mug of coffee that he set about doctoring with sugar and fresh goat's milk.
Taking a small sip of his adulterated brew, he was satisfied with the taste and setting the mug down, took another bite of his
ham.
Marie looked down into her cup, not quite sure how to answer. After a lengthy pause, she said quietly, "I was very young when
we left France, and I knew only what my father told me: that the revolutionaries were killing many people and that it was not safe
for us there." Her eyes rose and she looked at Andrew and then Thomas, "I miss the France of my youth; my childhood was a
wonderful time. I suppose others may have suffered under the House of Bourbon, but I certainly did not."
She smiled softly, continuing, "Honestly, I don't know if that makes me a royalist or not. I know little of politics, and only wish an
end to the bloodshed. England has been a good home to me." Looking back at the two officers, she said, "Whatever the politics
name it, my loyalties are with those who have shown me kindness."
As if to emphasize her point, the private returned with her breakfast, setting a steaming plate of ham and eggs in front of her.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#347
06-06-2010, 11:22 AM
Aubrey watched as repairs were commencing on the rigging then scanned the rest of the deck.Francois looked like he was doing
all right. As Aubrey surveyed things, he started mentally penning a letter to Priscilla.
****************************************
My dearest lovely wife, Priscilla.
It is the second day of our sea voyage and all ready it has been adventurous.We set off at night and a thick blanket of fog
enveloped us. The fog was a mixed blessing, in that we were able to slip away from the two French ships that were hunting us.
We found that we were between the two French Ships and exchanged fire with them. We did have a close call with the mast as it
fell upon the deck where the Captain, myself and young Timmy McGee were at. Unfortunately Mister McGee lost his life. The
Captain and I were more fortunate. It is a sad loss losing Timmy, as he was a bright up and coming midshipman.
But I do digress, we picked up a maiden in distress before we found ourselves between the two French Ships. She has proved to
be rather skilled medically wise, she took the place of our surgeon who had died during the battle. Perhaps someday you'll get to
meet her, as it if weren't for her, I would not have been amongst those that survived. I think you'd find a kindred spirit with in her.
and would indeed love to exchange ideas with her. Then again, perhaps I had best not introduce the two of you. I don't know if
the world could handle the both of you teaming up. You'd probably set the skies on fire with the ideas that may come about with
you talking. Her name is Miss Marie Fournier and seems to have the same type of spirit that you have. Time will tell only tell.
Enough about the ship though, I do hope that you are all right and that you will be able to live comfortably whilst I am gone. I
wonder where you will be living. Will it be with my parents, or your parents? And just how soon will you tell them? I know how
independant you are, strong willed, and very intelligent. A rather dangerous combination of which I wouldn't wish for anything

else. I do hope nothing diminishes that light that you have within you. I can hardly wait to see you when I return home. Currently
the sun is shining and the water catching its light creating a rather beautiful panorama. I do wish you were here to see this with
me, someday we'll get to be on the deck of a ship watching the play of sunlight upon the waves. Well dearest I will close this
missive for now but will be thinking of you. An perhaps when I come back from this voyage, I'll have a piece of music written just
for you and will play it for my sweet Priscilla.
All my heart,
your loving husband,
Aubrey Rutherford
**************************
Aubrey smiled, as in his mind the notes of a musical piece began to form. When his shift is done he will proceed to write it down.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#348
06-11-2010, 11:19 PM
John Rawlins came upon Francois as he scrubbed the deck. His stone matching the speed of the new recruit.
"So you're name's Francois?" He asked to start conversation. "What was it like finding yerself on another ship?"
John paused to get Francois' attention. "I know I'd be a bit worried, wonderin' if I'd be shot or sent back into the water."
"Hey, get back to scrubbing, we're almost done." said another midshipman as he passed by.
"We're gettin' there, just taking a momentary break." John retorted then set back to scrubbing. He got a bit of a grin, "I'll race you
to the rail." and began to double his efforts in the scrubbing.
< tag Francois >
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#349
06-12-2010, 01:49 PM
Gradually the young Frenchman noticed a man working right next to him, matching his pace perhaps quite deliberately. He
tensed for some threat or slur. But it wasn't like he expected.
"So you're name's Francois?"
"Ummm, yes, yes it is," the boy nodded.
"What was it like finding yerself on another ship?"
"Not what I had planned for but better than freezing to death," Francois admitted then he scrubbed a little more.
John paused to get Francois' attention. "I know I'd be a bit worried, wonderin' if I'd be shot or sent back into the water."
"Yes, true. Or other bad things," Francois made a rather ambiguous reply.
"Hey, get back to scrubbing, we're almost done." said another midshipman as he passed by.
"We're gettin' there, just taking a momentary break." John retorted then set back to scrubbing. He got a bit of a grin, "I'll race you
to the rail." and began to double his efforts in the scrubbing.
Francois looked the fellow over, he seemed genuine and more importantly, a decent sort. Unless it was a trap? He'd have to
remain cautious but.....

"Very well then..." Francois nodded and then began his own increased effort to scrub a path to the target rail.
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Linette Geraud
Senior Member
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Posts: 4429
#350
06-12-2010, 02:19 PM
The spirited scrubbing caught the eye of the other midshipmen, who were on the same side of the deck as Francois and John.
Not wanting to be bested by the Frenchman, they doubled their efforts too. John noticing this grinned, continued with his work,
matching Francois scrub for scrub. The railing was getting close.
Up on the quarterdeck Aubrey noticed the almost frenzied pace, on one section of the deck, he wasn't certain who was involved
in this until he took a better look. It was John Rawlings and Francois. and it looked like they were in a race and that race was
causing a ripple effect. He watched this competition with great interest, wondering how it will turn out.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
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Posts: 4429
#351
06-13-2010, 11:24 AM
John thought he was going to win, not paying much mind . He reached the railing with a trimphant."Ah ha!!" he said with glee
looking towards Francois.
"Its a tie!" came the voice of Petty Officer Danials.
"It is?" John replied, turning to look at Danials.
Danials nodded. John thought for a moment then put his hand out to shake hands with Francois.
"Put it there." he said with a smile."I'd like you to meet a couple of me mates,"He said nodding towards atleast two other
individuals. "This be Mister Miles Neville" pulling over an red headed boy with freckles on his nose. "And that there is Mister
Fredrick Standish," motioning for another boy with brown hair. " He climbs in the rigging."
Both Miles and Fredrick nod in greeting towards Francois. "Welcome aboard" they replied almost in unison. then laughed.
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#352
06-13-2010, 04:49 PM
John reached the railing with a trimphant."Ah ha!!" he said with glee looking towards Francois.
Francois had hustled as hard as he could and as he finished looked to the other man, "A close one, that."
"Its a tie!" came the voice of Petty Officer Danials.
"It is?" John replied, turning to look at Danials.
Francois just nodded, in truth he didn't care whether he had won or not, he was just very relieved to find out that not all the
Anglais sailors hated him.
Danials nodded. John thought for a moment then put his hand out to shake hands with Francois.
"Put it there." he said with a smile.
"Of course," Francois extended his own hand and they shook.

