1756 Ben Brown and the Smugglers

1756

Ben Brown and the Smugglers

By

William Bertram

Published by William Bertram at Smashwords

Copyright 2013 William Bertram

Chapter I

Wednesday 20th August 1755 on the Barbican

It was warm day in August when a young man in high spirits rushed out of a shop and ran down the crowded streets of Plymouth towards the Barbican. Breathless now, he continued to run headlong along the cobbled waterfront, jumping over boxes and coils of rope that were part of the working scenery of Plymouth's busy fishing port. Finding his way blocked by some of the fishwives gutting the newly landed fish he suddenly swerved, turned and jumped over a box of fish that had just been thrown from a fishing boat. Ignoring the curses and shouts from the fishermen and their wives, he darted up New Street and down Damnation Alley until he arrived at his own front door. Leaning on the thin door frame, he bent low and breathed heavily trying to recover his composure. After a few moments, he stretched his torso straight, took a deep breath and opened the door. The interior was dark and dismal, taking off his hat to save it from scrapping on the low beams, he looked around, there was no one in the plain sparsely furnished interior, but then again, he would have known this, his Father, (a fisherman by birth) would be coming onto land soon and his mother would be helping the other fishwives gut the fish until Father moored their boat and then she would be helping to land the catch, (mostly crabs and lobsters); and he as a dutiful son should be with her when their boat comes in.

His Mother, Jane Brown was a good looking woman of about thirty five years of age, with black hair and blue eyes, of small stature, she could become really fiery when roused and God help anyone rousing her, for she did not suffer fools lightly. Mrs Brown was born into a tradesman family, had met, and fell in love with a rough diamond of a man, a lobster fisherman called Benjamin Brown who she had set her cap for and eventually married. However, being now a poor fishwife she had acquired a few rough edges from working amongst her new peers on the quay, but deep in her heart she still treasured her memories of the finer moments and exquisite things in her early life. Although now in her married life these items were few and far between, yet when she acquired one, she treasured it. She would dream of the day when fortune would smile on them and lift her and her family out of the drudgery of this fishing community.

The Brown family was quite lucky, for Mr Brown had two jobs; his main job was as a Skipper, when his boat was contracted for the company servicing the Eddystone lighthouse. He was needed when the keepers were changed, or when they needed victualling, or to carry material and labourers to repair the effects of the winter storms on the wooden structure that protected Plymouth's seaways and seamen. Occasionally to make a few extra pence, they would take out a few sightseers, important wealthy people just trying to fill their long day with interesting activities.

He had also arranged for his son Ben to be employed by the Eddystone company too, this was quite lucky because the job also came with an exemption certificate from the Admiralty against being pressed into Royal Navy Ships. Both Father and son were on the books as employees of The Company in London, but his Father collected both wages and gave Ben a portion.

The Skipper of the Eddystone boat was a simple man in his late thirties, standing about three inches short of six feet, his frame tended to be very muscular from all the hard work and rowing he had been doing all his life. His hands were typical fisherman's hands scarred and powerful and his legs were in proportion to his body, with strong legs that anchored him firmly to the rolling and pitching deck of his boat. His dark brown hair was just starting to see the effects of ageing, flecks of white were now appearing on his temples and around his ears. His face, was neither handsome nor ugly and although capable of looking serious at times, now and again still reverted to the boyish enjoyment of his youth when that charming smile which had first attracted his wife to be, reappeared.

Here was a man typical of the down-to-earth sort of fellow that abounded in the fishing industry. He wore simple clothes that befitted his profession, normally a white cotton shirt and a black short coat with dark breeches with grey fisherman stockings. In the winter, he wore a blue knitted jersey that his wife had made for him during the long summer nights and to complete the ensemble a knitted blue fisherman's cap for when he was at sea. However whenever on land, Ben senior would sport the more common black tricorn hat with white edging, but this type of hat was no good when afloat, not without being tied securely to his head first.

