Sunday 28th of May 1809

It was well past midday when I arose, mind you I wasn’t the only one, Mother and Arianne were very late in rising, so much so that Mother missed going to chapel that morning, a very unusual occurrence that, it put the servants right out of the daily tasks. I found also that my muddy clothes had been spirited away for cleaning, I have no idea who came into my room, but someone must have and left me sleeping.

So, at last and dressed in my old uniform I presented myself at breakfast or should I say midday meal only to revisit last night’s events with Mother and Arianne. About a quarter of an hour later, Henri was the first to call, still dressed in his smart uniform. He was followed immediately by Rose and Cassie who had walked over to join us, the weather being very clement. Then, much to my chagrin we had to discuss last night’s events over and over again. I was getting pretty bored with talking about it, there is really only so much you can say about a previous night’s party. The best thing for us was the fact that it looked like all our procurement and supply worries were over, but for the ladies it must have been who was wearing what? Or perhaps seemingly more important to them, what gossip was gleaned, or would that be too churlish of me to think such things?

Clearly there would be no work to do on the ship today, plus it was Rose and Cassie’s last day. What to do? It was Sunday and the shops were closed, so that avenue of amusement was closed to the ladies.
“If I had thought ahead and brought our riding habits we could hire horses and go for a ride!” Suggested Rose sadly.
“What a shame!” I replied sympathetically, “Oh too bad!” Secretly I was glad, I hate horses, I had enough bother the last time I was on one.
Then Mother chipped in, “It’s a fine afternoon, why don’t you hire a boat and go over up the river.”
The girls looked at each other and smiled, “Yes!” Pronounced Rose, “That seems an excellent idea.

“Better see what the Captain wants to do first before we make plans, I remarked trying to divert the prospect of heavy rowing up the river to one of lazing on the beach. He might just want to sit on the beach and relax.” I was aware that if we hired a boat, I knew who would be paying for it and it wouldn’t be Captain (short arms and long pockets) Clifford. So it was decided, we would go and ask the Skipper what he wanted to do on the girl’s last day. Although in my heart I knew that he would always do what Rose wanted and she seemed quite taken with being rowed up river, while she played the grand dame.

A few minutes later, we were leaving our side door as a group and stepping foot onto the near deserted street. Now it was just a case of walking around to Mistress William’s house and asking the Captain, but we never got that far, because coming around the corner all sails set was Captain Clifford on his way to visit us.

After the initial salutations, “What shall we do today!” Asked the Skipper rubbing his hands together.
Rose kissed him on the cheek and linked her arm in his. “Richard!” She simpered. “It’s our last day and I have a mind to go for a trip up the river!” She kissed his cheek again. ‘Mindless manipulation, he should easily see through her ploy,’ I thought.
Yet no, “Good idea!” Says he, looking at our faces.
“Wouldn’t you rather go on the beach? I would have thought you had enough of boats and nautical things!” He looked at me, then at Rose, who opened her eyes wide and looked up at him.
“No!” Says he matter of factly, “I think Rose’s idea, a good idea. Perhaps we can take some food?”

“Where are you going to get some food from?” I remarked, “Everywhere is shut, it’s Sunday.”
The group though for a moment and then Rose exclaimed, “I’m pretty sure Mister Campbell at our lodgings would be only too happy to prepare a basket for us.”
Henri was translating for Arianne, suddenly she exclaimed something in French. “She says,” Translated Henri, “Why not ask Madam Peddler?” So it was decided, the girls would look to procuring the food, the men to hiring a boat. We split up, arranging to meet later at the landing stage.

“I’m not hiring a boat, when we have five on our ships, sitting there doing nothing,” Stated the Captain as we three men walked over to the sea wall.
“There may even be one tied up alongside near the Watch House,” I remarked.
“Let us look then!” Added Henri suddenly changing direction and heading for the Watch House wall.

In fact there were two of our boats waiting to transport our crews to the ship in the morning. There was the Wasp’s Pinnace and our Whaleboat.
“I would have preferred our gig,” Remarked the Captain fiddling with the mooring line, “But beggars can’t be choosers! This will be an heavy pull for you two!”
“What!” I responded sharply. “It’s far too heavy for just two people to row.” I reasoned.
“I know, I know!” Sniggered the Skipper holding the loose mooring line in his hands. “I am just fooling with you!” He walked over to the fore moving line passing Henri as he did so. “Here hold this!” Stated the Captain giving Henri the aft mooring line.
Henri looked at it as if to say, ‘What do you want me to do with this?’
“No,” He continued, “If we row our whaleboat to the ship, we should be able to exchange it for the gig, before the girls return.”

“Look,” I expounded, “Why don’t we just hire a boat and crew, it will be far easier.” Well you would think I had said something sacrilegious to a devout priest. Getting on his high horse the Captain then gave me a lecture on being careful with money and how not to waste it on frivolities like hiring a boat when we had perfectly good ones waiting about. I was beginning to think that blow he had on his head has deranged him.
“I’ll pay!” I suddenly cried, testing the waters.
He stopped mid sentence, looked at me, smiled then remarked casually, “Well if you have money to burn, far be it from me to stop you!” Casually he looked at Henri to say, “Better retie that rope Mister!”
So that was it, now I was confident the Skipper was a penny pinching miser, either that or the blow on his head might just have affected him. I can honestly say, I don’t remember him this bad on our last voyage. I resolved to ask Doctor Hugget when he does eventually turn up. Yet putting all this to one side, I looked over the sea wall for any watermen that might be waiting for a fare.

I knew the Watermen would be working Sunday, this is the day they make their money from sightseers and visitors to shore. And there I saw it, about mid channel and heading our way. The black beaver hat that once belonged to Lord Waxenden. However, now it was adorned by a white swan’s feather. I knew it was sitting on top of the toothless pipe smoking Nobby Baxter’s head, so cupping my hands around my mouth I bellowed, “Nobby!” He looked up and adjusted the brim of his hat to see better. “Can you take us up the River Plym!” I called.
“We can take you to hell for a shilling, Heaven for one and six!” Shouted up one of his crew.
“Belay that talk Salty, tis the Lord’s day!” Chastised Nobby, his pipe bouncing up and down in his mouth as he spoke. I felt in my pocket for my money, thank the Lord I had the presence of mind to pick up some change this morning.

“How much to Plympton and back?” Demanded the Skipper throwing in his two pennyworth.
“I’m paying!” I defiantly remarked, looking at him sideways.
He scoffed, “You need a good bargain!” He turned to look at me. “Your hopeless, you’ll pay any price!” Whispered the Skipper using the side of his hand to obscure his mouth. He then proceeded to haggle with Nobby, I have never felt so embarrassed, well that’s not quite true, but that is another story.

Three minutes later and Nobby defiantly says, “That is my final price take it or leave it.”
The Captain looked at me and remarked, “That’s the best I can do, it’s up to you now!” So, muttering my begrudged thanks, I quickly made sure I had one shilling three and a half pence in my pocket, I counted out the coins into the palm of my hand. Meanwhile the Captain placed his hands behind his back and started to whistle a happy tune whilst keeping a weather eye out for the ladies.

I boarded Nobby’s boat with Henri in tow leaving the Captain as a lookout, sitting near Nobby, I was feeling deeply embarrassed, so I offered him the money.
“Pay me when we return,” Replied a smiling Nobby, then he leant over and whispered, “I only charge a shilling normally you know, give me the coin when we return...” Then he said, “Is there something wrong with that Captain of yours?” I looked over at the Captain who was still whistling, hands clasped behind his back and watching for the ladies arrival.
“I am beginning to think there may be,” I replied quietly.

We sat there in the boat for quite a while, It was quiet a fun boat to be on, Nobby is such a card with his men, banter flowing backwards and forwards, his men trying to give as good as they got.
Suddenly, Nobby said seriously, “We need to be going soon. Tides a changing. If we delay, you won’t get any time in Plympton and you’ll want to see the old castle, I presume?” I nodded and confirmed looking up at the Captain who had ceased his whistling and was now engaging in conversation with Smiler and his sister Bess who had just appeared. She smiled and waved down at me, I waved back like a simpleton.

“Do you know Bess?” Exclaimed Nobby noticing that Bess was waving at me. “Big lass that!” Now one his men joined in.
“She’s a rum un! Laid out Ben Breeze with a bottle the other day!” I looked at the sailor in amazement.
“She can handle her fists too!” Added the other one.
“I wouldn’t like to get on the wrong side of her!” Exclaimed Percy.
“Well, I wouldn’t say no to a tussle with her. Fancy waking up with that next to you!” Sniggered the first.
“She’ll bloody kill you Harry!” Chuckled Nobby. “Get those legs wrapped around your neck, you wouldn’t see daylight for a month!” I coughed loudly!
Nobby looked at me, “Alright that’s enough lads! Quiet now!”

Just at that moment The Ladies returned and was greeted by the Skipper, Bess glared as the Skipper took Rose’s basket and directed them to the steps. Henri rose and jumped out onto the first dry step, offering his hand to Rose as she descended. I couldn’t help noticing Bess, she was frowning and looking Cassie up and down. I arose and moved to the bows where Rose was preparing to step into the boat. Offering her my hand she daintily stepped over, but didn’t allow for the weight shift. “Careful” Shouted Nobby. But I had her, she thanked me, passed me and sat down. Next it was Arianne, she took my hand and nimbly skipped over into the boat, obviously she is used to boats I thought at the time.

Now it was Cassie, she was not too sure, and nervously held out her hand.
“Wait a second Cassie, let the boat settle first!” I calmly remarked. Seconds later, I held out my hand she grasped it and took a flying leap into the boat. Her momentum was such that she bowled me over and we both fell back into the boat.
“Watch out!” Shrieked Percy as I landed heavily sitting on a thwart with my back against the mast and Cassie slumped around my chest, she was holding on to me for dear life.

Suddenly I was surrounded by willing hands, truth be known I had banged my back and head hard on the mast and let out a small cry of pain. Rubbing my head with my free hand I painfully exclaimed, “You might be good with horses Cassie, but with boats you’re usel...”

“Sorry Benjamin!” She whimpered releasing herself and standing, “Have you hurt yourself?” She proceeded to examine the back of my head. She was joined by Henri and the Skipper who both took turns at examining my head.
“No sense no feeling!” Exclaimed the Captain has he picked up my hat and handed it to me. “You’ll be alright, just don’t scratch your head, you’ll get splinters in your hand!” Chuckled my caring Captain.

From my semi recumbent position I could see Bess half way down the steps. Hands on hips she was intently glaring at someone and I don’t think it was me. This unnerved me, so shifting myself, I sat up, replaced my hat, smiled at Cassie and exclaimed, “I’m alright, let’s get going Nobby!”

After resuming our positions, Cassie noticed Bess still glaring and mentioned something to Rose, we were backing out into deep water now. I looked over to the sea wall where Bess and Smiler were waving. They were obviously talking, although I couldn’t hear them, I had a good idea what they were saying. So I raised my hand and waved back, another mistake.
“Who’s that woman Benjamin?” Asked Cassie fishing.
“That’s Samuel’s sister, him there, next to her, he used to work in our shop.”
All went quiet, I breathed a sigh of relief, but it was short lived.
“She seems fond of you?” Cassie muttered.
I ignored her, but she wasn’t finished, “What’s her name?” She suddenly asked.
“Who?” Asked the Captain before I could have a chance to answer.
“That woman on the sea wall, the one who saw us off!” Replied Cassie.
“Ask Ben, she’s his friend!” Replied the Captain.
“No she is not!” I declared firmly looking directly at Cassie.
“She’s Samuel’s sister! Bess, we used to play together when we were small.”
Then the Captain spoke again, “Didn’t she knock you out cold in the street a few weeks ago?” I looked daggers at him.
“What were you doing for Bess to knock you out...” Asked Cassie.

Before I could answer, up piped Nobby, “Hear that lads, “The Midshipman was knocked out by Bess the other week?”
Then the Skipper chirped in again, “Wasn’t the first time, he was involved in a fight with her in the Watch House last week. So he was!”
Then it started, everyone had fun at my expense, the only ones that wasn’t laughing was Cassie and myself. Arianne was stone faced at first until Henri translated; the swine.