"I'd like you to meet a couple of me mates, John said nodding towards atleast two other individuals. "This be Mister Miles
Neville" pulling over an red headed boy with freckles on his nose. "And that there is Mister Fredrick Standish," motioning for
another boy with brown hair. " He climbs in the rigging."
Francois nodded acknowledgement.
Both Miles and Fredrick nod in greeting towards Francois. "Welcome aboard" they replied almost in unison. then laughed.
"Umm, why thank you....nice to meet you," Francois was still a bit unsure of this all though and wanted to make certain things
were quite clear as to his own peculiar situation.
"Are you aware of how I got on board this ship? I am ....French. From one of those ships you fought yesterday," he announced
bravely enough.
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Lupe
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Posts: 9349
#353
06-13-2010, 04:57 PM
Miles shrugged, "I'm an American they took off a whaler two years ago, we got a Pol that barely speaks English at all, two Jews
and a Moor, he is so black he is shiny. At least your white and speak English."
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mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#354
06-17-2010, 09:14 PM
Miles shrugged, "I'm an American they took off a whaler two years ago, we got a Pol that barely speaks English at all, two Jews
and a Moor, he is so black he is shiny. At least your white and speak English."
Francois smiled at Miles, "You are the first American I have ever met. Our two countries were allies once."
"Yes, I do speak English, luckily for me. My mother taught me. She once lived in England, she's Catholic though. But my father is
French. I also am French and I will not forget it."
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Linette Geraud
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Posts: 4429
#355
06-17-2010, 09:21 PM
"Just because you're now working on HMS Terpsichore doesn't mean you're expected to forget where ya come from." Fredrick
answered. "Ya can't change where you're from, its just good to be friends with some of us. Being on a ship is in some sort of way
a village or town of a sorts, so best to be able to work with each others."
John nodded. "And you stick with us, we'll see that you'll be all right."
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Lupe
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#356
06-18-2010, 12:48 PM

Ruben straighten from the rail, "Mister Bunts, Mister Dunlahm, will you breakfast with me?" It was traditional in the service, if the
Captain kept a table to invite the Officer and Midshipman of the watch to eat breakfast, it was very early in the commission but it
would be a good start to a long time together.
Erasmus said, "we would be delighted to Sir," in his deep voice.
Wiping his nose again, but still standing straight, Sam briefly looked towards Bunts. If the Master Sailor agreed, it probably
couldn't hurt to join the Captain and on the other hand, if the Captain said jump, he had to jump. Sam nodded quickly, he'd be
out of the cold and get something to eat, that was always good. "I'd be delighted too, Sir," he said as he followed the Captain and
Mister Bunts, towards the Captain's Quarters.
As they sat down at the table Ruben smiled at Sam. "Did you enjoy your first watch at sea? I know it was cold and dark, that with
the French out there it was no quiet picnic, but there is something about standing your first watch you will never forget, and later,
when you have more experience you will stand a watch as the Officer in Charge, that you will want to write in your journal."
Ruben knew he sprang guests on Burke, the poor kid had barely came out to join a ship, and no matter how smart he was, didn't
know the traditions of the Service. He knew right now Burke would be changing things for three instead of one.
Only after a while Sam realized his mouth had dropped to the floor and quickly he shut it. Enjoyed his first watch? He looked
from the Captain towards Mister Bunts and back to the Captain, they were joking, right? He had been tired from the start. It had
been cold, windy, dark and he couldn't see a single thing out there. Nor did he have any idea what he was supposed to look out
for in he first place. The ship had been shot at. And he was supposed to have enjoyed it? The unbelief could be seen on his
face.
"Uh, I have enjoyed it, yes," he managed to stammer as answer. Though he looked forward to one day have his own journal.
What would he have written in it, if he had one now? Just what he had thought earlier, he realized with a grin.
"I hope you are feeling better, Captain?" He asked as he realized he hadn't shown any concern yet about his uncle's wellbeing.
"Oh never better," Ruben said with a slight wave of his hand.
Sam's reaction didn't sit right, the boy didn't realize what he did last night. "Sam, you do have a journal don't you? You need one
now that you are a Midshipman, six years from now you will have to show it up to the Captains that are sitting on your
examination for Lieutenant." Ruben smiled, "by what I was told, only hours after leaving harbor for the first time you held
command of the ship, maybe for only a very short time but still."
Erasmus nodded, "Indeed son you did, you gave the order that saved the Terpsichore and her people from becoming a wreak
and captives of France."
Examination for Lieutenant? He already needed to think of something that would happen six years in the future? "No sir, I have
no journal, sir. But I am glad, the ship made it out in one piece. Otherwise I wouldn't have to present a journal to the Captains in
six years time," he said with a grin but that grin quickly disappeared. He had to be honest, he quickly looked at Mister Bunts and
then seemingly studied something at the table as he continued quietly. "I only did what Mister Bunts had told me, sir. I had no
idea what to do as I had never been in such a position before. I could have easily given the wrong order to your men."
Sam suddenly realized the importance of his words. If he had taken the wrong decision they wouldn't be sitting here around the
table having breakfast. Nor would the captain have any men left to give orders to.
Burke had a rough night, his nightmares of the battle had kept him awake, he never knew he could feel so tired. Burke placed
the hot coffee pot on a tray with cups, sugar bowl, milk pitcher and napkins. He did not make swans this time. He was unhappy
and wished he wasn't here anymore, this was not the adventure he thought he would have when he joined.
He made his way to the dinning cabin and the table, with the tray. Burke set the tray down, placing the cups in front of the
Captain, Master, and Sam, then poured the coffee. He plopped the napkins down in front of each of them, "I will be back in a
moment with your breakfast Sirs."
Ruben nodded to Burke, "thank-you Burke." He looked back at Sam, "that is part of being a good leader, listen to those around
you, know when to follow their advice and when not to. You will be learning how to sail this ship, and I will teach you to sail a
small craft, learn, make it a point to learn how to do everything on the ship, men will respect a leader that is willing to get right
there beside them and do... Do you want some milk and sugar in your coffee?"
Erasmus had poured a little milk and put a bit of sugar in his coffee and stirred it as the Captain had been talking. This lad would
shape into something good, if his uncle was in guide.

