![]() England is under threat of invasion, and though we be on the far side of the world, this ship is our home. They mean to take us as a prize.Īnd we are worth more to them undamaged. They'll try and even the odds for us before we board. Captain Howard and the marines will sweep their weather deck with swivel gun and musket fire from the tops. even crippled, she will still be dangerous, like a wounded beast. and without recoil, there'll be no chance for re-load, so gun captains, that gives you one shot from the lardboard battery. With the rear wheels removed, you've gained elevation. Gun crews, you must run out and tie down in double quick time. Until the signal calls, you're to spill the wind from our sails, this will bring us almost to a complete stop. Topmen, your handling of the sheets to be lubberly and un-navy like. ![]() more than twice our guns, more than twice our numbers, and they will sell their lives dearly. That will test our nerve, and discipline will count just as much as courage. But we must bring them right up beside us before we spring this trap. Right lads, now, I know there's not a faint heart among you, and I know you're as anxious as I am to get into close action. I command a king's ship, not a private yacht! WE DO NOT HAVE TIME FOR YOUR DAMNED HOBBIES, SIR! You see, for my part, I look upon a promise as binding. I shall say nothing of the corruption of power or its abuse. Hurry past inestimable wonders, bent solely on destruction. So, after all this time in your service, I must simply content myself to form part of this belligerent expedition. If wind and tide had been against us, I should have said yes. Making valuable discoveries that could help advance our knowledge of natural history. ![]() I could walk briskly, pausing only to take the most important measurements. I have known you to spend hours staring into a deserted bird's nest. You need to sail around it to continue your voyage. As I understand it, this is a long, thin island. There is, I think, an opportunity here to serve both our purposes. Fascinating, no doubt, but of no immediate application. I cannot in all conscience delay for the sake of an iguana or giant peccary. Subject to the requirements of the service. ![]()
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