I tried to explain, but it was the wrong time and the wrong place, so I just grinned and bore it. Cassie wasn’t speaking to me for the entire voyage to Plympton. She huddled and whispered secretly to her cousin who tried to console her, whilst I on the other hand achieved a sort of notoriety as the boy who took on Bess and lived. The truth being, I had no say in either matter.

The journey was fine and we really should have enjoyed seeing all the wading birds strutting about in the estuary, the small cottages belonging to the estate, the tree lined banks of the river. Quite idyllic scenery, I would say in happier times. We even passed the landing stage where the King visited the great estate, pointed out in great seriousness by Nobby. Mind you it was quite a few years since his visit.

Suddenly after about an hour of going past reed beds and marshes, Nobby suddenly said, “This is about as far as I can take you, after this the old river line is silted up. The Castle is up that hill there.” He pointed past a large church towards a steep wood covered hill, several small cottages graced the slope of the hill. There are more houses and a couple of shops just up there...”
“Who lives at the castle?” Remarked Cassie innocently interrupting Nobby.
“Only badgers and foxes these days, it’s a ruin!” Replied Percy pulling in his oar.

The boat glided into what was once an old jetty, it bumped along until Percy using his boathook made fast to one of the old timbers.
“I can only stay here for about...” Nobby looked at the water level, then at the sky and the position of the sun. He took a deep intake of breath before pronouncing, “For about two hours.”
Both the Skipper and I took out our watches and checked the time. “Fine,” muttered the Skipper winding his watch, “Half an hour to get there, an hour for the picnic and half an hour back.”

Thanking Nobby, both Henri and myself clambered onto the rickety jetty, it moaned and groaned under our weight. Offering our hands to the ladies, Cassie declined mine and took hold of Henri’s. Arianne took my hand and disembarked swiftly. Very nimble of foot, I thought. Meanwhile Henri was struggling with Cassie who was making heavy weather of leaving the boat. Arianne watched Cassie’s performance before pushing me forward to help. Between us and holding one hand apiece and with Rose pushing upwards, we practically lifted Cassie onto the jetty.

Soon we were all out of the boat and stepping carefully off the semi rotten timbers. Arianne had buttonholed Cassie, obviously to have a good conversation, which carried on as we walked up the steep hill towards the castle. I trudged on behind holding the heavy basket. Just why I was lumbered with it, I didn’t know, I just remember the Skipper saying, ‘Hold this,’ as he passed it out of the boat. Well, at least it would be lighter on the way down.

I don’t know what Arianne said to Cassie, but when we eventually arrived at the castle she was back to her normal self. Strange things these women, one moment they can be ready to slit your throat, the next they are as nice as pie. And talking of pie, I really enjoyed Mistress Campbell’s pie. So much so that Cassie seeing my enjoyment of it, offered me her slice, I suppose she was feeling a bit guilty. I thought it a bit rude not to accept as it was really tasty. I wasn’t the only one that liked the contents of that basket. The Captain certainly had a appetite and we reached for the last piece of cake. He beat me to it and grinned. “Saved you from becoming fat!” He joked.

We spent a good hour in that ruined castle, we ate then walked slowly around what must have been the castle yard, before looking down on the town below. Suddenly after checking his watch the Skipper pronounced that it was time to go.
“So what happened to the Castle then?” Asked Rose looking back at the large mound topped with partially ruined walls.
I shrugged my shoulders, “Your the local Benjamin, you should know these things.” Scolded Cassie half in jest.
“I have never been here before!” I remarked trying to defend myself.
“Perhaps it is one of those castles that Cromwell knocked down,” Remarked the Skipper casually, before adding, “We will have to ask someone local?”
Cassie stabbed me with her finger, “But not you Benjamin.”

Back at the jetty, we had quite a performance getting Cassie into the boat. The water level having gone down made the boat considerably lower, it was extremely awkward to embark ladies. Compound this with the rotten jetty and we have an accident waiting to happen. And sure as eggs are eggs, it did, we were in the middle of lowering Cassie into the boat when the Skipper’s foot went through a plank and he fell to the deck, he screamed out in alarm. One of his legs was now protruding through the broken jetty. I was more worried about Cassie, she slumped with a shriek into the boat with only the quick actions of Nobby and Percy saving her from serious injury and a ducking.

Seeing that Cassie was safe, we looked to the Skipper, he was obviously in pain, he was trying to release his leg but the splinted wood just dug deeper as he tried to free himself. We had already lowered Rose and Arianne into the boat, Cassie was the last and now Rose started to panic. She rushed over to where she could see the bottom of his leg protruding through the planks. Then she screamed and fainted at the sight of his blood running down his torn stockings. Nobby caught her and Arianne tended her until Cassie made her way over. I looked to the Skipper and saw the problem straight away.
“Don’t move your leg!” I shouted, “You are pulling against the splinters, they will just dig deeper!”

“We need a saw!” Called Harry looking from the underneath, “I may be able to pull some of these lose splinters away!”
Nobby looked over Harry’s shoulders, “I have my rigging knife, we may be able to cut some away.”
Suddenly a small hatchet appeared, thrown onto the jetty by Percy, “See if any part of the plank is rotten, you may be able to pry it out.”
Picking up the hatchet I tapped along the plank, it was sounding dull. However every tap was agony to the Skipper. But I persisted, meanwhile Nobby was removing splinters from the underside, I could see him working below through the gaps in the planks.

Then I found it on the other side of the Skipper’s leg, the hatchet dug deep into the wet wood.
“Here!” I shouted, bending the hatchet over to pry out a large chunk of rotten wood.
“Knock through quickly and free me from that side!” Grimaced the Captain gritting his teeth.
“That will teach you not to take the last slice of cake!” I joked as I raised the axe and brought it down with a mighty blow on the rotten wood. The Captain let out a scream of pain as the axe head disappeared through the plank.

The axe had made a hole in the wood, I wrestled the axe out again and used my fingers to pull away the rotten wood. Soon the plank was only held together by one thin strand of solid timber at the other side, Nobby’s knife made short work of that. Now the Skipper could move his leg sideways, but not without considerable pain as the splinters on the attached side were loath to give up their hold on him.

Suddenly he was free, shoeless but free, his stockings cut to ribbons and bloodstained. He painfully hobbled to the side of the jetty and sat on the edge to pull out the larger splinters, several broke and left pieces of rotten wood inside the wound. We had a brief discussion on how he could get into the boat, he on the other hand was ready to lower himself down. Rose was having none of it, she arose and examined his leg dangling over the jetty. Suddenly she was tearing off her petticoat hem to make bandages, all the time she was telling him to remain still and to stop picking at the wound. Now examining the injury more carefully she started to pull out the larger splinters with her thumb and forefinger before she bandaged his leg, but she was quite sure she had missed quite a few deep ones. Now, we prepared to lower him down. In the boat Nobby and his men were making ready to receive him and although it was a bit difficult at times, (for he is no lightweight,) we achieved our objective and the Skipper was installed next to Nobby in the starboard stern sheets.

Well, the trip back certainly seemed quicker, Nobby hoisted the sail and we sailed home downwind under a light NNE wind. Only when we reached the mouth of the estuary did he lower the sail and resumed pulling. I thought it best if Henri and I took up the spare oars and lent a hand. The Skipper on the other hand was being tended by the three ladies, he was clearly enjoying the attention. Every now and again when the ladies stopped fussing over him, he would let out a small moan, only to have their undivided attention again. I thought, ‘he’s milking it a bit here.’

We managed to get him ashore with the help of the Duty Officer who sent some of his watchmen to help him disembark and negotiate the steps. Once ashore our hobbling Skipper dismissed the watchmen with a curt, “I can do it from now on, thank you men!” This left him to hobble quite slowly, but noisily towards the Watch House, he moved from barrel to crate, then stopping for a short rest before hobbling on again.

Suddenly he was aided by the three girls who couldn’t do enough for him and attended on his every groan.
“How brave!” I heard Cassie say more than once.
Rose was now walking with the Skipper, using her shoulder to support him. I on the other hand was left to pay Nobby and retrieve the empty basket. I personally didn’t think that the Skipper had that bad a wound, I had seen far worse, but he was making a real meal out of it. I think most of the groaning and hobbling was for the benefit of his three nurses.

Meanwhile, Nipper was sent to get Doctor Lancaster while the Skipper was helped into the Watch House and sat on the bench.
“Doesn’t look too bad, I’ve seen worse!” Remarked Officer Bates on examining the wound.
“Better let the Doctor have a look just in case.” Added Rose.
“Do you think we should get him home?” Remarked Cassie, “And put him to bed?”
Rose looked at her for a second smiled and said, “Good idea Cassie!”

This seemed to unnerve the Captain and he made several excuses and reasons why they should not proceed with that plan. But the ladies were having none of it, even Arianne after Henri had translated, sailed in and agreed that he would be better in bed when the doctor arrived. So that was that, three determined ladies and one not so keen Skipper. Seconds later he was hobbling out of the Watch House with his arm around Rose’s shoulder, onward towards Mistress William’s house.

The basket and I seemed to be inseparable and I wondered what to do with it. So leaving it with Officer Bates along with a half penny for Nipper to return it to Mistress Campbell, I left and followed the small procession of my friends. Along the way the Skipper was stopped several times by both well wishers and the downright nosy people of Plymouth. I think they thought him a returning wounded hero, him in his Royal Navy uniform and all. And that’s a point, why do I have to have to wear a Preventative Service uniform and he can wear the Royal Navy one?

I mulled on that point as I followed them up to Mistress William’s house where Cassie quickly was sent to find Polly whilst the Skipper was helped to hobble slowly up the stairs and into his room.
Then it started, “This place is a mess Richard!” Remarked Rose as she lowered him onto the bed. Then she rounded on the maid Polly who suddenly appeared. “Don’t you clean up! Can we tidy this place up please!” Exclaimed Rose brusquely.
“This hasn’t been dusted for a while!” Added Cassie running her finger along the mantelpiece and looking at the grey powder on her finger.
“We would like a fire lit too, if it is not too much trouble!” Remarked Rose sarcastically.
Polly started to tidy up, “Leave that and get the fire going and we would like some hot water and bandages bringing straight away!” Ordered Rose, before suddenly adding, “Oh and Doctor Lancaster is calling, please show him up immediately.”

There was no doubt in my mind who was in charge in that room and it certainly wasn’t the Captain. The three girls hovered over the Skipper like vultures, “I suppose we had better get him ready for the Doctor!” Muttered Rose.
“That sock will have to come off.” Suggested Cassie. Then Arianne started to take the Captain’s coat off. I don’t know what she said, but off came the coat, then she wanted the waistcoat. The Captain was not keen, he was very reluctant and answered her in her own language. Yet she insisted, so off it came. Then she started on the breeches. Here the Skipper put up more firm resistance. I thought it funny and sniggered.
Bad move, “What you giggling at?” Retorted the Captain looking over at me while trying to keep Arianne’s hands away from his buttons.

“I should be doing that,” Remarked Rose taking over from Arianne.
“No you shouldn’t, I can undress myself, I am not a child!” Exclaimed the Captain holding on to his waistband.
“He’s embarrassed, isn’t that sweet!” Remarked Rose smiling at the others. Then Arianne said something in French and resumed her attack on the Skipper’s breeches. I smiled at Henri who seemed to be enjoying the show.
“She says, the Captain has not got anything other men haven’t!”
Just then the Captain shrieked, “Mademoiselle! Laissez-le!” I was quite enjoying the Skipper’s discomfort, Henri was chuckling away just behind me.

Rose took hold of Arianne’s wrist and said something in French, I looked over to Henri who said between tears of laughter, “She thinks the Captain would prefer to do it himself!”
Rose continued to talk to Arianne, suddenly she pointed to me and I made out the word Benjamin. I looked to Henri again, “She says it might be best if you do it!” That wiped the smile off my face.

The girls backed away and looked at me.
“You do it!” Remarked Cassie.
“I can do it my damned self!” Exclaimed a rather annoyed Skipper.
“Language Richard!” Scolded Rose. I think the Captain was just going to reply in his own inimitable style when Donovan appeared carrying a coal bucket, kindling and a lighted taper.
“Oh it’s you! What are you doing here?” I exclaimed, quite surprised to see him.
“Jist makin' up de fire, ter 'elp Polly!” Replied the First Mate. “Dat is, wi' yer permission Captain!” He looked over for approval.