The captain's words confused Sam, follow other people's advice or not. When would he know when was the time not to follow
the advice? Or what if two people gave opposite advice? Who would he have to listen to then? And if he ever gave an order that
went against the opinion of the men, would they still follow the order or do their own thing?
"Thank you, sir, I'd like to learn everything that's needed to sail a ship like this." He took the napkin Burke had placed in front of
him and his hands almost automatically started to fold it. He quickly removed the folds and placed the nap on his lap instead and
answered the captain's question, taking Master Bunts' example, poured some milk in his coffee and two spoons of sugar. "Milk
and sugar, will be fine, thank you, sir," he said as he stirred the coffee and then waited for the Captain to drink first.
If this was anything like when he had to keep the captain company on the Longboat when going back ashore, maybe there was
a same ritual now that needed to be followed. Let the captain be the first or the last to start having breakfast. He scratched his
head in confusion. He had so much to learn.
"I understand sir, don't be afraid to do what your own men have to do. Show them that you know what it is, that they do to keep
the ship afloat." 'And write things down in your journal,' he thought to himself. "Am I allowed to write what I learn in the journal
too? Or would that be a bad sign? I've seen how the men needed to clean the deck early before the sun came up today."
Even though he was tired there was a glow in his eyes, he'd prefer it a lot more to work with the men instead of walking around
not knowing what was going on or what he had to do.
"Where and when do I start, uncle?" In his eagerness he had forgotten to address the Captain by his rank.
"You start by eating a good breakfast, Mister Bunts here will teach you navigation, my coxswain can teach you knots, sewing,
and embroidery work, the Carpenter will be teaching you about the wood hull itself, Foxall and the gunner will be teaching you
about the guns, the Doctor, Purser, Sailmaker, butcher, armorer, cooper will all get their whack on you, and I will be teaching you
how to keep this fragile little community afloat." Ruben drank some coffee, "if a body is willing to learn there is no end to what the
people around him are willing to teach in a King's ship."
"As for writing in your journal, that would be a very good place to make notes on what you have learned, not only will you have
them again if you need them, but also the Captain's sitting on your exam will see that you take your learning very seriously."
Ruben smiled and nodded, "but that's six years from now, by then you will be an acting Lieutenant, have acted as prize-master
on some kind of ship, and know how to do so many things you won't be able to think of them all."
Sam was a bit mesmerized by what he was going to have to learn. Every profession that could be found on a ship, he had had
absolutely no idea. But he had six years according to Captain Williams, so surely he could manage that. Even though some of
the things the Captain had named, where things his mother used to do at home and now he would learn how to do them himself.
Somehow it felt a bit strange. He turned towards Mister Bunts after taking another sip of his coffee. It felt good to drink
something warm after spending some time outside in the cold. "Navigation as in learning how to read maps? But how do you
navigate during the night, or even on full sea when there's no landmark to be seen? And what about my duties towards Mister
Rutherford?" He had so many unanswered questions.
Erasmus nodded, "yes you will learn to read maps, but there are no finger posts to tell you where you are. You will learn how to
tell where you are from where the sun is at a specific time, usually noon, or the moon, even where the planets are will tell you
where you are on all the trackless ocean. As long as you know where you are, have a good compass, map, clock and log line,
you can keep track of where you are going." He saw the incredulity in the boy's face, "It's true, it sound complicated to explain
but, well it is complicated, using spherical trigonometry you can find right were you are, if you know the time here and where you
started. In my day cabin you will find three clocks, all three are set to London time, which right now is the same time as we are
in, so they will be right for local time, but if we sailed to Ireland they would not be right for local time any more. If we found out
what noon is where we were, say in the cove of Cork, then do a little math and we could figure out how far we were from
London. It's the same when you are out at sea and can't see land at all."
The Cook had burnt the toast and Burke had to remake it himself, he guessed maybe the cook had nightmares too. No mater,
the breakfast was done.
Burke placed the three plates of food on a tray with another pot of hot coffee. He carried it into the dinning cabin, and placed the
plates in front of the three Officers. He picked up the empty coffee pot, replacing it with a full one. Burke then carried the tray and
coffee pot out of the Dinning Cabin.
He began his duties cleaning the dishes and the coffee pot. He would give them time to finish their meal before gathering the
dishes from the table. He tried to stay out of the Captain's way as much as possible, unless they rang for him. He would be
listening for a bell.

Burke remembered the servants in his parents home, he tried to mimic them, they always came when the bell was rang. Now he
knew how they felt, he wasn't sure he liked it much. He was learning much more then he wanted to learn about things.
Sam frowned as he nodded towards Mister Bunts, he did understand the time but the rest still seemed complicated. When Burke
brought the food, Sam quickly picked a piece of toast and started to eat, he was famished. This tasted so much better than the
food he had been eating in the mess. Or maybe it were just his thoughts. Once he settled most of his hunger and his plate was
almost empty, he asked, "Does anyone have a spare journal I can use? I think I have already a lot to write down."
"I keep a few extra books in case I fill mine up or just general need." Ruben smiled and told him. "I will let you have one once we
get a chance to dig it out of my personal stores." He started on his bacon and eggs, the pot of grape preserves was on hand so
Ruben put a good amount on his toast before pushing the stoneware pot toward Sam.
Erasmus ate his food and sipped his coffee, he had never been comfortable eating in front of his Captains or Senior Officers,
and avoided fancy dressed dinner parties at all costs, as a Sailing Master, unlike the Lieutenants and Captain, he was not invited
to many parties to avoid and that was fine with him. He made sure to hold his fork in the genteel way he had been taught and not
to wolf his food down.
Sam wondered if he'd get a breakfast like this every morning, if he'd keep the last watch of every night. He picked another piece
of toast and placed some of the grapes on it before he devoured the toast. He felt like he could eat a horse. Once his mouth and
his plate was empty, one of the lessons he had learned from his mother, he said, "Thank you Captain. I will do my best to learn
everything. And I'm sure while performing my tasks with Mister Rutherford, he'll be able to teach me more too." He drank the rest
of his coffee and tried not to burp as the food settled into his stomach.
Mister Bunts finished his coffee, he had also cleared his plate. He looked at the Captain, he had also finished his breakfast.
Bunts knew the Captain had quite a bit of work and that they could not sit and use his time. "Captain, thank-you for the
Breakfast," he said as he stood, "I must take my reading and prick the charts before I turn in, and this one needs a little beauty
rest, so he can stand his next watch in eight hours."
He stood and gently pulled Sam up. "Lets go me boy."
Sam quickly got up under the pressure from Mister Bunts. "Thank you, Captain." He uttered before he left the Captain's quarters.
He looked up, towards Mister Bunts, completely unaware he should be getting some sleep instead. "Can I watch how you prick
the charts, Mister Bunts?" He asked, having no idea what it meant.
Edit Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#357
06-18-2010, 10:52 PM
"Just because you're now working on HMS Terpsichore doesn't mean you're expected to forget where ya come from." Fredrick
answered. "Ya can't change where you're from, its just good to be friends with some of us. Being on a ship is in some sort of way
a village or town of a sorts, so best to be able to work with each others."
"I do agree. We all need to pull together so the ship does not sink in a storm or some such misfortune. I am willing to do my
share of duties," Francois nodded.
John nodded. "And you stick with us, we'll see that you'll be all right."
"Thank you, I appreciate the offer," Francois smiled but then just had to ask one more thing though.
"You being an American, what if this vessel were to engage in combat with an American ship? Would you fight against your own
people? I know I could not fight my fellow Frenchmen, no matter what threats their code of conduct promises."
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#358
06-20-2010, 02:09 PM