This year Mr Brown had been exceptionally busy, Mr Jessop the company's inspector had already been out just before Christmas to examine the lighthouse that Mr Rudyard had built, he found that the tower needed major repairs this year. Now in late August after the repairs had been completed, he was satisfied that the tower was in good shape for the oncoming winter storms and Ben and his Father looked forward to settling into a routine which included a lot of crab and lobster fishing.

So on this warm August day, his son Ben was walking through the cool single room that served as both living room and kitchen to the family, he hurriedly climbed the stairs two at a time, bounding up the stairs as he always did, he went into his room. There he looked around for a second before going over to the corner of the room and grabbed the handle of his sea chest. Giving the handle a tug, he dragged the old wooden chest away from the wall. Manoeuvring himself behind the chest, he dropped to one knee and taking out his fisherman's knife started to lift the small floorboard that was in the corner. Now groping in the dark between the floor joists, he lifted out a purse. Smiling to himself and standing upright, he emptied the contents on the bed. A shower of coins hit the rough grey blanket; he started to count the money until he had two shillings worth of coins. Suddenly, a bright new shilling embossed with George the second's head, was glinting in the meagre rays of sunlight emanating from the small cracked window attracted his attention. I'll take you too, just in case, he said under his breath.

Quickly, he collected the smaller pile of coins that were left and returned them to the purse, swiftly pulling the strings tight, he replaced the purse betwixt the floorboards and ceiling, and then he returned the wooden floorboard and chest to their original positions. Suddenly he caught sight of himself in the small cracked mirror he had rescued from the customs house after it had been broken during one of the heated arguments between the homecoming sailors and the excise men.

In the reflection he saw a young man, about 14 years old in a white shirt, blue waistcoat and buff trousers with white fishermen stockings, he turned admiring himself in the mirror, moving slowly backwards to see his whole appearance. His upper body was quite strong, being that he had been helping his father on the lugger for a good seven years. His Father and Uncle had both said that he would make an excellent sailor. It wouldn't be long before his father would apprentice him to a ships carpenter or sailmaker and he would leave Plymouth to sail around the world and make his fortune.

Today he wasn't with his Father, today was Wednesday, and on this day of the week, he had been having reading, writing and arithmetic lessons with Mr Parish the ship chandler in his Southside Street shop. Benjamin or Ben for short was contracted to help Mr Parish in his shop one day a week in return for lessons. However, when the fishing boats started to return after the tide turned Ben was wanted on the quay to help unload and gut the fish. Today, he was late, or will be late if he doesn't get down to the quay fast.

Jumping down the last few steps that led the main room, he darted through the open door grasping the edge and closing it swiftly on the run. He was away then, squeezing past the carts and paraphernalia that littered the narrow Damnation Alley, he bounded onward towards the quay. Past the island house and quickly adeptly manoeuvring round boxes and nets towards the quay side, where he abruptly halted, well truth to be told, he could not go any farther without getting his feet wet. He scanned the sea lanes of Plymouth sound for the red sails of his Father's boat. Beneath his feet was a hive of activity, nets being sorted, catches landed and a host of other things that were necessary to fish. Around his head flew a noisy crescendo of shite-hawks, but Ben hardly noticed these sea birds now, except when one or the other became so audacious as to steal a good fish, they were welcome to the guts, but not good fish that would bring money and food into the poor houses of the Barbican.

Not being able to see his Father's boat, he turned around to see Uncle Joe doing his tricks with the gulls, placing bits if fish guts on his outstretched arms allowing the gulls to alight and take the fishy morsel. This was all right when the big-wigs came down to see how the poor lived, or to use the ferryman to go to Mount Battern, or out to a waiting ship or a trip to the Eddystone lighthouse. Not unfortunately with the local fishwives who told him in no uncertain terms to go away and take his screeching friends with him.