He was followed by Polly carrying a bowl and a towel draped over her shoulder. “Begging your pardon Madam!” She addressed Rose.
“The Mistress would like to know what is going on? She asks, would you be so kind as to call on her in the sitting room.”
Rose looked at Cassie and Arianne, “This may be a good time to let the Captain make himself ready to receive the Doctor.” Suggested Cassie.
And that was that, the ladies led by Polly, who had left the washing things on the dresser went off to call on the owner of the house.

This left Henri, Donovan and the Skipper alone in that small room with myself. “When they had gone, the Skipper let fly with the expletives.
First he rounded on Henri and Myself, “You’re no damned good! Leaving me to the bleeding mercy of those three harpies. No help at damned all!” He started to remove his breeches, moaning continually, “I am perfectly capable of doing this sort of thing myself.” We looked away as he moaned and grumbled while he carefully removed the article of clothing that had lately been the centre of attention. I noticed Donovan sniggering quietly as he made up the fire.

So there we were, all standing around that small bedroom not knowing what to say, just listening to the Skipper grumbling away. Now and again he inadvertently touched his injured leg as he removed his breeches then he would let out a small cry of pain and grimace. Suddenly the operation was complete and the Skipper sat back. “Phew!” He let out a gasp of satisfaction. “Thank God for that!”
Trying to change the subject I remarked casually, “How are you going to manage all that we have to do next week, I mean if your leg is sore now, it is going to be three times worse tomorrow.”
He shrugged his shoulders and looked up to the ceiling. “Christ knows!” He muttered. “Looks like you are going to be taking on a bit more responsibility. You and laughing boy there.” He pointed at Henri.

We spent nearly half an hour with the Captain waiting for the Doctor to call. Eventually he turned up, took one look at the patient and shooed us all out of the room. We all had to stand waiting on the stairs twiddling our thumbs. Just then Rose Cassie and Arianne returned along with Mistress Williams who summing up the situation pronounced, “I’ll get Polly to make tea.”

We all trooped off into the parlour to await on events, “It’s only a flesh wound,” Remarked Henri trying to comfort Rose who suddenly started to weep. But the other ladies quickly surrounded and tried to comfort her, then they started getting watery eyes too. I was more interested in the large plate of biscuits that Polly had just brought in and popped onto the table before being sent to fetch a new lace kerchief from the Mistresses’ room.

Eventually the doctor appeared and pronounced that he had cleaned the wound and re-bandaged the leg.
“Bed rest and beware of infection,”
Was the answer to Rose’s question of “What shall I do!”
The Doctor went on to say, “Wash the wound in hot water every day, but take note of the smell, if it starts to smell call me.” Rose nodded in understanding. “I will return in a couple of days to check,” Continued the Doctor eying up the tea and biscuits.
Mistress Williams saw him look towards the table and asked, “Perhaps you would like to have tea Doctor, you’re more than welcome?”

So there we all are sitting down chatting about the weather when Cassie suddenly remembers the Skipper.
“Captain Clifford may be glad of refreshments?” She interrupted quietly. Then followed a small scene in which the ladies, (one could not say fought for the right to administer to the invalid), but it was similar, with Rose winning the contest by saying, “I should do it, Richard and I have an understanding!” That silenced the room for a couple of seconds.
“Have you dear, how wonderful!” Remarked a smiling Mistress Williams now clapping her hands in joy.
“Let me offer my congratulations!” Added the Doctor. Rose looked put out, but she accepted. Cassie gave her a strange look.

Arianne looked at Henri to translate. He did so, even with a mouthful of biscuit, which made it even more incomprehensible to me. Clearly not to Arianne, for up she bounces, sprouting away in French. Hugs Rose, and kisses her on both cheeks. I looked over at Henri and shrugged my shoulders. The room is in an uproar now, with Rose the centre of attention and to be honest I wasn’t really sure what had happened. Yet I was not kept in the dark any longer Henri suddenly translated. “Arianne iz offering ze congratulations on Rose’s, err... How you say... Forthcoming marriage!”

Well that shocked me, I had no idea and now Cassie was walking over and giving me a strange look. Suddenly she sits next to me, leans over and looking me fully in the face whispered, “Isn’t it wonderful!” I nearly answered, ‘Is the Captain aware?’
But instead I gulped “Yes and such a surprise too.”
She laid her head on my shoulder and sighed, “To me too, I don’t know what her guardian will say?”
I put down my cup and replied, “Well, you can ask him in a few days, you will be seeing him soon.”
She sat bolt upright, “I think Richard is the one that should ask Uncle Rufus before making plans. Anyway I don’t think we will be leaving now Benjamin, Rose would not leave her Captain in distress, I’m confident of that!”

Now all the women, less Cassie, were sitting together holding hands and planning something. Then Mistress Williams started talking in French.
“Don’t tell me she can speak French too!” I blurted out.
“They are only talking about the wedding, silly! Shusss...” Replied Cassie listening in. I looked over at the Doctor and Henri who were steadily competing as to who would get to the last biscuit first. Then Cassie slinked back to the other ladies and I was left alone.
“I suppose I had better feed the Skipper then!” I exclaimed quietly to myself as I stood and rescued several biscuits before those two gannets finished off the plate. Now picking up the cup Rose was going to take up to the invalid, I backed out of the parlour, nobody noticed I was going.

I climbed the stairs and entered the room, suddenly I was hit by the heat from the fire, “Phew!” I exclaimed, “Warm in here isn’t it!”
The Captain who was sitting up in bed, remarked sourly, “Warm as hell, can you open a window please. Damned Doctor stoked up the fire before leaving. Told him not to damnwell do it, he says it will kill any bad air in the room! Then he did it anyway!” I walked over and offered him the cup and plate of biscuits.
“I believe you are confined to bed for a while?”
He gave a snort, “I’m not taking any notice of that, I’ll just stay here until Rose goes tomorrow then I will get up!”
I sat in the fireside chair as I remarked, “I think you might have to rethink that plan!”

He placed the biscuit plate on this lap, looked at me and said quietly, “What have you heard, what did the Doctor say, is my leg really bad?”
I noticed that the side of my leg was getting really hot from the fire, so I stood up and walked to the window, “No, it’s just that Cassie doesn’t think Rose will be leaving tomorrow.”
I was just opening the window when The Skipper uttered, “What!”
I looked out on the cobbled street below before answering, “She’s not going tomorrow, she is staying here to nurse you.”

“I don’t bloody need nursing,” Remarked the Skipper picking up a biscuit and examining it before biting a chunk out of it! I returned to the chair.
“She thinks it her duty, especially now you two are getting married...”
Well that did it, the Captain nearly choked on that biscuit, crumbs flying everywhere, then he started to cough. I rushed over and removed the cup of tea, which was in imminent danger of being spilled, before patting him sharply on the back several times.

Now recovered, the Captain looked awash, “Did I hear you correctly?”
I nodded in reply, “They are all talking about it downstairs. Congratulations by the way!” I held out my hand. Then I had to remove it as the Skipper just stared at it for several seconds.
“I take it you are as surprised as I am!” I stated hesitantly, whilst backing slowly away.
“You could say that?” Muttered the Captain still staring into space. I sat down on the fireside chair and waited. Minutes went by whilst the Skipper thought about things, at one time his finger went up, once he scratched his head.
Suddenly he pronounced, “Go and ask Rose to come up and see me alone, will you Ben!”
I think that is the first time he has called me Ben for a long time.
“But mind!” He cautioned, “Don’t say a word about what we have been talking about, I’ll know if you have and your life won’t be worth living if I find out you have blabbed.”
“I don’t think she will see you alone, propriety you know, she has her reputation.” I remarked casually.
“Just damnwell get her!” The Skipper hissed whilst threatening to get out of bed to thump me...

I speedily left that room with a strange feeling, yet on entering the parlour, immediately it departed when I noticed that the Doctor had left and that all the biscuits had gone too. Walking up to the Ladies, I stood around listening, they were still talking about dresses for the wedding, Henri was now amongst them giving his views on colours. Strange things these Frenchmen. Rose wasn’t looking particularly happy. Anyway, when someone noticed me standing there waiting there came a lull in the conversation while they stared at me. I at last managed to get my two pennyworth in. I just casually mentioned that the Captain would like to see Rose alone in his room, only to have Mistress Williams and Cassie jump down my throat for daring to suggest such a thing in a respectable house. Rose didn’t seem at all concerned and Arianne hadn’t a clue what we were talking about, until that is Henri translated.

“You cannot think of going alone into a gentleman’s bedroom my dear!” Stated Mistress Williams dominantly, “Yet if you insist, I will accompany you to act as chaperone. After all, you are not married yet!” So that was that, no arguments Rose accompanied by Mistress Williams arose and proceeded towards the stairs. I followed on at a respectable distance. Outside the Skipper’s room Mistress Williams moved a stool near the door and sat down whilst Rose went hesitantly in.
“Leave the door open dear!” Was Mistress Williams last words on the subject.

I don’t know what went on in that room, I was halfway up the stairs and wondering what to do for several minutes I stared into space until Mistress Williams settled the matter, she gave me a ‘What are you waiting for look!’ I made some miserable excuse and slowly retreated back to the parlour to join the other members of our party.
“Well what happened?” Asked Cassie.
“Blowed if I know.” I replied shrugging my shoulders. “Mistress Williams is sitting on guard outside the door and Rose is inside talking to the Skipper, but I didn’t hear anything.”

While we were waiting I noticed Cassie giving me those doe eyes again. It was making me feel uncomfortable. Arianne noticed too, she said something to Henri who looked in my direction and laughed. Then Arianne moved her chair near to Cassie’s and started to speak to her in French, then she gave her a little prod with her finger and nodded at me. Cassie shook her head, this sent Arianne off on her French soap box. Her hands were flying about as she expressed herself in a slightly louder voice than normal. Eventually she stood and literally pushed Cassie out of her chair towards me as she nodded in my direction like an imbecile. Cassie reluctantly moved over and sat in the chair next to mine, leaning towards her I asked, “What was that all about?”
Arianne was smiling and rubbing her hands together before spying a watching Henri who she made a beeline for.

After a slight pause Cassie looked at me and said quietly, “She thinks we ought to be together. Do you think we should be together Benjamin?”
Before I could answer the Kitchen door flew open to reveal Polly carrying a fresh pot of tea and behind her, a smiling Donovan carrying a large cake that was missing a slice. I could see by the crumbs on his waistcoat who had removed it.
“Oh good!” I exclaimed, “Cake!”
Wrong thing to say, “Is that all you can think about!” Remarked an annoyed Cassie sitting up straight and throwing her nose in the air.

After the servants had gone, out of the corner of my eye I could see Arianne giving me the devil of a look, suddenly she turned to Henri and asked him something in French. He whispered a reply, she nodded and whispered it back to him, then he nodded. Up she stood, stately as anything and glided over to me, I stood to greet her as she pronounced in my face “Cold Fish!” First she took my hand and taking Cassie’s also put them together saying, “Cold Fish Englishman!” As she pushed me back into the sitting position. Now she lectured Cassie in French. I looked over at Henri for help, but he was busy attacking the cake.

Now Arianne rounded on me again, “She wants you to stand up,” Exclaimed Cassie.
“Why?” I asked, but I did as I was asked. Then Arianne pushed my chair closer to Cassie’s, all the time Arianne was muttering away in her own language. Then she pushed me down into the seat and putting her nose next to mine exclaimed loudly “Idiot!” I understood that alright.
“What have I done?” I looked over to Henri who said spitting crumbs in my direction. “It iz what you have not done mon ami.”

I think that was a bit too much for Cassie and she made her excuses and fled the room closely followed by Arianne, whose parting words were to Henri, “Expliquez-lui,” I think I understood that, she had left me with the cake eating Frenchman to explain everything. And explain he did, it seems as if I wasn’t paying enough court to Cassie, I protested of course, but he persisted in explaining how to woo and win women. He then went on to arrogantly tell me why Frenchmen have great success with Ladies. Can’t say I would be able to do any such thing as he suggested, it was against my nature, but I listened and resolved to try a bit more.