Patrick arrived on deck, and smiled at the fact that the sun was shining. He looked around seeing that the deck was all cleaned
and ready for the day. He made his way up to the quarter deck and nodded towards Aubrey. "Mornin' Mister Rutherford,
mithanks for the extra sleep."
Aubrey turned and grinned seeing Patrick. "Good Morning, Mister O'Mally, I didn't mind taking your watch, the lads there got into
a bit of a contest, got the deck scrubbed fairly quickly." he chuckled.
Patrick laughed,"Tha's good. How's the new boy working out?" he asked.
"He's doing all right, it looks like he's making friends with some of the other boys there, a good start for him." Aubrey answered.
"How are things in the wardroom?"
"They are fine, Mister Carson, Mister Foxall and Miss Fournier were having breakfast together, Mister Carson was writing in his
journal documenting what happened yesterday."
Aubrey nodded, "I'll have to get with them and hear about what happened from them."
"Speaking of Miss Fournier, she wishes to speak with the Captain if he is free." Patrick commented.
"I had spoken to the Captain in reference to Miss Fournier, he wished to wait until she was finished with her breakfast and was
done with her morning routine before he spoke to her." Aubrey answered.
"Well from what I could tell, Miss Fournier is finished with all of that. I'll take over on the watch now Mister Rutherford, t'wouldn't
do you any good to over-exert yourself, and you do need to get things movin' along for Miss Fournier."
Aubrey raised an eyebrow towads Patrick,then grinned, touched by Patrick's fussing. "I appreciate your concern, Patrick."
placing a hand upon his shoulder. "I'm all right but I do need to get ship's business done and Miss Fournier is part of that. Many
thanks my friend, and it will also give me a chance to give my greetings to Mister Carson and Mister Foxall as well. One more
question did you find the present I left on your cot?"
Patrick nodded. "It got tucked away, safely."
Aubrey nodded and headed down to the wardroom.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#359
06-25-2010, 11:46 PM
Miles looked at Francois, "I'd not be shootin' at my country man but I'm not about to let them kill me either. It would actually be a
fight for survival.I don't think you're going to just stand there and let your countryman shoot you would you? Ya gotta do what you
can to survive and hopefully get back home. If you understand what I mean." he said.
JOhn nodded. "In the heat of battle the men aren't going to take time to ask if you are American, French, Moor or Jew, they will
just see the ship you are on and will attack. There are Englishmen who have been captured by the French and are pressed into
service. I'm not saying to give up how you feel but, don't go out of your way to be a hinderance either. I don't know, stuff like this
can get kinda complicated."
Quote Flag
mgh_fond
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 6
#360
06-28-2010, 09:39 PM
Miles looked at Francois, "I'd not be shootin' at my country man but I'm not about to let them kill me either. It would actually be a
fight for survival.I don't think you're going to just stand there and let your countryman shoot you would you? Ya gotta do what you
can to survive and hopefully get back home. If you understand what I mean." he said.

"I understand what you mean but I will never fire at my countrymen. Of that much I am certain," Francois declared quite calmly.
If it came to a boarding struggle and melee, his intentions would become much more risky if someone attacked him with a
cutlass or boarding pike. But he would worry about that when the time came.
JOhn nodded. "In the heat of battle the men aren't going to take time to ask if you are American, French, Moor or Jew, they will
just see the ship you are on and will attack. There are Englishmen who have been captured by the French and are pressed into
service. I'm not saying to give up how you feel but, don't go out of your way to be a hinderance either. I don't know, stuff like this
can get kinda complicated."
"I will be a good mate, pull my weight, do what is ordered of me.....except if it comes to a battle with the French," Francois
wanted to be honest.
"Perhaps we should not talk about such things now..."
John nodded, looking towards the other lads, "Yeah best not to talk about this anymore." He looked towards where Patrick was
standing, "Well we'd best find out what we're gonna do next."
Miles and Fredrick nodded.
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#362
07-06-2010, 10:28 AM
Thomas, Andrew and Marie were seated around the Wardroom table. Thomas still had an open book in front of him with a bottle
of ink and a pen in-hand. Andrew and Marie were eating their breakfast while the three discussed Marie's history.
Thomas contemplated a moment while others ate, then asked, "I'm curious Marie, your ship was coming to England then? Or did
you come from England bound for some other destination?"
Realizing his questioning was perhaps a bit direct, Thomas smiled and added, "I'm merely curious as to the extent of your
travels. I myself for example have never ventured farther than England's coastal waters."
Marie sat up a bit straighter, realizing that in her zeal to eat the ham and eggs before her, she'd hunched a bit and had nearly
forgotten that she wasn't alone. Smiling a bit sheepishly, she covered her mouth with her hand and finished chewing.
"I'm sorry," she said, cheeks a bit flush, "Forgive my rude manners. Were my governess here, she would have rapped my
knuckles at least four or five times already this morning."
"My father and I were in Scotland, where he had some business to attend to." Her tone shifted slightly, becoming more serious
as she continued, "We were bound for Plymouth on board the English ship Albacore when we were set upon by French
privateers."
Patrick woke up to the scent of food and his stomach rumbled. He dressed in his uniform, brushed back his red-hair and stepped
out into the wardroom, right after Marie mentioned how she came to be in the channel
"Mornin'." Patrick greeted those seated around the table. He seated himself down at the table and food was brought to him along
with some coffee. "Mmm thankee" He said with a nod.
Noting the book in front of Thomas, Patrick motioned towards it with his fork,"Writin' something down? Hopefully I didn't interrupt
anythin'" he commented.
"Good morning Mr. O'Mally," Thomas said as the man entered the Wardroom.
Looking down at his own book briefly, Thomas explained, "You weren't interrupting, I was merely updating my log for the Marines
in light of yesterday's action. Marie was telling us of her voyage prior to joining our vessel."
Setting the feathered pen down, Thomas asked, "Is there any news to be had? How is Mr. Rutherford?"
Patrick nodded towards Marie in greeting and smiled. Turning back towards Thomas he answered.

