The Lieutenant and Commander

Choosing a place in naval service gives Basil Hall the starting point for these autobiographical sketches. He considers how a young lieutenant can develop practical skill and sound judgment, describing officers whose interests range from ropes and rigging to science. Personal experience supplies the framework for an account of the responsibilities of lieutenants and commanders, with attention to duty, discretion and humane leadership.

The chapters move between tropical voyages and the daily work of managing a ship. Alongside reflections on promotion and command are explanations of trade winds, shipboard routines, boats and preparations for sailing. A passage about the ship's monkey shows the rough practical jokes exchanged among sailors and marines, including their painful consequences. Hall's combination of professional advice, travel observations and incidents aboard ship offers readers a close view of naval life, particularly the choices behind keeping a crew and vessel in order.