Arriving in Java, we pick up the rest of the British mission, hear troubling news about Britain's banks, track down a Dutch anatomist, and press on to Pulo Prabang to prepare for meeting the Sultan and the French. Plus we talk about Stamford Raffles, and all things oriental, with guest Josh Provan. Ch 6.

The Diane begins a long, perilous journey around Africa towards Pulo Prabang. There are contrary currents, cuttlefish, cathedrals of ice, confessions and copulation. Oh, and Kerguelen. Curious? Ch 5.

Jack worries about his new purser and the crew starting to think this is an unlucky voyage. Stephen gets a surprise visitor in Lisbon, Jack meets the son of an old shipmate, and the backward glances at Master & Commander continue, as we wonder where Sharpe and Hornblower have got to. Ch 3, Ch 4 (Part).

Stephen’s bankers frustrate, a prize takes flight, the new purser impresses - just not favorably. We find out why Master & Commander was such a great prelude to The Thirteen Gun Salute, as the “United Irishmen curse”, which hunted Dillon, descends on Stephen. Ch 2.

After we all get caught up on who is aboard & why, the Surprise leaves on the long-promised secret mission to South America. We learn the reasons she departs so quickly, and what new developments are flowering between Stephen and Diana. Ch 1.

The Sophies are now prisoners of the French, as a battle with the English starts. We are spectators at the first and second battles of Algeciras and have a front-row seat at Jack’s trial for losing the Sophie. We learn about emotions, courts-martial, and big squadron actions all while enjoying the Rock of Gibraltar. Ch 12.

The Sophie, victorious, enters Mahon, as Jack reunites with Molly. There’s an unexpected end to the Cacafeugo and two unexpected missions. We learn about peccant parts, revisit the Music Room in the Governor’s House (with some Boccherini this time), remember Dillon, light up the sky and get close to the French. Ch 11.