By the time we were interrupted by Cassie and Arianne’s return, I was on my second slice of cake and goodness knows how many he had. It was clear that Cassie was upset, her eyes were red and she was holding a small lace kerchief. She sat down next to me and I whispered “Sorry!” She smiled as Arianne laid alongside She looked at Henri, then looked at the cake, then at Henri’s crumb filled lap and then she started, she wasn’t half giving him what for. She picked up the cake knife and waved it under Henri’s nose, he leant back in his chair to get away from the blade. All the time she was near-shouting at him in French.
Cassie sniggered as she translated, “She is calling him a big stuffed selfish pig and worse!” She tried to stem a smile as Arianne placing her hands on her hips bent over Henri and lectured him on something, then she half pointed at me with the cake knife.
“Oui!” Replied Henri. I was tempted to throw his own words about Frenchmen’s success with ladies back at him, but I resisted the temptation.

“What’s that all about?” I asked Cassie. She shrugged her shoulders, but I could guess anyway. Just then luckily Mistress Williams came back to see what all the commotion was about. Plus I could make out Polly and Donovan peering through the cracked open kitchen door. Arianne apologised to Mistress Williams showing the remains of the cake and pointing to Henri who also apologised. Storm in a tea cup I thought as the lady of the house gracefully calmed everyone down and called for more cake. “I must return to my post immediately,” She exclaimed in French, or so Cassie translated. Then she said something I took to be, “Do try and get on, help yourself to tea and cake!” Well that is what I thought she said, I nearly got it right, Cassie translated that Mistress Williams had said, she was glad Henri had enjoyed the cake. Turning slowly like a first rate man of war, Mistress Williams sailed out of the room and back to her blockading duties.

It was a good hour and starting to get dark before Rose and Mistress Williams returned. Rose was smiling but I never knew why, I was told that the Skipper wanted to see me immediately. Making my way up the stairs I was wondering if I would be attending a wedding soon. I bust in smiling, ready to offer my congratulations again, but I never got the chance. There he was, sitting on the side of the bed wearing a dark red dressing gown, he had a tray containing pen and paper resting on his knees. “Oh here you are good! Sit down, I have been making a list of things for you to do tomorrow.”
As I sat in the chair I muttered under my breath, “That’s nice of you!”
The Skipper looked up to say, “Did you say something!”
I shook my head and replied firmly, “No Sir!”

“Take this please, will you before I spill the ink!” He lifted up the tray and offered it to me. “The list on top is yours.”
I took the tray and deposited it next to the washbowl, then I picked up the long list. Looking at it, I whistled, “What would you like me to do after dinner!” I whispered sarcastically under my breath.
“You must speak louder! I must be going deaf!” Exclaimed the Skipper placing a finger in his ear to check for wax. “What did you say?”
I turned and holding up the list remarked, “I said, it’s a long list Sir!”

“Mostly self explanatory,” He muttered, “Report to me every day, if you can!” I looked over at him fiddling with the bandage on his leg.
“I thought you were carrying on as normal, once Rose left tomorrow.” He looked up, “That’s just it, she doesn’t want to go, she is staying here for a few days, she is writing to her Guardian tonight.” He took a deep breath and fingered the bandage, “So it looks like bed rest for me and a long task list for you.” I looked down at the list.

Some of the tasks were quite easy and some filled me with misery, I pointed to number three.
“I err... I’m not...” I was hesitating over the line that said work under Lieutenant Broadbent.
“Spit it out!” Exclaimed the Captain peering under his bandage.
“Lieutenant Broadbent, I... I... don’t really get on with his First Mate.”
He sniggered as he climbed back into bed. “What Leicester the Molester? I can’t really believe that, he is such a inoffensive man!”
I thought, ‘You sarcastic swine!” He continued as he settled himself in bed, “Don’t worry, he’ll be too busy running the Wasp to worry you on the Bee. I am going to ask the Lieutenant to carry on my teaching with you and that dopey Frenchman, as you go about those tasks on the list and I’ll insist that he leave Leicester on the Wasp.”

“How long do you think you will be out of commission for?” I asked, hoping he would say only a couple of days.
He shook his head, “God know, depends on whether I pick up an infection from those rotten timbers. We’ll know in a few days. It’ll start to smell. The doctor said it could be quite serious if I pick up an infection.” Seconds later he pointed to the list I still held in my hands, “Most of those jobs you can do tomorrow, like getting all correspondence from Watch House and the mail coach directed here to me.” I looked down the list, my eyes alighted on the line, liaise with Sergeant Burton on progress of the mortars.
“I don’t know what I can possibly do that Sergeant Burton is not already doing?”
He shrugged his shoulders, “Just check on their progress, we need to get those guns straightaway to Mister Goodchilde at the dockyard. So he can fit them. Likewise with the gunboats, we need them bringing down here, but we can leave that until we recruit some men. Talking of which, you will have to visit the receiving ships again!”

At the mention of the receiving ships, I pulled a face.
He smiled and said, “Just look on it as though you are rescuing those poor men.”
I looked up and thought for a second, then smiled, “Yes, I expect many if not all would be glad to be away from those hulks.”
Then his face turned serious, “Listen carefully, I’ll tell Lieutenant Broadbent too!” He pointed his finger at me. “We don’t want any criminals, sick, malingerers or the downright incompetent! We need trained seamen!”
I thought, ‘We’ll, lucky if we get any at all!’

He slapped his forehead, “Damn! I forgot to put Doctor Hugget on that list, See if you can find out what’s keeping him, ask him to call on me as soon as he can manage. Ask him if he can have a look at this leg, I didn’t really take to that other Doctor.” I turned around picked up the quill, dipped it in the inkpot and added the Doctor’s name at the bottom of the list.
“I think the first job tomorrow morning is to meet the lieutenant, ask him to send Leicester to the Wasp and then bring Broadbent here to see me.”

Suddenly my mind dwelled on the fact that he had avoided talking about Rose, so I stupidly asked. “Are congratulations in order Sir?”
He looked up at me, smiled put his index finger to his lips and replied, “Shsss... I haven’t asked her Guardian yet, Rose is writing to him tonight, she is going to ask the packet skipper to deliver it to the coach that will be sent to collect the girls. It’s just telling him about my injury and so on and inviting him down here with Cassie’s Father to see the ships, knowing his love of ships, with a bit of luck he will turn up soon and bring Uncle Rufus in tow!”

I didn’t say anything for a second, then I said, “So it’s a secret then? You do know they are discussing the wedding downstairs.”
His eyes went up to the ceiling, “Bloody women!” He muttered. “Well it’s supposed to be a secret, so don’t you say anything to anyone! You can congratulate me when her Guardian gives his approval.” He paused slightly in thought. “This is quite a nervous time for me. I had better have another word with Rose about the meaning of the word secret.”
He looked quite worried so I remarked, “I can sympathise with you, it must be quite stressful. But happy too, I’ll warrant.”
He scoffed, “You will find out soon enough, your card is marked too.”
“What’s that you say sir!” I exclaimed loudly.
But he wasn’t saying anymore, he just winked which quite unnerved me. After a few seconds of silence while I went over what he meant in my head.
He suddenly looked at me and said bluntly, “What are you waiting for... Christmas!” We left it at that and I went back below.

So I asked Rose to return and see the Captain, she nodded and both Mistress Williams and herself trooped off to see the Skipper on his sick bed. By the look on her face, I don’t think Mistress Williams was too keen on all this running up and down stairs. Yet eventually, a chasten Rose returned and with the help of the lady of the house settled down to write her letter.

Meanwhile, I walked Cassie, Henry and Adrianne back to our shop where of course we had to repeat all what had occurred that day for the benefit of my inquisitive Mother. I of course left out the marriage part, but Cassie let it slip. That was it, all normal conversation was now at an end, the topic from now on was the wedding, even when I reminded them point blank that it was supposed to be a secret.

The time was ticking away, Henri and myself had very little to add to the topic of conversation, that is if we could have squeezed a word in edgeways. Moreover, the ladies had no intention of stopping, so on Mother’s instructions both Henri and myself were detailed to fetch Rose to share our evening meal, which fortunately according to Mary would be ready quite soon.

And that was more or less that, during the meal where the main topic of conversation was the secret wedding with little snatches of the Captain’s leg and how brave he was. I was getting quite bored, I finished both courses before anyone else, mainly because they were all constantly talking. Even Henri threw in his half pennyworth with comments about colours and dress material to complement the individual ladies. I just thought, ‘that’s a mockery they are all having new dresses again, what is going on? Good job we sell silks by the yard.’

Later, I walked Rose and Cassie home and now the topic changed to where will you live now? “I’m not sure,” Remarked Rose stopping to think.
“Probably Plymouth, do you think?” Asked Cassie.
“I suppose it depends on where Richard comes from,” Mused Rose looking dreamily up into the dark sky.
“I mean, has he family at home, an aged mother perhaps?” Added Cassie linking her arm in mine.
“You would want to live near your Mother when you married wouldn’t you Benjamin?”
I said nothing for a second, so she rearranged the same question.
“I mean you would want to live near your Mother wouldn’t you? Just in case something happened to her.”
“Stop it Cassie!” Hissed Rose.

Rose now quickly linked her arm in mine and looked daggers at her cousin, so now I had one on either arm and they were talking across me.
“I was just asking if Benjamin was intending settling down in Plymouth, that’s all! What’s wrong with that?” Snapped Cassie.
“We both know what you were asking!” Retorted Rose leaning across my chest.
“It was a perfectly reasonable question to ask dear cousin!” Hissed Cassie leaning across my front.
“You know how your Mother and Uncle Rufus will react!” Retorted Rose.
“What about your Mother and Uncle Rufus!” I asked, I was definitely mystified, why are they both getting so worked up.

And so it went on, these two cousins were squabbling like alley cats, lots of noise but no actual violence and it continued all the way back to their lodgings.
“We should really think about renting somewhere better,” Remarked Rose suddenly on seeing the lights shining through a distant house windows.
“I think that is a good idea, Benjamin will help us to look, it will be fun!” Added Cassie enthusiastically.
“We must get one with a spare room for your Mother,” Exclaimed Rose suddenly.
“How long are you staying?” I innocently asked. Wrong question, that stopped them in their tracks, they turned to look at me.
“Don’t you want us to stay?” Pouted Cassie, looking hurt.
‘What do you say to that,’ I thought quickly.

“Of course I wanted you to stay, but I was thinking, if you are renting they may not rent for short periods!” That seemed to placate them.
“Oh, if that’s the case; well perhaps we had better buy a small place somewhere?” Exclaimed Rose nonchalantly.
“What!” I exclaimed loudly, “You would buy a place!”
Rose looked blankly at me, “Well, Richard and I will need a place to live in whilst he is here!” Added Rose detaching herself from my arm and looking directly at her cousin.
“I am going in now, I will expect you inside in ten minutes Cassie. Don’t make me come out and embarrass you!” She wagged her finger under her cousin’s chin.
Then unexpectedly she kissed me on the cheek. “Goodnight Ben.” She said taking her leave. “Ten minutes Cassie!” She called as she made her way towards the Campbell’s establishment. I felt Cassie’s hand tighten on my arm as Rose made her way inside their lodgings. Suddenly she was pulling me into an unlit part of the street... Needless to say any animosity or misunderstanding that had occurred between us during the day disappeared very quickly.

Monday 29th of May 1809

Over breakfast I examined the Captain’s list, “What’s that?” Asked my nosy Mother.
“It’s only a list of jobs the Skipper has given me. Do you want to have a look?” I replied sarcastically half passing her the paper.
She took it instantly, after a few seconds she replied, “He must think a lot of you to give you all these important tasks.”
I leant over and took a slice of toast, “Believe me they are not that important, I will be under Lieutenant Broadbent for most of the time.”
She passed the list back, asking, “Have I met this Lieutenant?”
I shook my head, “I don’t think so! Which reminds me, I had better get going and acquaint him of his new responsibility, me!” I pointed to myself and smiled.
So did Mother, “God help him!” I heard her mutter.