"I received a message from Mr. Rutherford before I retired for the night that he'd be taking my watch as part of paying back the
favor he owed me. He is doing well, and the Captain is doing better, and very obliged to Marie here. " He added some sugar to
his coffee and took a drink from it, muffling a belch behind his hand. "Excuse me." he said.
Marie nodded and smiled as she downed a few more bites of breakfast. The eggs and ham were indescribably delicious, and
she found it nearly impossible to maintain any sort of 'ladylike' manners. She decided that 'marginal' manners would just have to
do in the current situation.
"I'm very glad to hear that they are doing well," she said, stabbing another bit of salted ham with her fork. In spite of the men's
hospitality, she felt like a bit of an intruder in the wardroom and hoped that they would feel free to talk amongst themselves as
she finished her breakfast.
Patrick dug into his food, feeling rather hungry, when his appetite was somewhat sated, he paused before taking another bite,
"So Marie, where were you coming from? I'm afraid I missed that part due to my late arrival."
"Scotland," Marie answered, as she wiped the edges of her mouth with a cloth, "I was there with my father where he had some
business to attend to." Looking a little bit sheepish, she continued, "I had convinced him to let me travel with him because I
thought it would be a great adventure." Looking down at her own makeshift attire and around at her surroundings she lifted her
eyebrows and added, "I obviously had no idea what I was in for."
Patrick smiled at Marie then took another bite of his eggs. "No one ever knows what to expect while travelling on the sead.
Scotland eh? Mister Rutherford is from there, he might be interested as to where you were living. "
Turning to Andrew and Thomas, Patrick remarked, " Everyone did a marvelous job during that skirmish, I don't think we'd of
survived without the efforts of everyone. And Mister Carson, I'm still much obliged for the help in locating the Captain and
Lieutenant Rutherford."He raised his coffee cup in a salute to those at the table. "Here's ta all of you, and the ship, may we
continue on our journey and the winds be with us."
Raising his coffee, Thomas replied, "Here here!"
Thomas sipped his coffee, feeling the sharp bitterness and a slight burning of his tongue.
Marie lifted her own cup as well, and nodded, grinning. This scene was closer to what she'd imagined when she'd thought of
adventure on a sailing ship; the camaraderie, the looking to the days ahead with optimism and a sense of purpose. If it was her
lot to stay on this ship for an extended period, she decided that with men like these around her, it might just work out after all.
Thomas paused and then remarked to O'Mally, "I think Marie will want to speak to the Captain today, regarding our heading and
how it may affect her plans to go ashore in England. I myself wasn't present late last evening when the Captain resumed his
duties so I can't speak to his mind."
Marie nodded and said, "I would indeed like to speak with the Captain when it is convenient for him."
O'Mally finished up his breakfast and drank the last bit of his coffee. "I'll pass word onto Lieutenant Rutherford, but I'm fairly
certain that Captain'd be wantin' to meet with you as well, Marie." He wiped his mouth and got up from the table. "If you'll excuse
me, I'll go up top now and pass word to Mister Rutherford." with a brief nod, O'Mally left the wardroom.
Minutes later, Aubrey walked in, smiling to see Thomas, Andrew and Marie.
"Pleasant Morning, everyone." Aubrey greeted them "Miss Fournier, I trust that you slept well?"
Marie nodded, with a genuine smile. The breakfast with these gentlemen was helping drive the horrors of the previous night out
of her mind.
A cup of coffee was brought over for Aubrey and he nodded his thanks. Aubrey took a seat at the table. "How're things?"
Thomas looked up with a genuine grin on his face. His book momentarily forgotten, he set the pen down and said, "Good
morning Aubrey, I trust you are feeling well? I'm not afraid to say it was quite off-putting to see you in such a state yesterday. It
does me well to see you on your feet."
"It was by the good graces of God and the talents displayed by Miss Fournier that I am better. And I owe a debt of gratitude to
you as well, Thomas. I was informed that you found me." Aubrey answered with a lopsided grin. "Let me tell you this, don't get
into an argument with a Jack Block they'll win everytime." he chuckled.
Marie's face flushed at the remark about her skills. The notion of a Naval officer complimenting her on her useful abilities was the
kind of thing she had never thought possible, and it felt very good. She leaned back slightly in her chair, a slightly crooked grin
on her face. She kept her silence, not wanting to interrupt the men in their conversation.

Shortly thereafter, a young sailor stepped tentatively into the wardroom. "Excuse me," he said, nodding to the officers, "But the
Captain has called for Miss Fournier to join him."
Marie stood, wiping her face with her napkin. "Excuse me, gentlemen," she said to the assembled men, "Thank you so much for
the breakfast and conversation." Then, turning, she followed the sailor out of the wardroom.
Aubrey stood up when Marie went to leave the table, giving her a slight bow. "It looks like the Captain is ready to converse with
you." he said with a smile, then once she was gone he sat back down at the table and looked at Andrew and Thomas.
"Charming and delightful woman, my brother would find her both beautiful and intriguing. And I do as well but I am a happily
married man who's married to another woman who's beautiful, intelligent, intriguing as well."
He gets refill of coffee then stated, "We've been making good headway and the sails are pretty much repaired. Hopefully we'll
find out what our destination will be."
Thomas stood politely and offered a friendly smile as Marie left, then returned to his seat. He picked up the feather pen and
resumed writing in the Marine Officer's book.
"Yes a most pleasant woman," Thomas said kindly. His tone was honest, but it was obvious that Thomas's mind was elsewhere.
Perhaps revealing his thoughts, Thomas looked up at Aubrey and said, "Aubrey I've been meaning to ask, what you and the
Captain think of our cargo. I presume you've spoken of it."
Thomas added, "I can only deduct that it's to serve as payment to some foreign power from His Majesty. I can't help but wonder
if it's for a deal that has been signed...or a bargain we are to negotiate."
"I don't know, but I can say this much the handle was deliberately cut, just to let the contents be shown what we are carrying.
There is something going on and it has the scent of subterfuge. Its almost as if that was supposed to be happening and
someone was watching." Aubrey answered thoughtfully.
Quote Flag
Firefly
Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 219
#363
07-06-2010, 11:52 AM
[Captain's Day Cabin]
Captain Ruben Williams looked up from his desk of paperwork and called out, "pass the word for Miss Fournier."
The sentry at the cabin door called, "pass the word for Miss Fourier, the Captain passing the word for Miss Marie Fournier to the
Day Cabin."
The call was picked up by another then another till it rang around the ship...
Not long after, Marie Fournier was summoned and found her way to the Day Cabin. She found herself to be a bit nervous about
meeting with the Captain although she wasn't completely certain as to why. Perhaps, she thought, she just wanted to make a
good impression. The idea that any of the men on board would look down upon her was very troubling and with the Captain,
most of all. Standing outside the door, she straightened her makeshift clothes and hoped he wouldn't be too severe about her
somewhat unorthodox appearance. Then, she took a deep breath, tried to calm herself, and nodded to the sentry at the door. He
gave her a slight half-smile and a nod, then swung the door open.
"Captain, sir, Miss Marie Fournier is here, as requested."
Ruben stood as she came in, "Miss Fournier, thank-you for coming." As if the girl had a choice he reflected. He stepped around
his table that was serving as a desk and pulled out a chair for her, "have a seat."
Marie stepped in, and gave the Captain a respectful dip of her head. She had been wanting to talk to him for some time, but now
that she was here before him, she found herself unexpectedly nervous. Taking a deep breath, she accepted the offered seat,
"Thank you, sir. I was told you wished to speak with me."
It had been a straight forward thing to drop her in Plymouth but that had been before the two ships of the line and the wind shift,
if he got into Plymouth past those ships he would never get back out till the wind changed again. And he had been staring at her
while all this went through his mind he relized. "Ah, forgive my ma'am." Ruben Williams walked around the table and retook his