Watching the commotion with Uncle Joe, Ben suddenly thought, Do I have time to get back down to the pawn shop? I have the money and there is no sign of our boat. Damn it he exclaimed aloud and started running again. Down the quay and along Southside Street, he jumped, dodged and wove his way around or over the obstacles that were blocking his path. Suddenly, he was in Nutt Street and looking up at the three balled sign of the Pawn Broker. The shop looked dark, dingy and damp. The dingy nautical items hanging on the wall, damp and smelly slop chests of clothes all added to the ambiance and indeed the smell.

He had been here several times in the past when Mother pawned the tableware or her elegant teapot her one prized possession, a pretty thing, a woman should always have one pretty thing, she had said many times on many occasions, returning a few days later to reclaim the same. But today was different, Ben had his eye on a particular item, a telescope and today he was going to have it. His eyes now adjusted to the darkness, he could make out Silas struggling in the corner trying to move a large wooden sea chest. The chest itself had been painted black, but the brass catches and nails reflected the small amount of light from the open door. I will give you a hand with that Silas, said Ben cheerfully. Where are you going to put it? There is not much room to put anything in this shop is there. Silas looked up, Oh, is it you Ben? Silas had an accent and a way of phrasing things that betrayed his roots. His family was in the prize money game, slops and bum boat business. Silas' job was to watch the shop, owing to the fact that unlike the rest of the family who were business men, Silas had not been in the queue when that talent had been given out and so he was unfortunately detailed to mind the shop when the rest were out selling their wares to the Royal Navy which included (much to Ben's Mother's disgust) ladies of easy virtue.

I need it over dare ven my brothers get home later tonight, it has to be emptied and filled with slops for Agamemnon which is leaving for ze American colonies at end of der veek. Ben caught hold of the rope handle and pulled the chest upwards, but it was so heavy he hardly moved it. What have you got in here then Silas? puffed Ben, as he let it drop on the floor again. Just some old slops, said Silas raising his shoulders and letting his neck sink into them. It's more than that in there Silas, said Ben trying to lift it again, We could drag it, but we would have to clear a path and look at this place? I take some clothes out, said Silas has he started to lift the lid, Don't really know vhat is in here myself, Rubin got it of a Bristol merchant seaman last night who needed money quickly. Ben lifted the only source of light a lantern over towards the chest and peered over the lid. Might be full of gold coins Silas chuckled Ben, If it is, you can have half, responded Silas. Ben thought, in my dreams that would be, would it Silas? I know how miserly and careful with money your family are.

Silas proceeded to empty the chest, smelly seaman's jackets, breeches, a pair of mildew encrusted boots and three large cannon balls. That's why this is so damned heavy Silas, he obviously didn't want anyone to run away with his chest. What he got in here that is zo special den? muttered Silas as he started to remove the balls. Not these clothes anyway, replied Ben as he started to use his finger and thumb to lift a smelly pair of breeches. Instinctively his head bent away from the source of the smell as he covered his nose with the other hand.

Swiftly grabbing an old sword, Silas started to measure the distance from the inside of the chest to the top and compared it with the distance on the outside. No false bottom then Silas. No secret drawers either added Silas disappointedly. Still, it is quite a solid chest; I wonder why he weighted it down. Ben suddenly had a thought, Why don't we examine it for marks, names, might get an idea of its history Silas. After a few moments, Silas muttered, there is some writing here, but I can't make it out, bring der lamp a little closer Ben. Ben brought over the old single candle lantern that gave out a faint glimmer. That's no good Silas can't see a thing, have you a new candle? Vot, am I made of Money? exclaimed Silas.