When I eventually found my new mentor, I took great pleasure in telling the Lieutenant and his mastiff about the Captain’s indisposition and his orders concerning Leicester the Molester. Mind you; you’d think he was parting with his right arm rather than parting with his First Mate. But eventually after a lot of if’s and buts and several, perhaps the Captain meaning was obscure, all of which I easily countered. A sorrowful Leicester walked down the landing steps and into the Wasp’s boat for the short pull to his ship. I on the other hand was incredibly happy to see him go, I then guided the Lieutenant towards the Captain’s lodgings.

We emerged an hour later along with Henri and the definite understanding that for the next few days we would be all working together. Henri and I were further excused from duty that day on account of the Captain’s list. So from tomorrow the Lieutenant, myself and Henri would start to search the receiving ships for seamen. Captain Clifford had given the Lieutenant exact instructions on whom to recruit and more importantly, whom not too.

So for the rest of the day Henri and I worked down the list. We found that the redirecting and delivery of any letters was easy, but it cost me sixpence. I reasoned that there must be about six, two from the lieutenants, one from Mister Waxford, one from Cassie’s Father, one from Mister Goodchilde and perhaps one from Lord Waxenden. So just in case I paid for six at a penny delivery each. I ended up giving the Captain’s address as the recipient.
“No chance of being reimbursed from the Skipper,” I muttered as I paid the postmaster at the Kings Head. Henri made a remark but I ignored it. Later on the return journey we managed to catch Mister Hutchens on his morning round, of course we had to run to keep up with him, it is quite exhausting trying to conduct a conversation at the trot. But eventually I brought him up to date with the news and conversation heard at Lord Waxenden’s party. He really didn’t have any news for us, he was just waiting on events. So we left it at that, leaving him in the Revenue Service warehouse.

Next, according to the list was to check on Sergeant Burton and the mortars. This was more problematical. Just where was the Sergeant and his men, I reasoned that they were either on the Bee or around the mortars. But I was wrong on both counts, I had Nobby take us over to the Bee only to be told that the gunners had not been seen or heard of since Saturday morning. I then asked Nobby to take me into the harbour, to the warehouse that housed our new mortars, that was the only place I thought they might go. That little trip cost me another sixpence.
“This iz quite expensive all zis running around,” Remarked Henri watching me count out the coins into Nobby’s waiting hand.
“Perhaps ze Captain will give ze money back to you?”
Nobby nearly swallowed his pipe and I gave Henri a “Don’t talk stupid look!” We left the boat and wandered into the warehouse looking for the Sergeant and his men. Yet, no! No sign of them here and according to the warehouse manager no word from Lady Penrose regarding the mortars either.

Giving that up as a bad job, I resolved to tackle the next item on the list, a visit Doctor Hugget at Millbay Prison. We trudged wearily onwards out of town, as we did so, I checked my watch at frequent intervals. Eventually we reached the prison just as it started to rain.
“You have terrible weather in England! No!” Remarked Henri buttoning up his coat as we dashed up the steps and stepped inside. There we told the guard that we had come to visit the Doctor. He directed us to the clerk Mister Goody who recognised us instantly and directed us across the yard with the guard as escort and guide. This was definitely a bit dangerous for Henri was now wearing in his royalist uniform and he stuck out like a sore thumb. And he knew it, he definitely wasn’t so keen to enter that large prison yard as he was the last time we visited.

Fortunately the weather was shocking and it was coming down in buckets, I don’t think the guard was keen to go either. However, the rain had cleared the yard of French prisoners, we could just see them crowded in doorways and sheltering anywhere that was dry around the edges of the yard.
“Better make a run for it Sirs,” Remarked the guard lowering his muzzle and covering the lock on his musket from the rain with the crook of his arm.

We scurried across that yard and bounded into the surgery. Even with that short distance we were soaking. Once in, I removed my hat and shook it. I looked around, there was the Doctor attending a line of patients, spoon in hand about to give them a taste of some medicine or other. Well I say line, there was about three of them all waiting for the doctor’s attention. On seeing Henri’s uniform they started chattering away noisily amongst themselves. I noticed Henri’s hand immediately went to his sword hilt.

“Better go into the parlour and get dry,” Called the Doctor sensing the mood of the prisoners. “I’ll just deal with these men and join you.” There then followed a brisk exchange between the angry French prisoners and Henri and I am sure they wasn’t wishing each other genial pleasantries or asking the price of fish!
“Get him out of here!” Shouted the Doctor over the noise. I literally pushed the snarling Frenchman through the parlour door.

Once I had managed to close the door behind us, he shook himself and calmed down saying, “Cochons!” We removed our top coats and by poking the fire we managed to get a reasonable blaze going with which to dry our coats. We were standing there presenting the backs of our wet coats to the fire when I noticed through the side window that the guard was escorting the three patients back across the yard.
Suddenly the Doctor appeared, “Sorry about that lads!” He remarked rubbing his hands together. “Didn’t know you were coming, else they wouldn’t have been there. Now... I’ve ordered refreshments.”

And so he had, several minutes later in walked Bob Travis with a large tray complete with tea pot, cups and biscuits. We spent several happy minutes in conversation with Bob, he was keen to know how Sergeant Burton was getting on. He laughed when I told him about their adventures on Saturday night and frowned as I informed him that I could not find them this morning.
“I’ll warrant he’ll be at Frank’s Missus House near Plymouth Dock. They often hole up there when they have been sampling Bacchus’ wares!” He touched his nose with his finger. “I can let you have the address if you want?”

We spent several hours with the doctor that day, mostly talking about old times, but he did tell me that he had intended to call on the Captain very soon, this accident of his has made it so imperative that he call this very afternoon. So we arranged to walk back with him, but then Bob returned with a scrap of paper.
“Here’s that address Sir!” Remarked Bob passing the scrap of paper over. “But, I’ll warrant they will turn up soon. They’ve done that before, you know, They disappears for a few days at a time, especially after an embarrassing incident like the one you described.” He leant forward and whispered, “He has been flogged and reduced to the ranks on more than one occasion. Yet he is so good a soldier that he always manages to crawl back up again.”

About twenty minutes later, we left that warm parlour and using the back entrance walked down the muddy alley out onto the main street. The rain had slowed to a drizzle now and there were clear blue skies in the distance.
I looked up at the sky to ask, “Shall we get a carriage?”
“We would probably have to walk damn near into Plymouth to find one,” replied the Doctor fiddling with the loose clasp on his bag, “And by that time we found one we might as well keep going. Besides the exercise may do me good, I seem to be putting on weight.”
I looked at the Doctor’s waistcoat buttons straining at the seams, “Surely not Doctor?” I replied. He gave me a strange look and a little smile before ignoring my comment all together. Then with his Medicine bag in his hand strode forward at a goodly pace, so much so that we had to nearly run to keep up with him. But it did not last for long, soon he was winded and puffing away.

A few minutes later, we had a brief pause in order for the Doctor to catch his breath, we were near the new road into Plymouth. I pulled out my crumpled list and unfolded it.
“What’s that?” Wheezed the Doctor looking over my shoulder, his medical bag slamming into the back of my knee.
“It’s my to do list!” I replied stepping forward quickly, I don’t like anyone reading over my shoulder.
“Looks a long list?” Muttered the Doctor matching my step and pointing at the list.
“Is that my name?”
I stopped suddenly, “Do you want to have a look?” I asked him sarcastically.
“If you don’t mind?” Replied the Doctor taking hold of my list.

He scanned the paper, “It says here about checking to see if there are any letters from Lieutenant’s Fanshawe and Wilmot.” He lowered the paper, “Well if there are, they may well come to me. You see I wrote my own letters and placed your letters inside. Sorry!”
I just tutted and replied, “I had better see the postmaster at the Kings Head again!” Then Henri piped up, “It will cost you another sixpence!”
I looked at him, “Oh no it won’t!” I replied with self assurance.

I did however resolve to call at the Kings Head on the way through to the Captain’s lodgings. It was only a short detour, they others weren’t keen but I insisted.
“They won’t let you have the letters anyway,” Remarked the miffed Doctor. “They will come to me!”
I stopped and looked at him, “I’ll get them to deliver them to you then, mind you by that time you may be aboard with us.”
The Doctor pulled a face and remarked sourly, “Unfortunately, I won’t be able to leave the Prison for a least a week at the soonest. They are waiting for my replacement arriving from London, a newly qualified Doctor.” He pulled another face and lowered his tone. “I understand he is the son of one of the civilian board members of the hospital. He’ll damnwell walk into a job for life.” I sensed the Doctor was not happy with the board at the Naval Hospital.

Later as it happened I could see that there was a post boy arriving as we drew nearer to the King’s Head. His scarlet jacket was a bit old and tatty, his boots mud splattered and his mount sweating, he was pulling a second horse that had large brown leather satchels slung either side.
“Looks like there is mail arriving from somewhere.” Remarked the Doctor, “You never know your luck?”

As the post boy drew up, he was met by the livery hands, the second horse was relieved quickly of its packs. Dismounting now, the post boy patted his horse and stretching his legs walked with a pronounced gate into the Inn to see the Postmaster, leaving the stable boys to care for the horses. We quickened our step and were soon following him into the postmaster’s domain. Here we were not alone, now we were amongst a crowd of young penny post boys who delivered the letters locally. There were also one or two Gentlemen and several men all waiting on important letters.

“I never understand why you English call zese men, boys?” Remarked Henri eying up the Post boy now downing a tankard. “He iz fifty if he iz a day old!”
I could give no answer to this. Beside which I was struggling to get nearer to the postmaster who had one of the large leather satchels opened and was passing out letters to the young penny post boys who would immediately speed off.
“There’s one and threepence owing on that Lad!” He would say as the lad took the letter. Then he would take another one out, “Shilling on this!” To the next boy and so on.

I pushed to the front, “Any for a Doctor Hugget?” I inquired loudly over the noise.
He stopped what he was doing, and looked up, “Sir, I only told you, I would deliver your letters when you inquired this morning!” Snapped the Postmaster giving the next lad a letter and saying, “This is from Dublin, one and nine owing!”
I persisted, “That was another matter,” I pointed behind me at the Doctor, “Doctor Hugget is expecting two urgent letters!”
Suddenly I was rudely grasped on the shoulder by a rough looking gentleman who had obviously seen better days. “Wait your turn young man!” Says he, only to be backed up by several others calling, “We were here first.”
“Do you mind, Get in line!” Yelled someone from the back of the room.

“See! They’re all urgent!” Replied the Postmaster still issuing letters to the boys. I backed away and joined the Doctor and Henri by the door.
“They are definitely mad, these English!” Muttered Henri as he quickly moved out of the way to let a young lad run past him. Eventually the Postmaster ran out of lads to send and so he started to deal with the adults. He read out the names on the front of the letters, now and again a shout would go up. “Here!” And the man would step forward pay the cost of the letter before retiring smiling past us into the street. There was nothing else to do but wait, but suddenly the cry of “Doctor Hugget!” was heard.
“That’s you!” I shook the Doctor’s arm.

“That’ll be two shillings Doctor,” Smiled the Postmaster holding out the two letters. The Doctor searched his pockets and came up with one shilling and sixpence. He laid them on the counter.
“Sorry!” He explained I wasn’t expecting to come this way.
“Which letter do you want Doctor?” Replied the Postmaster holding both letters up, he was clearly in a hurry.
“I want both,” Replied the Doctor trying to think.
“I’ll keep one here for you, you haven’t enough money for two!”
The Doctor turned to look at me, I shrugged my shoulders. He turned back to look at the impatient Postmaster, “What if we promise to come back immediately with the missing money?”

The Postmaster started to laugh then he stopped and stared at Doctor Hugget, “Sorry Doctor, I have heard that so many times before!”
The Doctor leant forward and picked out one of the two letters that the man was holding.
“Wait,” I called as I walked over. “How much is he short?”
The Doctor and the man both said at the same time, “Sixpence!”
I let out a deep breath and dug into my waistcoat pocket. I begrudgingly counted out six pennies onto the counter.
“Zere I told you!” Exclaimed Henri, “You did pay another sixpence!” Then he beamed a broad grin.
For two pins I would have stuffed those pennies up his...!
Meanwhile the Doctor had grabbed both letters from the man’s hand.

