The Happy Return

The captain is the first book of CS Forester's Hornblower from the cycle. It was first published in 1937., The original title is " The Happy Return". In the U.S., the book was published under the title " Beat to Quarters ". The film The King's Admiral is partly based on this book.

Action

The book is set in 1806., Spain is still allied with Napoleon. In order to harm Spain, Hornblower is given the task with his frigate Lydia, without being spotted on the road to go to South America to there to support an uprising against Spain. Alongside he reads in his commands, that there almost twice as large Spanish warship, the Natividad, staying, which is to find and destroy it. The same time he should also promote British trade. Then, if he still has time, he may make pinch hunting on Spanish galleons; a pinch would make the poor rich man to captain.

Contrary to expectations, it is possible Hornblower to overcome the navigational difficulties to take the Natividad by surprise and bring the rebellion in motion by an alliance with the half-mad dictator ' El Supremo '. Then he finds out that Spain has become the ally. With great losses he sunk the Natividad. His damaged ship he repaired on a desert island after the Spaniards have denied him any help.

On the return trip he falls in love with Lady Barbara Wellesley, but dares given the greater social difference not to approach her. ( In the novel, Lady Wellesley is the younger sister of Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington )

Of course, the Admiralty refused him any prize money for the Natividad. His achievements are not recognized; without them there would have been fewer problems with Spain. A less efficient captain had more recognition.

Forester Hornblower describes as a shy, self-deprecating man who nevertheless, when it comes to great achievements is capable of.

• Literary work
• Literature ( 20th century)
• Literature ( English )
• Novel, epic
• Cecil Scott Forester