Let's get it outside then, said Ben lifting the nearest rope handle. Quickly the young men, lifted and dragged the box outside, Now, turn it over den, let's see vhat is on bottom of chest, said Silas. Ben lifted up his end until the chest stood rather precariously on the other. Hold it there Ben, said Silas quickly as he crouched and slivered to the other side to inspect the base of the chest, after a few moments Silas mumbled No, nothing here, let down gently Ben Both boys then started to examine the chest in detail, where's that writing, then? Ben was already tracing out the letters with his fingers, Here motioned Ben eagerly with his other hand. Ben started to read out the letters, H, E, N, R, Y...Henry, A, V, E, R, Y, Avery. Who? Queried Silas, Henry Avery, Never heard of him Neither have I said Ben, But it is a nice chest though, very solid." Ben looked at the chest closer now, he started to tap the top and lift the lid.

Silas' eyes lit up, suddenly he was interested, money was about to talk, You need chest Ben. Ben scoffed, No not me! Yes you do, you going to sea soon and you vill need it den. Silas was putting on his condescending salesman's voice. But I haven't come for a chest; I have come for that telescope that I have been eyeing up this last week. Oh Ja, splendid telescope, ah Ja Silas was rubbing his hands now. Here was a chance to impress the family and to show he is was not the useless member of the Jewish business community that they told him he was.

No you don't, cried Ben adding, I know that look, I can't afford both, looking down on the chest. Mind you it is a well built one. Silas grabbed his arm, You don't know how much is yet. Bet it is more than I have? said Ben sheepishly, looking away from Silas' eyes. How much money you have then Ben? Asked Silas with a similar stare to a hungry cat as it creeps up on an unsuspecting bird. Oh no, I am not that silly, said Ben loudly, I didn't just get off the boat from Cornwall. He paused, How much does you want for the chest? Silas smiled and paused a moment while he tried to think of the maximum amount of money he could extract from Ben without scaring him off. Nice chest this, mumbled Silas, I suppose I let you have it vor 2 shillings?

Is that with the telescope? said Ben hopefully, but knowing damned well it was not. Ben, Ben, are you trying to ruin me? remarked Silas patronisingly. The telescope we agreed was 9 pence, it should have been a shilling but you reduced it because it was me and if you remember, I am your friend, whispered Ben. Silas looked worried, he glanced around and placed his finger to his lips, Ssssh, you know vhat my family are like, dat was our secret. So how much for the two then Silas? Asked Ben quietly, whilst looking around furtively.

Ben, Ben you are killing me, Silas whinged. Ben looked at Silas, 9 pence for the Telescope and 2 shillings for the chest, 2/9, Ben's voice raised slightly, Silas I just don't have that much, I can maybe get 2 shillings and 6 pence, but you will have to wait till I come back. Ben reached into his pocket for the money, Look Silas, I have 1 and 9 pence on me and if you will help me take this chest home, I will get you the other 9 pence from my room.

Can't you manage chest yourself Ben? asked Silas. Well you couldn't, could you? Replied Ben cheekily. Alright, alright, already, give me der 1/9 and I vill just ask Mutter to vatch der shop. Silas took the money and disappeared back into the gloom while Ben looked at his new acquisition. I must be mad, what will Father say? He tried to lift the chest, although he could just about lift it, he couldn't carry it far.

Good job it is empty, Ben muttered to himself trying to lift it again, or did Silas leave those cannon balls in there? Suddenly, Silas reappeared, Alright, grab your end, let's go, before Zacharias gets back und misses me. Ben picked up the handle and dropped it straight away, aren't you forgetting something Silas? queried Ben quietly as he turned to face Silas. Dat you are robbing a poor Jew? Answered Silas sarcastically. I was thinking about my telescope, said Ben raising his voice. Oh ja, I get it now, Silas disappeared into the Gloom again, swiftly returning with the shiny brass telescope with a black leather grip. I put it in chest Ben, said Silas as he lifted the lid and placed the telescope inside.