I was so mad, I couldn’t wait to get out of that place. I stormed off followed by the Doctor and that smiling French idiot. Outside I allowed them to catch up.
“Shall we open these now?” Asked the Doctor waving the two letters under my nose.
I took a deep breath and replied calmly, “Better open them at the Captain’s, he’ll only want to know what they said anyway.”

Not a word was spoken on the short trip to New Street we all were surprisingly silent, it must have been my foul mood, I was snapping at anyone that got in my way. Thank God it wasn’t long before I was rapping the shiny brass knocker onto the black door. It was answered by Mistress William’s supercilious footman come house boy Cyril, who although recognising me, informed me that his Mistress was out visiting my Mother. Then the idiot asked me who was calling. I exhaled a long breath before I told him calmly, who we were and that we were here to visit Captain Clifford.
“If you would be so good as to wait in the parlour Midshipman Brown, I’ll see if the Captain can receive you?” Says he bowing gracefully.

Well, I found myself getting more and more vexed and I couldn’t for the life of me reason why. I stood alone by the window in the parlour and took several deep breaths as I heard the snooty footman slowly climb the stairs and go into the Skipper’s room. I took several more as he slowly returned with the news that we should follow him.
“I know the way, thank you!” I snapped, waving my flipper at the other two to follow me.

We entered the Captain’s room only to find him sitting up in bed perusing the newspaper, he was bracketed by Rose and Cassie on either side of the bed. On seeing me, Cassie rose and smiled, followed by Rose as she saw Doctor Hugget.
“How nice to see you again Doctor,” Exclaimed Rose holding out her hand.
“Doctor Hugget, my old friend,” Remarked the Skipper dropping his newspaper on the covers.

“How nice to see you again Benjamin,” Mocked Cassie holding out her hand. I just stared at it.
“I think Ben is out of sorts!” Remarked the Doctor taking Rose’s hand and glancing over towards me.
“No I’m not!” I muttered.
“I think ze post office man haz upset him!” Remarked Henri dragging the stool nearer the bed. I was just about to round on him when the Captain interrupted.

“Oh, did you get any letters?” Exclaimed a more alert Skipper now folding up his newspaper.
“Two!” Beamed the Doctor flourishing the correspondence.
“Come on then, don’t keep me in suspense!” Remarked the excited Captain now manoeuvring himself into an alert position. The Doctor looked around for a seat.
“Please sit here Doctor!” Exclaimed Rose offering her chair.
“I think there are more chairs in the hallway outside Benjamin,” Cassie pointed to the open bedroom door.

Eventually after I struggled to drag two particularly heavy wooden chairs into the bedroom, no one lifted a damned finger to help. We were all sat around that bed awaiting the opening of the letters. This Doctor Hugget started to do.
“Are these from Fanshawe and Wilmot!” Asked the impatient Skipper.
“We’ll know in a moment Richard!” Remarked Rose holding his hand.

The Doctor smiled and broke the seal on the first letter. He cleared his throat, rustled the paper for effect and then holding it at arm’s length stared at the contents silently.
“Come on Doctor!” Exclaimed the Skipper leaning forward.
“Let me read it, you need a pair of damned spectacles!”
Rose tapped his arm, “Language Richard!”
The Doctor spoke, “It’s from Wilmot!” He is in Bath...”
“...What iz he doing writing a letter in hiz bath?” Interrupted Henri.
“It’s a place, a spa town!” Corrected Rose.
The Doctor continued, “He apologizes for this brief letter, but he says he is in Bath with his aged Father and Mother taking the cure. He says he is quite out of sorts with boredom and your letter.” The Doctor looked at me and then continued, “Came as a welcome distraction. He says he is looking forward to many new adventures and he can make ready to be in Plymouth by the end of the week. He goes on to say that he hopes everything is well with everyone and looks forward to seeing us all again.”

“Well that’s good...” I started to say but was interrupted by the Doctor.
“...There’s a post script. Could you find me lodgings, not expensive ones as my money is not holding up well on this half pay!”
The Skipper instantly pointed at me, “Another item for your list I think.”
Well the brief contents of Lieutenant Wilmot’s letter left us all smiling and chatting amongst ourselves.

“What’s this lieutenant like?” Asked Rose who must have been feeling out of the conversation.
“Nice chap, well bred, his family is well to do and no doubt he will inherit a large estate at some point in the future.” Remarked the Skipper.
“Just don’t put him near drink!” I remarked under my breath.
“Did you say something Benjamin?” Asked Cassie leaning over the arm of my chair.
“Only agreeing with the Skipper,” I lied.

The Doctor started to break the seal on the second letter. Again he cleared his throat and after unfolding the paper, again held it at arm’s length. “Oh! This is from Lieutenant Fanshaw’s Father.” He looked up to see the disappointed faces.
“He starts by apologising for writing, but he though he must inform his son’s friends that it is not possible for his son to join us in Plymouth. He goes on to say he has to inform us that his son has recently been appointed to the command of His Majesty’s sloop, Greyfox and will be sailing for Brest any day now to join our squadron blockading the French in there. Then he just says that his son would want you to know as soon as possible in order for us to offer the position to someone else and not be waiting for a reply. He goes onto say further, that both he and his son wish us well in our new endeavour and he will inform his son on his return whom he is confident will want to communicate further on this matter.

With that the Doctor passed the letter to the Skipper. “Oh well, good for him!” Remarked the half smiling Captain. “Still we have Wilmot!”
I looked around the silent room I expected that they were all thinking the same as myself, that we will have to find another officer. I was proved wrong when the Captain suddenly remarked cheerfully, “At least we have the good Doctor with us again!”
The Doctor looked up and said, “Not for another week you don’t, I have to wait on my replacement. I’m here to have a look at this leg.” And with that he patted the Skippers leg under the covers. I could see the Skipper wince with pain as the Doctor pronounced his abject apologies.

Then he coughed to clear the air and lifting his bag onto the bedside, he further pronounced that it would be best if all leave whilst he examined his patient. We complied with his request and left only to stand around outside the room, wondering what to do next.
“Why don’t you take Cassie for a walk on the Hoe Benjamin?” Stated Rose after a minute of silence. “You can do no good here, come back in an hour!” I looked over at Cassie who smiled and nodded. Taking out my watch I checked the time, Cassie linked her arm in mine and we made ready to descend the stairs. Henri was just about to follow us when he was physically stopped by Rose grabbing his arm and saying something in French, which made Cassie blush and Henri smile at me.
Then Rose added dominantly, “Why don’t you go and find your Arianne?”

Cassie and I spent a good half an hour looking at the views over the sound, the tranquil scene was rather spoilt by the soldiers in the barracks drilling with their cannons. Every now and again, one would go off, a blank charge I presume. Cassie jumped a mile and clung on to me for dear life. I thought this great fun. Not really sure she did though, but I was enjoying the intimacy, well my hands were.

Then that stupid Henri turned up with Arianne. Well, Cassie steeled herself and we separated as she was glad to see a fellow woman. They chatted away in French, whilst myself and Henri examined the shipping moored in the Sound.
Suddenly Cassie turned her attention back to me. “Arianne tells me that your Mother is expecting you home for lunch!”
I looked at both the girls to say, “I had no plans to go home. I never mentioned lunch to her this morning.”
Cassie walked over and held my hand. “She knows from Henri that you are nearby and wants you to have a decent lunch. She is preparing food for us all as we speak.”

“I have to report back to the Captain first, I need to know what Doctor Hugget makes of his wound.”
Cassie looked towards Arianne and spoke in French, to which Arianne nodded and replied.
“Come on zhen!” Exclaimed Henri, “Perhaps your Mother has made some of zhose little biscuits I like.” So within seconds we are making our way back to New Street and Doctor Hugget’s diagnosis.
“Perhaps now the Skipper will be allowed up.” I mused as we walked down the road from the citadel.

Yet the news wasn’t good, in Mistress William’s parlour away from the patient I was informed that the Skipper according to our Doctor still had some deep splinters embedded in the wound, splinters of rotten wood that Doctor Lancaster must have missed or left in to work themselves out.
“I think we need to operate to remove them urgently, else they will fester. It was rotten wood after all.” Remarked a serious Doctor Hugget, who added after a short pause. “It could be serious, he could lose the leg, I am going to see if I can get him into the Naval Hospital, they have all the equipment and knowledge to do this better than I. I’ll ask Doctor Edwards to perform the operation, he’s the best man there. He has removed thousands of splinters from our sailors. So don’t worry.”

I was just going to say, ‘Who would have thought wooden splinters could cause all this,’ when Rose came downstairs to join us. You could see she had been crying and immediately Cassie rushed over to comfort her.
“I’m leaving now, time is of the essence,” Remarked Doctor Hugget. “I’ll return to take the Skipper into the Naval Hospital and see Doctor Edwards personally. I’ll need a carriage! And I need you to take care of Rose.”
Henri piped up, “I will get ze carriage Doctor!” And with a nod from the Doctor he was gone.

Rose sadly mentioned that the Captain was getting dressed, she had offered to help but he had shooed her out angrily, saying that he has been managing to dress himself since he was three and would require no assistance.
“He is probably overwrought,” Comforted Cassie. Soon Arianne joined Cassie in consoling Rose, which left me, and the Doctor twiddling our thumbs.
“I suppose we could go and help him downstairs?” I muttered.
“He won’t thank you for it, he is a proud and a stubborn man!” Came the reply.

So we left it, five minutes later we heard him shuffling around on the top of the stairs. Slowly using the banister as a crutch he made his way slowly down the steps. We all moved towards the door to help but was held back by the Doctor who whispered that it might be best if he arrived in his own time and speed.

Aloft the Skipper had put on his best uniform his new shoes, the only thing that distinguished him from other well dressed naval officers was the bare right shin bandaged just below the knee. On reaching the hallway he smiled at us through the parlour door, as immediately Rose pushed past the Doctor and rushed out to help.

With her help he hobbled into the parlour and sat on a nearby chair to await the carriage. The girls crowded around twittering like so many birds, he was loving the attention. Suddenly he beckoned me over, as I walked towards him, the girls parted allowing me to see him fully.
“You are going to have to add a bit more to that list of yours,” He remarked.
“What’s that then Sir,” I asked quietly, “What would you like me to do while you are staying in the hospital?”
He looked bewildered, “I am hoping to be home tonight!” He stated, then looking behind me at the Doctor, reinforced that answer, “I’ll be home tonight Doctor, isn’t that what you said? Only a minor operation?”

The Doctor walked over answering as he did so, “I did Sir, if all goes well and I am confident that it will, you will be sleeping in your own bed tonight.”
Now Rose piped up, “Well if that’s the case I am coming too!”
The Doctor shook his head, “I’m afraid my dear a Naval Hospital not a place for ladies of a gentle disposition. You will be better off here.”
The Captain looked up, “Yes, you stay here, I will be back tonight.”

Just then there was a clattering of hooves and the sounds of a carriage approaching the door. Cassie looked out of the window, “It’s that coach from the other night Benjamin, your friend is driving and Henri is sitting next to him.”
On hearing that Arianne rushed to the window and waved. Both Rose and myself helped the Captain to his feet and between us, we managed to manoeuvred the Captain towards the front door where the Cyril waited with mine and the Captain’s hat.

“I’m not going! Thank you Cyril!” I responded brusquely when my hat was offered.
The Captain on the other hand took his and we continued to negotiate the front steps and out into the street. By this time Henri had dismounted and was opening the coach door and dropping the steps. It was quite a performance for the Captain to get up into the coach, especially through the narrow and high door, and worse than that there was no room to help him either, but eventually he managed it and sat himself by the window.

 

Rose was nearly in tears, “Chin up Rose, I will be running back tonight,” Joked the Skipper as Rose searched for her kerchief.
“Better get going coachman!” Called the Doctor now forcing his rotund frame through the door and clambering into the coach. There were a few tears as that coach set off, but we consoled ourselves with the fact it was only a minor operation and the Skipper would be back later tonight.