own seat.
"First of all, I would like to thank you for taking care of my men like you have, and me for that matter." He told her with sincerity,
"but I am afraid I have some bad news for you, I can't stop in Plymouth, I can't even slow down and send you ashore in a
longboat ma'am." He told her, then tried to explain, "those two rascals that attacked us last night are still out there, between us
and Plymouth, hell, between us and all of England... Pardon my language ma'am."
Marie listened, her eyes intent upon him as he spoke. She wasn't surprised at the news -- her earlier conversation with the
officers in the wardroom had prepared her for this -- but now that she heard the Captain confirming her fears, she felt it like a
stone in her gut.
She bit her lower lip, "I understand," she said quietly, "But then what is the plan for me, if I might ask? Are we to set down in
some other friendly port soon?"
Ruben toyed with a quill, "that might be a bit of a problem..." he said, studying the goose feather with unusual attention, "I am not
the master of my own movements," he finally looked up, "I am under sealed orders, I don't know where I am going or what port I
will be near."
He laid the quill down and folded his hands on the table, "I am sorry about this, I didn't know that we would be in this position
when I took you aboard, or I would never have told you we would be able to drop you back off."
Marie nodded slowly, her brown eyes wandering as she took in his words. "Of course," she murmured softly, nodding. "So I shall
remain on board then, for the time being?" She bit her lower lip. The officers had been wonderful, and she had truly enjoyed their
company at breakfast. Nevertheless, she was feeling a bit overwhelmed, and she found that she was more than a little bit afraid
of the ordinary sailors. It seemed that every time she walked past them, they stared at her, their squinty-eyed yellow-toothed
smiles seeming quite menacing. Also, the thought of any further conflict and the blood and horror that might result in the
surgeon's cockpit chilled her.
"If I might ask, where shall I stay? And what of ... bathing and other, uh... personal matters? I don't wish to be a burden to you, of
course, but..." she paused a moment, reticent to admit any weakness owing to her gender, but found it impossible to avoid
altogether, so she simply admitted the undeniable fact, since under the circumstances it was explanation enough, "Of course, I
am... a woman."
"I had not noticed." Ruben said dryly. "If you would be so kind as to take care of our people, to stitch us together when the
violence of the enemies tear us asunder, I could make you a Midshipman, and give you an acting warrant as surgeon." He again
fiddled with the quill, not meeting her eyes, "as for being a woman... you are not the only one on this ship, the gunner's wife is a
woman, last I have heard, and her cousin who is with us to help with the squeakers. No matter how much we claim otherwise, it
is not unknown for women to be serving on men-o-war's."
He set down the goose wing feather again, "if you take the warrant then you will have the Surgeon's cabin, his pay, and his
share of the food and wine in the Wardroom mess."
Marie grinned in spite of herself when the Captain remarked that he'd not noticed her gender -- she'd always enjoyed dry wit.
She was also somewhat comforted that she wasn't the only woman on board. Even if there were only three of them, somehow it
seemed a little less intimidating than if she were alone.
She felt quite divided as she considered the Captain's offer. On the one hand, the fact that he was offering her a real job -- not a
trifle, not something symbolic -- was invigorating and exciting. And she'd be able to remain in the wardroom, and the thought of
spending time with the gentlemen there was a great comfort to her. On the other hand there was... the blood and everything else
that she'd seen the night before.
Her eyes fell to the floor and she bit her lower lip for a few moments before nodding. "I confess that I am afraid that my
knowledge and experience may not be up to the task, sir, but I will accept the duty and will discharge it to the best of my ability."
Then, not wanting to forget her place, she added softly, "Until, of course, you are able to fill the position with someone more
suitable."
He nodded, "it's not likely that we will, they don't stand three deep on the Island you know, and that is the last friendly port I
would set you down on... if we are even to go there, I don't know even that much." He smiled and stood up holding his hand out
to her. "Welcome to the Terpsichore Midshipman Fournier... and Thank-you."
Marie rose quickly to her feet and accepted the Captain's hand.
"Thank you, sir."

She blushed at being addressed as a proper Midshipman, and a quick, full smile came to her lips. For the moment, at least, the
horrors of the previous night were only a dim memory, and she felt a surge of excitement as she thought ahead to what their
journey might bring. For better or for worse, she was on a true adventure now, and although it was not of her own making, she
was resolved that she would prove her worth.
He shook her hand then gestured to the door, "I shall not hold you up from your new duties, the surgeon's books should be on
hand also. That should help."
Marie smiled again and nodded, "Yes Captain, I will set myself the task of reading as much as I can. My first duty, though, must
be to ask you about your own arm, which we set in its splint in the cockpit last night when you were unconscious. We must make
certain it is set straight and not allowed to shift as it heals."
"It's quite alright, doesn't hurt abominably at all, I am sure it will be good as new." He told her before shaking his head, "oh, all
right, you had better check it, I don't think I am charismatic enough to follow that close on the heels of Rear-Admiral Nelson."
He pushed his chair away from the table and turned to the left so she would have plenty of room to work. He shrugged the coat
off his left shoulder where it had been hanging.
The new acting ship's surgeon furrowed her brow as she gently examined the Captain's arm. She did not remove the splint, but
examined the skin where she could see it, her fingertips lightly tracing down the length of his arm to see if she could feel
anything uneven; the arm was swollen, to be sure, and had numerous scratches, but otherwise seemed in reasonable condition,
given the injury he'd sustained last night.
"It looks reasonably good to me," she said after a few moments, "For now, anyway. It was severely broken when you came into
the cockpit last night, though fortunately your skin had not been punctured. As long as we keep it held straight, I think it will heal
properly. I will do a bit of reading on this subject and let you know if I discover anything of import."
"I am much obliged to you, and I shall do as you say." Ruben told her as he carefully put his arm back in it's sling. "It's rather
embarrassing to be one of the few casualties of last nights action. But then I guess I should be glad I was not the poor
Midshipman that had been standing beside me, what I shall ever tell his parents I don't know."
The Captain knew he could always fall back on the traditional lines but he knew Lieutenant and Misses McGee personally, his
old shipmate would understand, he had been on the sea and knew it's price but his wife... that would be another story altogether,
it was her only child and she had been against him going to sea in the first place.
Marie nodded, sobered at the mention of a the young midshipman who lost his life in the battle; a reminder of the grim realities
that would lie ahead for the crew of the Terpsichore.
"If you'll not be needing me, then, I shall attend to the wounded in sickbay."
"Yes, by all means." Ruben stood and offered to walk her to the door.
Once outside the Captain's day cabin, Marie smiled to herself. She was a midshipman! Not some passenger, not a helpless
flower to be doted over, not a girl to be dismissed as nothing more than someone to be married off to a wealthy bachelor, but a
midshipman! And as no less than the ship's acting surgeon!
In spite of the horrors she had witnessed in the cockpit, she found herself exhilarated at the idea that she'd earned herself a
position on the Terpsichore, and she was bound and determined that she would prove herself worthy of the trust of the Captain,
the officers, and the crew. Drawing deep breath, and smile affixed on her lips, she made her way down to sickbay to see to her
patients.
Quote Flag
Mevynn
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 1965
#364
07-09-2010, 09:13 AM
Sam quickly got up under the pressure from Mister Bunts. "Thank you, Captain." He uttered before he left the Captain's quarters.
He looked up, towards Mister Bunts, completely unaware he should be getting some sleep instead. "Can I watch how you prick
the charts, Mister Bunts?" He asked, having no idea what it meant.
Erasmus looked long and hard at Sam, then nodded, opening the door to his day cabin (a little cubby hole beside the Captain's
Cabin)