With two of them carrying the large chest they were home in no time at all, suddenly they were at Ben's house, there was still no one at home save the cat who scooted off upstairs. As they manoeuvred the chest through the narrow door, Ben said loudly, don't scratch the door Silas? You are going to have to move dat table or ve are not going to get chest in? replied Silas at the same time. Alright Silas, put it down for a moment while I make room, said Ben as he let down his end and started to walk further into the gloom. He started to move furniture about, horrible scraping and sliding noises were emanating from the main room when Ben's father arrived. What's going on here? asked the fisherman. Oh hello Herr Brown, I vas just helping Ben mit his new sea chest, replied Silas whilst with the next breath shouting into the house, Ben, Ben your Vater is home.

Well, you can just help him take it back again, can't you? interrupted Mr Brown in an angry voice and just how much has he paid you for that coffin? He paused as he looked at the large sea chest blocking the door, And get that thing out of here, I need to go inside, he continued with an angry voice.

Just taking it to my room Father, shouted Ben from inside the dark house. Oh yes and just how are you going to get that coffin up the stairs? Mr Brown shouted back, now turning to Silas, didn't I tell you to get that thing out of here? I can't move it on own Herr Brown, came the pathetic reply. Oh for God's sake swore the older man as he started to climb over the blockage. Then he bent over grabbed the handle and said, Grab your end and lift, The two men then heaved the chest back into the street again, but not before it removed some green paint from the door. Now, look what you have done, take the damned coffin back to your family's shop, snorted the Fisherman.

Suddenly, Ben appeared interrupting with, I thought we were taking this upstairs Silas? Ask, your Vater Ben, answered Silas sheepishly. He didn't have to ask, for at that moment Ben's Father sarcastically asked, couldn't you get a bigger chest Ben? Just look at the size of this thing, Ben's father now started to examine the chest, why do you need something this big, you will have to lug it around from ship to shore you know, down hatches and through bulkheads. Father Brown looked up at his son, shook his head in disbelief, sighed and said, You be pots for rags mate, are you a bit deficient in the noodle department Ben? Then he went back to examining the purchase.

The Fisherman was minutely examining the box now. Just a minute Silas, he exclaimed, there is a name here... Not stolen is it? I have heard how your family does their business. Silas lifted his eyes from the ground and assumed the mantle of indignation. Nein it is not, Herr Brown his voice rose slightly and his accent reverted back to his native tongue, Ve have it von some Bristol merchants who brought schiff round to trade in Plymouth. Quickly adding the old well used line, und ve have receipt.

Mr Brown looked straight in Silas' eyes So this chaps name on the chest is a Bristol man is it, what name is it then? He bent down to have a closer look, then he started to read the name, Henry, Henry Ave, and he stopped suddenly. Mr Brown was suddenly silent as he examined every inch of the outside of the chest and then started on the inside, taking out the telescope and hurling it at Silas, who just about caught it; Yet there at the top of the inside lid were some more words that the boys had missed. The Fisherman quickly dropped the lid shut with a crash. Turning now to his son, he straight-faced asked, Have you paid Silas for this Ben? In a manner of speaking, answered Ben quickly, wondering what was coming next. I have part paid it and was going to get the extra money from my room. Go get it now son. there was an urgency in his voice that Silas picked up on. As Ben rushed upstairs Silas moved nearer to Mr Brown, he tested the waters, of course I can always take it back sir he exclaimed rubbing his hands together. No, No, Mr Brown was on the defensive now, we agreed and I suppose Ben must learn a lesson from this. No, we will have to pay our debt. After all it is a fine chest, and he patted it lovingly, Silas started to lift the lid to see what Mr Brown had seen, saying, you can see quality inside, but Mr Brown quickly sat down on the chest. Comfortable too," he interjected.

After that, Mr Brown was not going to move and changed the subject by starting to ask about the telescope. Ben bought this too, offered Silas; perhaps you vould like to try on quay? Hoping to get Mr Brown to move, maybe later," answered Brown Senior. Just then, Ben reappeared and counted out the nine pennies into Silas' waiting hand.

