Episode 85 - The Letter of Marque (Part 9)

A deeply philosophical Stephen seems an unsuccessful matchmaker. Jack designs a "Love Boat" interior. There's an intelligence mission, a copycat Nelson plan, opera, grace, virtue, music, words, art, scent, lots of rain, and plenty of references - this episode has it all! Ch 14 part 1.

Just as everything turned around last chapter - get ready for them to turn again! In this short chapter, Jack tries to work his way on the Lively. Stephen makes a stunning find ashore. And Jack learns why you have to be careful what you wish for. Ch 13.

Jack learns his fate from the Admiralty and faces new challenges, including Stephen. We learn about bees, ideal friendship, crack ships, leadership, dog watches and the reason behind the book's title, as the story takes an unexpected turn. Ch 12.

Amid high tension between Jack & Stephen, Stephen makes a momentous decision and Jack does not. Circumstances force Jack to step up in his leadership role. He tries to sell the crew on their mission - Everything goes well until it doesn't. Things get crazy and Jack goes for broke until things actually break, and he ends in a large pool of blood. Ch 11.

This week we're looking forward to talking with author Steve Maffeo about the world of naval intelligence, its portrayal in the O'Brian canon, the connection to Lord Nelson, and also a sneaky look ahead at events that are coming up in the closing chapters of Post Captain.

Stephen sees Diana and Sophie before leaving on his secret mission. Jack returns from the Baltics. Heneage Dundas asks Stephen to deliver a warning to Jack, and things get really bad - before they get even worse. Ch 10.

Jack assesses the crew, has an opportunity to re-rig the Polychrest, and displays an unusual talent. We learn about new sails, Stephen's particular skills and an old enemy. Jack has another opportunity to come through for Admiral Harte. Ch 9.

We learn more about Jack, Stephen, Sophie, and Diana's feelings. Tension mounts between Stephen and Jack. There's an intelligence mission, a notion of the sublime, a grand dinner with three rivals, more trouble with Harte, and Jack ashore. Ch 8.

Stephen joins the Polycrest and wonders about his relationship with Jack. Pullings returns and celebrates his promotion. There are perils afloat, a run-in with debt collectors, more bear references, disputes over discipline, mutterings of mutiny, and the return of Admiral Harte. Ch 7.

Jack meets with the new First Lord. He and Stephen attend Queenie's party and reunite with Sussex neighbours. Beware of bailiffs, footpads, and what you wish for - especially back on shore. Ch 6.