He pulled a scrap of paper out of his pocket, on it was a few figures scrawled in pencil. "If you are awake after the noon
observation I will let you work the dividers." He picked up the dividers and a little brass ruler, setting the divider to a two inch
span then showing Sam the scale on the chart (map) that two inches was twenty miles.
"This is the dead reckoning, our notes on what we sailed since we set sail. At noon we will take a reading of the sun and the time
and then we can figure out our true position." Erasmus pointed at an x "this is where we were when we hoisted anchor last night.
So that is where we start."
After being in the Captain's Quarters the room in Mister Bunts' cabin was rather cramped. Sam looked at the small piece of
paper Mister Bunts lay on the table. He recognized the dividers from school although he mainly had been allowed to use one
there to make perfect circles. He nodded as he understood the X on the piece of paper. "So once we figure out our next position,
we can figure out how many Miles we have sailed, using the dividers and the chart?" he asked. He still had no idea what time
had to do with it though.
Erasmus nodded, then shook his head, "no, it's the other way around this morning. We are setting our location by dead
reckoning. At noon we will find our true location and hopefully they will be the same."
He pointed at the paper, "we know we sailed this long at this speed and this direction," he adjusted the dividers and set it on the
chart from the x of where they started to a point in the channel that would have been just touching the land, "but the wind was
blowing on our side so we have lee way to account for," he moved the divider over, "and the current was flowing against us so
we have to account for it," he moved the divider away from the land more. "That is the first leg of our journey."
"You ordered us to turn about, to wear ship, that will set us to leeward and going the other direction," he made the appropriate
marks, "then our Gallant Lieutenant O'Mally, brought us back around before we could sail right into land," Bunts pointed at the
headland that had been in front of the ship then made the proper marks. "And we have been on this same heading for the rest of
the night, the tide in our favor means we give the readings about two to three more knots then we read." He did a little twiddling
and noting and then walked the divider down the channel.
"That will put us right here." Erasmus said, "within three miles, all that combat maneuvering tends to mess with the dead
reckoning." He smiled down at Sam, "at noon we will take the altitude and position of the sun, the position against London noon
will tell us how far east we are, since the sun will be straight above us before it is above London, and how far South it is in the
sky will tell us how far North we are from the equator. Since the only time the sun is truly straight above you is when you are on
the equator line itself."
Sam understood where he had gone wrong, the piece of paper showed in what direction the ship had been sailing and for how
long, since their last position on the map. And now with the notes and the map, Mister Bunts made an estimate of their location.
And next the Sailor would get a confirmation with calculating where they are, through the position of the Sun. Sam scratched his
forehead, the sun and the equator still didn't make much sense though.
"So who else makes these notes when you're not on the deck Mister Bunts? And how do you know how much the current and
the lee way slowed us down or drifted us in to another direction?" As he asked the question, the answer popped into his head, at
least part of the answers. "The compass! Keep an eye on the compass to know where the current leads the ship! So whoever
notes down the dead reckoning must also keep an eye on the compass and the speed." He frowned, "Is there an instrument that
measures the speed?"
Erasmus smiled down at Sam, "that is good reasoning but a little off." Then he pulled a book off the shelf, "in this area of the
world we know how strong and in which directions the current and tides are, we even know when the spring and neep tides will
be in the month, as for leeway, we can figure that by the wake of the ship, how far it bends as we are sailing straight. The Officer
of the Watch and the Mate of the Watch make notes on a slate every hour on the hour, every course change is written down and
when it happened, the speed is measured in knots every hour, didn't you wonder why we 'cast the log?' when you were on deck,
that is how we tell speed, you will learn how soon, because it will be your job to do it as the Midshipman of the watch." He
gestured to the chart, "and with all that data I can say we are here, within three miles."
Sam looked at the book Erasmus was showing him, next to some regions of water, and lots of numbers the thing didn't make
much sense to him. "So keep track of the info on the slate, write it down on a piece of paper and then calculate with the map,
where we are approximately." Unknowingly Sam yawned broadly as he finished, automatically placing a hand before his mouth
as his mother had taught him. This was more complicated as he had thought. And he still had to learn to pinpoint the ship's
position by just using the sun too. "So now we wait for noon." He looked up at Mister Bunts as yet another question arose, "But
what if it's clouded?"