Right, said Ben's Father, Shake hands on the deal, adding, you had better get back to your shop now Silas. The two young men approached each other; shook hands slightly bemused and said their goodbyes. I will help Ben inside with the chest, oh and I believe that telescope is Ben's? With that, he snatched the telescope and hurriedly turned Silas around in one smooth movement and more or less pushed him in his shop's direction. Thank you Silas, he called after the young man. Silas seemed perplexed to Ben as was Ben himself.

Wasting no time, Ben's Father started to lift up one end of the chest, come on Ben, let's get this chest inside. Ben responded by lifting up his end and started to walk backwards into the gloom. What was all that about Father? asked Ben. I will tell you in a minute," answered his Father. Just then, Ben's Mother turned up carrying a basket of fish.

With a What the blood and guts is that? she pointed to the large chest being manoeuvred into the room and added sourly, I am not having that thing in the dining room. It's going into my room, cried Ben, straining as he tried to lift it over the table. I doubt this thing is going to go upstairs, added his Father, although it might just go, if we turned it on its side.

Anyway, after numerous curses, scratching of the plaster and unhelpful and sarcastic advice from Ben's mother, the chest was finally sitting in Ben's room and both Ben and his Dad were sitting winded on the lid. Ben's Mother followed them up the stairs with a broom to give them; in order to sweep the fallen plaster. Now I am really vexed, said Mother and it was from her mouth a few seconds later that someone finally asked, just what is going on with that chest, I know you Father, normally you wouldn't give it houseroom?

Ben's Father raised his head, looked at his wife and said quietly, you are absolutely right, if this was a normal chest, it would be back in the Jew shop now. Ben suddenly saw the light, so what is special about this chest then Father, he asked politely. Both men were standing up now and looking at the chest, well, said his Father, it is not the chest, it is who owned it before. Ben's Mother now intrigued moved a bit closer to have a look at the chest. Tis just a normal chest, isn't it? she asked; missing the point altogether. Well, said the Father, just look closer here, he pointed to the carved letters. Mother went nearer, knelt down and peered intently at the letters. Father opened the lid and said, Look here too? Mother was mystified, It says Fancy. Well what about it? she asked standing upright again. It is just the previous owner's name, a sailor probably and his ship, is it not? she asked. Yes, replied Father, but not just any sailor or just any ship. Let's go downstairs, get the fire lit and a meal cooking and I will tell you all I know."

After dinner, when the family was relaxing, Mother again brought up the subject of the chest and why it is taking up space in Ben's room. Do you know Henry Hall who we take out to the lighthouse now and again? said Father, What old Henry, Grandfather's friend? exclaimed Ben sitting upright. He always thinks a lot about this family, he is always giving me a half penny or two when he sees me. Just how old is he then? Mother interrupted, he is 94, Mrs Goodman told me the other day and she should know, she looks after his house whilst he is on duty as a keeper, he lives alone and is a very solitary gentleman, look at his profession, lighthouse keeper, the solitude would drive me to distraction.

Ben looked up at his Mother and said 94, that's a good age, so he was born in... He looked thoughtful as he mentally calculated Henry's date of birth. 1755 minus 94 should be erm... about erm...1661. His Father looked at Mother, winked and teasing Ben said quietly, You were wrong Mother, it looks like those lessons with Mr Parish were some use after all. Ben screwed up his face and decided to ignore his Father.

Father changed the subject back, King Charlie had just returned and they were thinking about building the citadel about that time. So it was just after Cromwell then, said Mother, that would explain why most of the guns on the citadel wall face the town and not the sea. They were probably afraid of another revolt by the town. Aye, most of the people round here are revolting, chuckled Ben, ducking in case Father clipped him around the ear for being cheeky. But it was his Mother who caught him playfully with the palm of her hand this time, Ouch, exclaimed Ben holding his ear. That mouth of yours is going to get you in trouble one day, scolded Father.

