A List To Starboard / 1909

Name: A List To Starboard / 1909
Author: Francis Hopkinson Smith

By Francis Hopkinson Smith

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Adventure American Literature

About This Book

A veteran ship captain refuses to obey orders to send an aged, poorly maintained vessel to sea with cargo and booked passengers, insisting that rotten boats, caked boilers, and faulty pumps make the voyage unsafe. He confronts company officials who rely on certificates and schedules while minimizing risks, creating a clash between personal duty and commercial expediency. The narrative follows the ensuing disputes, inspections, and preparations, emphasizing the captain's moral stand and the daily routines and technical details of life at sea, and it contrasts professional seamanship with the pressures of profit-driven decisions.

About the Author

Francis Hopkinson Smith

Francis Hopkinson Smith was an American author, painter, and engineer, known for his engaging storytelling and vivid characterizations. His literary works often explore themes of adventure and human experience, with a notable focus on the lives of eccentric and colorful characters. Among his best-known books is "Colonel Carter of Cartersville," which showcases his ability to blend humor and pathos in a narrative that reflects Southern life. Smith's diverse talents also extended to the visual arts, where he gained recognition as a painter. His contributions to literature and art have left a lasting impact, making him a significant figure in American cultural history.