Mister Bunts yawned in return, and shook his head. "You do have a lot of questions, and good ones too. If it's cloudy we can't get
a good reading, here in the channel might be a bad thing but then we can see shore before running into it, out in the middle of
the trackless ocean it won't mater, there is nothing to run into and we will keep sailing by dead reckoning till we can get a
reading, sun, moon, stars, or planets will tell us where we are so eventually we will know."
He yawned again, "now off with you, get some sleep, I have to get some myself. Do you want to be awakened for the noon-day
readings? I can have a ship's boy wake you up at seven bells."
Sam nodded vigorously, "Yes, sir, please sir." As he almost yawned again, he quickly closed his mouth, "Thank you Mister Bunts
and sleep well." He left the small cabin, took a deep breath of fresh air, and disappeared below deck. A few minutes later, this
time he needed less attempts to get into his hammock and tired of the lack of sleep, the elaborate breakfast he had had, and all
the information he had to take in, he was sound asleep.
----
JP between
Erasmus Bunts
and
Samuel 'Sam' Dunlahm - HMS Terpsichore
Quote Flag
Linette Geraud
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2009
Posts: 4429
#365
07-17-2010, 08:15 PM
The Terpsichore sailed on the two hundred and sixty miles covered in two days of sweet sailing, at noon of the second day
Captain Ruben Williams took the noon day altitude of the sun and smiled. 47.59,-7.80
He headed back to his cabin and opened his writing desk then took out a locked box made of iron pierced with holes so that it
would sink quickly if thrown overboard. He set the box on his table and opened it pulling out the sealed orders. "Pass the word
for the First Lieutenant," He called out then sat back to wait.
The word was passed and Aubrey quickly answered the call, knocking at the door of Ruben's cabin before he entered and
closed the door behind him.
"Captain I'm here as requested." He stopped his eyes taking in the box that Ruben had opened.
"Did you see the altitude of the noon day sun today?" Ruben asked pointing to the chair across from him. "Forty-seven degrees
and fifty-nine minutes." He smiled and tapped the neatly written words on the sealed envelope.
To Captain Ruben Williams of His Majesty's Navy
HMS Terpsichore
These orders are to be opened South of 47' latitude
Aubrey read the written words and grinned, then took the indicated seat. "I can scarcely wait to find out what lies within the
envelope. I've tried not to think of it and yet, couldn't help but think of it." he chuckled.
"As you can see the envelop is still sealed. Make a note of that please." Ruben said turning the envelope over to show the seal.
Aubrey took out the log and made a notation, watching the Captain and the envelope carefully.
Ruben stopped him before he could make a mark on the page, and grinned, "It might look a little damning to the suspicious
types if you actually wrote it down. I meant remember that you saw the letter unopened so if those same suspicious types ask
you can swear on your honor that you saw it."
Aubrey grinned back at him. "I was hoping to make a note of it." he replied.
He then picked up the letter and with a pen knife he kept sharp for cutting the tip on quills (where do you think the name pen
knife came from) he slit open the envelope and extracted the heavy parchment. Laying it on the table he started reading:

To Captain Ruben Williams of His Majesty's Navy
HMS Terpsichore
These orders are to be opened South of 47' latitude
Sir,
The EITC Sloop Dalfin (20 eighteen pounders) took a pirate Captain and crew after a long and bloody fight that resulted in the
pirate ship sinking. The Pirates rose on their captures and took the Dalfin. Then in the Strait of Malacca they took the British
Indiaman Ceylon,(a 50 gun, 1200 ton ship) but between the two battles the Dalfin was damaged badly so they took their prize
and sailed to Nicobar Islands where they beached the Dalfin and built a fort using her guns. They are holding the seaman and
pasengers of the Indiaman hostage and ransom while they refit the Sloop.
You are hereby required and directed to proceed to the Nicobar Islands in the mouth of the Strait of Malicca in the Indian Ocean
in all due haste.
You will Refit and refresh at the Cape then catching the Monsoon East, proceed to Nicobar Islands.
There you will meet with Dutch Pirate Captain Kees Piest and his company and you will take such steps as you see fit to secure
the release of the EITC Sloop Dalfin(20) and the British Indiaman Ceylon(50), the crews and passengers of said ships and any
other ships captured by said pirates.
You will then securing the Strait from more piracy and escorting the hostages and ships to Calcutta.
Hereof neither you nor any of yours may fail as you will answer the contrary at your Peril. And for so doing this shall be your
Order.
Given 10th December, 1797
To Ruben Williams, Esq.
Captain of His Majesty's Ship Terpsichore
By command of the Right Honble. Lords of the Admiralty
Philip H. Marsden,
First Secretary of the Admiralty
"So... that's what the gold is for, ransom to pirates." Ruben mused as he leaned back from the table.
"Pirates... we're going to deal with Pirates." Aubrey shook his head, he had dealt with pirates before. "we've got ourselves a bit of
work cut out for us, Captain."
Ruben nodded, "yes, the few brushes I have ever had with them has been bloody and harsh. But isn't that why you wanted duty
on a frigate? The glory and chance for advancement."

"Definitely, and I've had brushes with Pirates as well, off the Chinese shore. And the EITC Dalfin, wonder if I'll run into some
people I know." Aubrey commented.
"You have sailed with the illustrious East India Trade Company before haven't you? We face one of their 20 gun sloops and a 50
gun East Indies tea wagon, what are their ships like, I can't say I have ever been on one." Ruben asked.
Aubrey thought over his experience with the EITC, the ship he was on had 58 guns, she was slow but steady and could with
stand alot of pounding from those who wished to board her.
"The Indiamen are built solid, to protect the cargo and the passengers from being boarded by pirates or commerce raiders. I
think the maueverablity of the Terpsichore would work in our advantage against the Indiaman, but the sloops are fairly quick. The
men are a professional lot but can be brutal, and sometimes I considered them nothing more than pirates themselves running
under the flag of Britain with how they treat the natives they come in contact with. They do have the attitude that nothing can
touch them.Not all of them are like that but..they have their pride."

"I have seen the India-men sail but had never seen them fight. Pretty tough hull then? Maybe we should take a leaf from the
French Navy's book and aim for their masts and yards." Ruben looked at his orders again, "we are only a twelve pounder frigate
after all."
Aubrey nodded, "Yes pretty tough hull, and I will agree with you, taking down the masts and yards would be a good idea. You
and I have first hand experience, as to how much havoc that can cause."
Captain Williams looked blankly at him then it caught up and he threw his head back and laughed. When he finally finished
laughing he was wiping the tears away and said, "so we have, so we have indeed."
Aubrey flashed a quick smile, then remarked, "We'll get to refit at the Cape eh? Have you been there before, Captain?"
"Oh yes, was stationed there as an oldster, a Master's Mate." Ruben said with a reminiscent smile, "but that was a few years
ago. And you?"
"I've been there myself, it was quite the place." Aubrey replied, "A rather colorful place to visit." he smiled.
"But I would not want to live there," Ruben finished the old saw then shook his head. "If all goes well, it will be a quick refit, just
tighten everything up and re-reave the rigging. We might replace the Mizzen topmast, but it depends on how much the yard
wants to delay. I don't want to stay any longer then we have to."
"I concur wouldn't want anyone to mysteriously disappear, as what happened last time I was at the Cape." Aubrey said with
seriousness. "Several of the crew went off with some of the beauties there and weren't seen again."
"There is that," Ruben agreed, "but I was thinking of the hostages, Indiamen could easily have women passengers coming and
going on the Can-tong voyage, or Sydney." He looked at his First Lieutenant, "to be a man and a hostage is hell, but for a
woman..." He shook his head, it was usually a kindness to put your female traveling companion out of reach of the pirates but
that is a very hard thing to do.
Aubrey nodded in somberness, there was also the children who at times were passengers with their parents, their lot was even
more difficult, "I hope that there aren't any children amongst them." he commented quietly. Looking straight into the Captain's
eyes, "We certainly must make haste, the pirates will be brutal."
Captain Williams sighed, "they always are, aren't they. Well... let's see if this ship can fly." He stood up, put the orders back in the
box and then in his desk, locking both. "Now we know were we are going let's set every sail we can and hurry to get there."
Aubrey nodded and tucked away his log, making a note to write this adventure down at a later date, "Aye, Aye Captain Williams"
he answered. "And may we have plenty of wind in our sails."