About this story
Everyone has spent the heat under awnings, yet Tom Long buttons his coatee as if discipline can cool the air. You step into this one-chapter preview with Dick Dunnage at the center, where choices turn on the people, promises, and pressure already in the room. The Startler steamed onward while Tom's vow remained unanswered. The chapter closes on a continuation question rather than resolving the novel's larger arc.
How it opens
At sunset HMS Startler carried sailors, four companies of soldiers, and the British Resident's party toward Campong Allee.
Bob RobertsEveryone has spent the heat under awnings, yet Tom Long buttons his coatee as if discipline can cool the air.
The young ensign buckled on his sword and returned your stare from beside the cabin ladder.
Ensign Tom LongA naval boy with a dirk should not look so critically at an officer properly dressed for drill.
Bob RobertsThreats grow wonderfully tall when the bugle is ready to carry their owner elsewhere.
Hold your ground without turning a childish rivalry into a challenge that delays the soldiers' formation.