Tuesday 30th of May 1809

We spent a fretful evening last night, Rose between bouts of sobbing paced up and down the parlour awaiting the Skipper’s return, that is until my yawning Mother, in no uncertain terms told her to go home and get some sleep. It was far later than I like being abroad in Plymouth at night, but with Henri as an escort (Mother insisted, although, what use he would be was anyone’s guess). We walked the girls home to their lodgings, there were a lot of drunks, both male and female out tonight and it became very worrying especially the drunken women, they are the worst. But we managed to avoid most, but luckily most were so intoxicated as not to cause a problem. We didn’t come across any belligerent drunks, they are the awful, you never know where you are with them, they can turn on you in an instant.

Both Henri and I were wearing our short swords and although I was not confident that I could use mine, Henri had enough bravado for the both of us. Yet I was glad his bravery was not tested. All I had from Cassie that night was a squeeze of her hand as we walked along and a kiss on the cheek. Still that is more than Henri got, Arianne had retired at the same time as my Mother, just as we were leaving.

Today I awoke to a lovely sunny day that is until I remembered that I was supposed to be meeting my new mentor Lieutenant Broadbent, that ruined the moment. Yet, I resolved to find out if the Skipper had returned first. So early after breakfast I set my watch by the hall clock and left the house to call around at Mistress William’s house in New Street. I no sooner rounded the corner of the street than I saw Henri dressed in all his finery coming down the cobbled street to meet me. “Is he back yet?” I Called.
Henri rushed those few yards towards me and as he did so called, “Came back late last night. He said not to wake you or ze ladies, he will send word he iz back with Cyril.”

“I’ll just go and see how he is?” I replied stepping forward.
“It will not do you any good, he haz had hiz medicine and iz fast asleep! We juzt have to wait now. Well that iz what he said when he returned. He told me zey removed a large piece of wood, he haz it. I have seen it.” Remarked Henri catching hold of my arm with one hand and with the other holding up his thumb and index finger up under my nose in a representation of the length of the splinter.
I whistled, “How did Doctor Lancaster miss that?”

Then shrugging off his hand I thought it might be better to leave the Captain be. And so turning, I replied, “Might be best if we go and see the Lieutenant. Wouldn’t like to be late on the first day.”
Henri twisted his mouth and muttered, “I can think of better things to do!”
I agreed with him, but added, “At least he won’t have his first Mate with him.”

We made our way past the busy Fishermen and Fishwives towards the Watch House steps where we expected to meet the Lieutenant. We waited for several minutes, I swear I checked my watch every individual minute as I paced about impatiently. Just then, in the distance I saw Bess pushing her cart and I immediately stepped backwards and stooped.
“Who have you zeen?” Asked Henri standing on tip toe and craning his neck higher to peruse the faces of the crowd.

“I wonder if the Lieutenant is waiting for us in the Watch House?” I uttered trying to keep my head down.
“He said he would meet us here,” Replied Henri still standing on tip toe and examining the faces of the crowd.
“Well, I just go and see,” I muttered slinking off towards the Watch House.
“Wait, I will come with you!” Exclaimed Henri assuming his normal height.

We made our way over to the Watch House only to find that Officer Bates was on duty today. He was rather busy at the moment letting the previous nights drunks out of the lock up and he wasn’t having a great time doing it either. It is amazing just how drunk a person could get. We patiently waited until he was free, but he was having a great tussle with Bob the drunk, trying to get him awake and up out of the door. After that he had two loud and noisy female ladies of the night to release. It was clear from their overheard conversation that these two ugly trollops hadn’t made their rent money last night so they were still on the lookout for likely customers.

They were propositioning anything in trousers, on seeing us, we became their new potential customers.
The ugly one sidled up to Henri and looking him up and down suddenly grabbed the hilt of his sword, “That’s a big one you have there M’lover...”
It was all quite embarrassing, good job Officer Bates was used to them. “Come on Ruby! Leave the young Gentleman alone!” Exclaimed the Officer pulling Ruby’s hand away from Henri’s sword hilt.

“I’ll have this one Kathy, you can have the little quiet one!” Exclaimed Ruby looking at me.
“You’ll be on your way, that’s what you’ll be doing or I’ll lock you up again.” Remarked Officer Bates pushing them towards the door.
“If we don’t make our rent money today Bertie, we will be glad of being locked up.” Joked Kathy running her hand around my chin.
“Oh he’s all smooth like a babies bottom.”
“Come on Kathy!” Exclaimed Officer Bates dragging her hand away from my chin.
“We’ll be waiting for you outside, I’ll make a man of you!” Pouted Kathy. “You too handsome!” Remarked Ruby blowing a kiss at Henri.

Officer Bates shepherded them towards the door.
“Alright, alright Bertie, we are going, but we may be back, keep my bed warm.” Laughed Ruby.
Closing the door behind them Officer Bates breathed a sigh of relief. “Hearts of gold really!” He stated as he leaned his back against the door. “Now what can I do for you two?”
I looked at Henri and then back at the Officer who was now standing up. “We were to meet Lieutenant Broadbent here this morning!” I replied.
“He’s not been in yet,” came the reply as Bertie made his way back to the desk.

“How’s your Captain?”
“He went to Naval Hospital yesterday...” Officer Bates interrupted, “...You need to count your limbs when you go in there. You’d have to knock me out before you got me near those damned butchers!”
I was stunned for a second then I continued, “They took a splinter out of his leg!”
Up piped Henri, “Zhis big!” He held up his finger and thumb.
“Still has his leg then, that’s lucky, my uncle went in there for a swelling on his ankle, they cured that alright, they cut his damned foot off!” Replied the Officer shuffling some papers. Then he went on to tell us about his friends dealings with doctors, all of the cures were worse than the symptoms. This was getting us nowhere and depressing me to hell, so after checking my watch and fretting over missing Lieutenant Broadbent I made a decision.

You could tell by his tone that Bertie had no love of doctors and especially hospital doctors, so I made our excuses and left. We slowly made our way towards the door and onto the busy quay. Suddenly we were assailed by Ruby sitting on an upturned fish box.
“Hello m’handsome, come to see Ruby have you? Are looking for a bit of fun then?” She rose and dragging Kathy with her, approached Henri.
“Go away!” He snapped as Ruby tried to fondle his neck.
“He’s a tarter and no mistake! You need a bit of relief you do M’lover!” Pronounced Kathy.
“We are very busy today, thank you ladies!” I declared in my best commanding voice.
“Isn’t he masterful!” Cried Kathy.
“I hope he is just as masterful in bed too!” Sniggered Ruby trying to fondle Henri’s neck again.

Now a crowd started to gather and the two harlots played to the crowd. They were egging the girls on with, “Be gentle Ruby, it’s his first time!”
One fisherman, I thought Henry Hibbert, shouted, “Go on Kathy, I’ll pay a penny to watch that!”
The crowd were having a great time, I on the other hand was not.
“Go away, we are not interested,” Replied Henri disdainfully as he stepped backwards.
“You’re foreign?” Shouted Ruby over the noise.
“I’m French!” Came the reply.
“Hear that Kathy, this one’s a Frenchy, they say they make the best lovers.”
“Oh aren’t I a lucky girl,” Remarked Ruby continuing her attack and cornering Henri on the sea wall.

Then Kathy advanced on me, “I’ll only charge you sixpence M’lover, as I like you!” She pouted her lips, I too tried to retreat. Her hands were everywhere, I was bending backward over the seawall and turning my head away much to the delight of the crowd as she tried to kiss me. Suddenly she screamed as her head was wrenched backwards. It was Bess pulling her back by her hair.
“You leave him alone Kathy Parker,” She yelled.
“You bitch!” Replied Kathy trying to grab Bess’ hair. At that point Ruby wadded in to help her friend with a vicious right hook to Bess’ ear.
“Leave her be, you trollop!” Screamed Ruby.

The crowd were loving this, they were cheering and shouting encouragement. Suddenly they parted as Bess dropped her hold on Kathy’s hair and staggered sideways towards the crowd. Then she recovered and clenching her fists in a prize fighter’s pose stood her ground.
“Come one, come all!” She called. “When you’re ready girls!”
Then it started, Ruby and Kathy looked at each other then took up similar stances and separated slightly.
“Let’s get the Bitch!” Called Kathy.
Only to receive the reply from Ruby, “She’s been asking for it for a long time!”

There was a slight pause as they weighed each other up slowly circling each other, the crowd having somehow formed a rough semi circle around them. I thought, someone has to stop this. In an unbelievable act of stupidity I found myself standing in between the protagonists. I threw up my arms, “Stop Ladies!”
Unbelievably the crowd booed me! Bess lowered her fists, “Keep out of this Master Benjamin! You might get hurt.” She called.

“Master Benjamin, the bitch knows his name!” Screamed Kathy.
“Oh that’s the way of it is it, the Trollop wants Master Benjamin to herself!” Shouted Ruby picking up a boathook. “Depriving a working girl of her wages, would you!”
Suddenly I was dragged back by Henri. “Let me go, I have to stop this!” I roared.
“You cannot stop this mon ami!” He replied holding my arm tighter.

Suddenly out of the corner of my eye I saw Lieutenant Broadbent in the crowd and he was staring directly at me. I could tell by the look he was giving me that he was not amused. Yet, seconds later he opened his eyes wide in amazement as Ruby raised the boathook above her head and advanced quickly on Bess who stood her ground, fists up and ready. Down came the boathook and clanged onto the cobbles. Just at the last minute, Bess had neatly sidestepped, now she planted a vicious right on Kathy’s face. Ruby meanwhile had raised the boathook again and was ready for the second strike.

Kathy had reeled back allowing Bess a few precious seconds to turn and face Ruby’s descending weapon, the crowd gasped. But the blow never came.
Belcher had stepped forward and grabbed the end of the boathook. “Play fair ladies!” He shouted to the roar of the crowd. Wrestling the boathook from Ruby he held it aloft to the joy of the crowd just as Bess planted a steaming right on Ruby’s chin. This blow lifted her off her feet and she fell into a basket of newly landed fish.

Now Bess advanced on Kathy who by now had recovered, a tell tale trickle of blood indicated where Bess’ last blow had struck.
“Come on yer bitch!” Screamed Kathy wiping away the blood with the back of her hand. Bess suddenly advanced and ignoring Kathy’s blows, with her left hand she grabbed her opponent by the throat. Suddenly Kathy’s feet were lifted off the deck, feet and arms thrashing as Bess physically lifted her up in the air. Now Bess rained blow after blow on Kathy’s face with her right. Suddenly Bess let go and Kathy’s lifeless body dropped in a pile at her feet.

Looking around with her eyes wild and staring, she caught sight of Ruby just extricating herself from the overturned fish basket. Picking up a large cod by the tail she threw it at Bess. It landed squarely on Bess’ face.
“What the hell!” Screamed Bess as she staggered backwards. Suddenly she was hit by another fish and another as Ruby continually used the fish as missiles. Suddenly she was stopped as Belcher held her arms.
“I told you to fight fair!” Yelled Belcher. “Let go of me, you damned pox doctor’s clerk!” Screamed Ruby trying to land a backwards kick on Belcher’s shins.

But it was too late, Bess had seen her opportunity and advanced quickly on her opponent, “Whack!” was the sound as Bess’ fist made contact with Ruby’s nose. And that settled the matter or should have, Ruby and Kathy were out for the count, but now Bess who standing over Ruby’s prostrate body turned on Belcher.
“Who the hell asked for your help!” Roared Bess, prodding Belcher in the chest with her digit finger. “I could have licked them easy!”

“Not very grateful is she?” Interjected Lieutenant Broadbent stepping forward into the makeshift ring. Belcher made the mistake of smiling. Immediately Bess rounded on him again. “I’ll wipe that damned smile off yer face!” Then she turned to the Lieutenant, “And I’ll thank you to keep your nose out, you po face bastard!” Screamed Bess clenching her fists again.
“Yer welcome to try!” Replied Belcher calmly. The crowd were loving this.
“Come come!” Exclaimed Lieutenant Broadbent standing on a box. “Looks like we have the makings of a prize fight here. I have ten shillings that says my man can whip this...!” He looked down at Bess who definitely wasn’t pleased. “Erm... Lady! Now does anyone want to hazard!”

Wagers were quickly made and a rough prize ring made. Bess was over by the sea wall with her brother Samuel while Belcher handed his coat over to members of the crew on the opposite side. Then he tied his red and white spotted kerchief around his throat. Then I remembered, that was the piece of cloth he liberated from that Tavern we raided.

