Post Captain

During the Peace of Amiens, Jack and Stephen rent a house in the English countryside. Jack courts Sophia Williams, and Stephen falls for her cousin, Diana Villiers. Jack's prize agent runs off with his money, and his debts send him fleeing to France. Back home and dodging creditors, Jack takes the Polychrest, a bad ship with a brutal first lieutenant. He and Stephen fall out over Diana and set up a duel that never happens. Jack raids Chaulieu, puts down a mutiny and takes a corvette before the Polychrest sinks. He is made post-captain. On October 5, 1804, he helps capture a Spanish treasure fleet.

1. ReferenceThe battle is real

   The final fight is based on the Battle of Cape Santa Maria, on October 5, 1804, when four British frigates stopped a Spanish flotilla carrying gold.

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2. ReferenceA nod to Jane Austen

   Much of the book happens ashore, among balls and country houses. A 1998 New York Times piece noted it has been called O'Brian's homage to Jane Austen.

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