Satisfied now, both protagonists made their way to the centre of the improvised ring. Lieutenant Broadbent made to officiate.
“You can’t do that,” Shouted someone from the crowd, “You have wagered money on the result. You can’t officiate!”
The crowd then joined in to complain and despite the Lieutenant’s protests would not allow him to be the official of the match.
“Well! Who is it to be then?” Exclaimed the Lieutenant, “Someone will have to see fair play!”
The crowd fell silent and looked amongst their own number. Out of the blue, Henry Hibbert pointed at me, “Let him do it! He started it anyway!”

I was stunned and stood my ground then I shook my head and replied, “I’m having nothing to do with this!”
This caused a pause as the crowd looked around.
“Oh to hell with this!” Shouted Bess and speedily landed a spiteful left in Belcher’s solar plexus. This doubled him up, she followed this with a violent uppercut with her right that sent the Second Mate reeling. The crowd went wild and started wagering again.

The unprovoked attack did not seem to faze Belcher, within seconds he had his fists up and was prepared to defend himself from any more malicious attacks. Then it started, they traded blow for blow, Bess gave as good as she received, at one point she closed in and bit Belchers arm, drawing blood which started to stain his shirt.

Neither protagonists were what you could call handsome before the fight but now after five minutes of pummelling, they were downright ugly. Bess had blood streaming from her nose, her chin was turning bright red whilst Belcher had spat out two teeth. Both had bruises and one of Belcher’s eyes looked red and puffy.

I shouted at Lieutenant Broadbent, “You had better stop this!”
He looked away from the fight and screamed back, “Not I, I have more sense and anyway I have good money riding on the result.” Just then he looked back as Bess moved in again, she caught hold of Belcher’s neckerchief and pulled it taught, twisting it as she did so. Now Belcher was fighting for breath. The crowd was going wild, but not Belcher, he head butted Bess with such a force that it sent her reeling, making her loose her hold on his neckerchief.

As the two fighters separated and recovering, Belcher removed the red and white bit of cloth and threw it on the ground. Then assuming a prize fighter stance again he waited for Bess to recover. But she was not the same Bess that started this fight, blood was running down her face, both from her nose and from the large gash across her temple. She made a shaky effort to match his stance, but everyone could see that one further blow from Belcher would finish the contest.

In runs her brother Samuel between the fighters and throws up his hands, “Enough!” He shouted over the din, “We concede!”
Bess made a valiant effort to continue and for a few seconds she weakly argued with her brother whilst wiping away the blood from her eyes with her petticoat. However, it was plain to all that she was in no fit state to continue, the gash on her forehead would not stop bleeding.

Now it was Lieutenant Broadbent’s turn, up he steps onto an upturned fish box again and shouts loudly, “The Winner!” And he points to the Second Mate, who raises his arm to the applause of the crowd. Then Belcher walks over to a swaying Bess who was with her brother’s help trying to wipe the blood from her face. “Good fight!” Says he and offers her his hand. She reluctantly gives it and Belcher raises it aloft to the roar of the crowd.

I thought at the time, ‘If that was a good fight, what must a bad one be like?’ Still it entertained the Lieutenant who lost no time in collecting his winnings. That was the only time I had seen him so energetic, trouble was, he made it worse by rubbing the loser’s nose in it. He was having a great time, but I don’t think the loser was. I really had enough at that point and walked back towards the Watch House dragging Henri along with me. On the way there I saw Ruby and Kathy plying for trade amongst the crowd, they were in a right state, but they still managed to see an opportunity.

Officer Bates was leaning on the door jamb of the Watch House, “Good fight that,” Says he.
I responded with, “Don’t tell me you had a wager on the result too?” He shook his head sadly.
“Why didn’t you stop it?” I asked turning round to see the crowd melting away.
“Not my job, if they want to kill themselves, then that is up to them.” He replied nonchalantly as he turned to go back inside.

We followed him inside and sat down on the bench only to watch him stand at his desk and shuffle the papers again. “Well gentlemen,” He remarked. “How can I be of help?”
I looked at Henri who said, “We are just waiting for ze Lieutenant collecting hiz money.” Speak of the devil and he will always turn up. Just at that moment, In came a beaming Lieutenant. We both stood as he walked into the room. “That was a bit of luck, made two pounds there?” He chuckled showing us his fist crammed with coins.

“Lucky you!” I muttered under my breath, luckily he didn’t hear me, he was far too busy showing Officer Bates his winnings.
“How’s Belcher?” I then asked.
“Who?” Came the reply as he tried to stuff the coins into his waistcoat pocket.
“Our second mate, the one that just won you the money?” I explained.
“I have no idea,” Came the reply, “He is consoling the loser, I think.” He then turned to Officer Bates to say, “My, my! That’s a scary Woman, wouldn’t like to married to her, would you Bertie?”
The Officer looked up and indifferently replied, “Indeed not Sir, Indeed not!”

“Talking of women!” Exclaimed the Lieutenant turning towards us, “I seem to remember you two in a fracas with two harpies just before that big one came to your rescue. What was it, didn’t you want to pay for their services?” He walked the few steps over to us. I was thinking of what to say, but thankfully Officer Bates spoke up first.

“Nothing like that Sir, they Ruby and Kathy, a pair of our habituals, they were haranguing the young Gentlemen, but take it from me Sir, they were quite innocent.”
Lieutenant Broadbent turned around to face the Officer, “I have never come across an innocent midshipman before Officer, they are always the cause of one scrape or another.”

Then he turned back to us, out came the wagging finger. “Midshipman Brown and you... Erm... Whatever your name is..?” He pointed at Henri.
Henri smartly interrupted “...Henri Tairer, Enseigne de vaisseau de deuxième classe Sir!”
Lieutenant Broadbent looked down his nose, “Well! I am not calling you that mouthful, from now on I shall call you Midshipman err...” He paused trying to think of the name.
“Tairer!” I interrupted.
The Lieutenant carried on, “Tairer! Is that clear?”
Henri nodded, then shook his head slightly and looked at me.

Up went the Lieutenant’s finger between my face and his, “I am not impressed with your attitude so far!” Remarked the Lieutenant. “Captain Clifford warned me about keeping you out of trouble whilst you are under my command. This is your first day with me and really we haven’t started your lessons yet and here you are, two fights with three women, none of whom could be classed as the gentle sex.” He paused for a second. I could see Officer Bates mimicking the Lieutenant behind his back. But I dared not smile. It was really hard trying to keep a straight face, especially when the Duty Officer wagged his finger in the same manner as the Lieutenant was doing.

“However, the Officer here assures me that it was not your fault, so I am going to let it go this time.”
Officer Bates immediately stopped mimicking and winked.
The Lieutenant straightened up, “Nevertheless, let me just warn you gentlemen.” He drew a deep intake of breath before continuing, “Let me warn you to be very careful, my task is to teach you the rudiments of commanding a ship. Tis not my job to play nursemaid or to get you out of scrapes. Any messing about while I am in charge and I will have you caned, big as you are Sir! Mark my words Sir, canned!”

Now he relaxed slightly and standing upright, clasped his hands behind his back, then he continued, “Today we are going to have a look at charts, soundings and sea states.”
I started to speak.
He cut me short with, “Yes I know you have probably done it all before, but I intend to start with the basics and work up. I need to know what you know and what you don’t!”
He looked over at Henri. “And I’ll warrant Midshipman Terrier knows precious little.”
“Tairer” Corrected Henri.
I looked over at Henri, he seemed to be taking it in good part.

“Well!” Continued the Lieutenant ignoring Henri, “If you would please go and round up the boat crew, see if the Second Mate, Belcher you say?” I nodded. “Go and see if he is recovered enough to take us over to the Bee whilst I have a quick word with Officer Bates.”
“Aye, aye Sir,” I uttered quickly as I made my way to the door.

I found our Second Mate amongst our other sailors, Belcher’s face was a picture, well it was composed of red patches that were turning into a yellowy brown. One of his eyes were puffed up and I noticed he had a front tooth missing which made his words whistle slightly. There was also a noticeable red band around his neck where Bess has tried to strangle him, but what he was most concerned with was the bite on his arm. Christ knows where Bess had gone, probably to see medical attention, I had decided to ask her brother, but thought better of it.

Yet, despite all this he took command of the whaleboat and when the Lieutenant did finally turn up we proceeded directly over to the Bee. The first thing I noticed was that our wayward gunners had returned. There they were, standing around in a little group, all looking very sheepish and keeping out of the way. I tried not to draw the lieutenant’s attention to them. God know what he would have done if he had realised they had been absent for several days. ‘Best say nothing,’ I thought to myself. I had a quiet word with Donovan who promised to keep them busy and out of the way with simple seamanlike tasks.

The rest of the day went quickly, we manoeuvred into the sound where we sounded the waters and compared it with the charts. I had my first try at swinging the lead, counting the knots and reporting what muck was stuck to the tallow. It was just as well I went first because when Henri tried it, we lost the lot. He forgot to hold onto the end. His name was mud after that and we spent a good hour trying to fish the line back.

Nevertheless, I learned a good deal about charts from the Lieutenant, he might be a strange sort of craft, but as a teacher he was excellent. Plus the fact that we were also sailing the ship meant I was also re learning the ropes, angles of sails and all the other maritime matters one can only learn by experience and practice.

That night we spent the evening visiting the Captain, playing cards and talking to Cassie and Rose about their future plans. Now it seemed the Skipper was definitely confined to bed, ‘Not to move his leg unnecessarily for at least a week,’ was Doctor Edwards orders. I also saw the splinter the doctor removed, evidently he had to cut deep to remove it. It was about two inches long, thin and black. Of course the Skipper had to have the wound washed every day and a close daily inspection of the injury was ordered by the Doctor. I think that was the polite way of saying, check for the wound smelling. Rose insisted that this was her job and would not countenance the servants attending to the Skipper’s leg.

Wednesday 31st of May 1809

Today at sea we continued Mister Broadbent’s lessons with compass work, here I was a few steps ahead of Henri, I had done all this before. Mind you a three legged donkey would be able to give Henri a run for his money. He was just not taking to learning his seamanship lessons. Admittedly, boxing the compass is quite hard to do, but really it is just a case of reciting by rote, but Henri was definitely struggling, but at the end of the day I think he understood the basics.

Nothing much happened on these trips out, we just sailed out of the Sound, took sightings, compared them with the charts and watched the compass. I learned quite a lot about navigating in coastal waters. Tomorrow we were going to sail out of sight of land, find our position using the sextant then use the compass to make landfall.

That night was similar to the previous night, home for a quick dinner and then rushing around to see the Skipper and report on the day’s events. Rose, Cassie and Arianne were already ensconced around the Captain’s bed, they had obviously been playing cards or reading. I could tell this by the amount of stuff littering the Captain’s floor and bed, newspapers, books, cards. I expect conversation had dried up long before myself and Henri arrived. But as soon as we arrived, for a few minutes at least, our day was the main topic of conversation.

However, later that night Rose remarked that earlier that day, they had heard via Mistress William’s of new houses for sale in Stonehouse, which was about two miles away. The ladies had intended to walk out there tomorrow and have a look. However Mother would not hear of them going alone and insisted that they wait for me to come home to act as an escort. ‘Thank you Mother’ I muttered under my breath.

“Yes, you go along and have a look will you?” Added the Skipper looking directly at me. “I need a male prospective and you are the nearest thing we’ve got!”
Rose playfully tapped his arm, “Don’t be a tease Richard!”
She looked at me and laughingly exclaimed, “Take no notice of Mister Grumpy here Benjamin, he is such a wit!”
To which I replied cynically, “Isn’t he!”
‘Mister Grumpy Eh!’ I made a mental note to remember that nickname.
However on leaving, the Skipper beckoned me over, grabbed my hand, pulled me near and hissed. “Don’t let them buy anything expensive!”

I always walked Cassie home along with her cousin Rose and Arianne. We would always go past our shop where Arianne took her leave. Then we would proceed to their lodgings. Rose would always go in alone leaving Cassie alone with me for ten minutes or so. This night was no different, except I became a little more daring with my hands and was instantly chastised for it. I can never get it right with women, they give you all the signs then slap your hand away.