Well in any case he is very sprightly for his age, exclaimed Ben loudly changing the subject. Aye, puts many younger men to shame, chuckled his Mother and she looked in Father's direction. Ahhmm, said Father clearing his throat. Anyway the rumour is, and don't mention this to anyone, he looked around the room before carrying on, the rumour is, he was with Henry Avery the famous pirate. Captain Avery was born around here, just over at Cattedown Father pointed his flipper in the direction of the quay before adding, he was a distant relative of mine. Ben picked up his ears and cried out suddenly, That's the name on the chest isn't it?

Father leaned back and gave a knowing wink. Aye and Fancy is the name of his ship, so that kind of proves that it was his. I'll warrant if you ask Mr Hall he will deny it, but do you remember when we were forced to run for Fowey and we had to spend overnight with him that time, he turned to Ben, remember? Ben nodded. Father continued, well he let it slip then, he was in contact with Avery until he died, but he swore me to secrecy, so Sssh, and he put his finger to his lips.

Anyway, this is Avery's chest, no doubt about it, added Ben, shame he didn't leave a ruby or two in there for his kin. You have looked, I suppose, said Mother has she slowly backed her way to the stairs grabbing a lighted candle as she went, suddenly they were all rushing for the stairs, but Father won the race, collapsing breathless on the chest. Mother walked up to him and firmly pushed Father off the chest, then lifting the lid, saying with a raised voice; Bring the other candle here Ben, please. Ben brought the candle and she spoke softly as she took the candle from Ben and lit it. If there is anything left stuck in the cracks it would glitter in the candlelight. You will be lucky, chuckled Father who was now standing behind Ben, slowly he moved nearer the chest. Soon all three heads were inside the chest scanning the interior as the flickering candle was wafted about.

Soon three disappointed heads emerged from the chest, No nothing left said Mother sadly, No secret drawers either, added Ben, adding, It is just an empty chest. Solidly built though, said Father closing the lid. It will last a lifetime Ben, replied his wife. It already has; Henry Avery's stated her son cheekily.

However, added Father, it will be no good for you to go to sea with, can you imagine how heavy it will be full of tools or even your personal items... Father paused for a second to sit back down on the chest. If you are still planning to go to sea, I will have a word with your Uncle Tom, next time he comes back to Plymouth; let's see if he will take you on as an apprentice. Would you like to be a ship's carpenter Ben? Asked Mother. Ben went quiet, buried deep in thought again, until seeing they were waiting for a reply said, perhaps, I am not really sure, what I would like to do, I am quite happy really. Father looked at Mother and then both back at Ben, You will have to earn a decent wage Ben, you need a trade, said his Mother sternly. After all, said his Father smiling, who is going to support us in our old age? Ben looked up and couldn't resist the opportunity, Oh, you won't need me, you are getting quite old now and you managed to support yourself well enough. Turning quickly, Ben made a bolt for the stairs to escape the coming retribution.

The rest of the Brown family then started to make their way downstairs following Ben, who was now sitting near to the warm open fire. I don't suppose I would mind being a carpenter, said Ben whilst poking the fire. Good trade to have son, said his Father as he settled in his chair by the fire. But it all depends on your Uncle, he was talking about coming ashore, the last time we saw him, remarked Mother for a concluding shot before she busied herself with the empty dishes. The conversation went to and thro for the rest of the evening with many plans being made for Ben's future, eventually the warmth of the fire and tiredness overtook them all, till at last they all went to bed.

Thursday 21st August 1755 on the Barbican

So it was settled, the family would commence to outfit Ben for the sea and they would start as soon as possible, probably with buying a more suitable sea chest. The pirate chest was relocated after a great deal of trouble into Ben parent's room, where it became a haven for Mrs Brown's linen and spare blankets.

Monday 1st September 1755 around Plymouth

Time passed and Ben was busy helping his Father catch fish off the Mewstones, watching a long boat row between the Mewstones and the shore. Mother was busy arranging Ben's linen and undergarments to be made by Mrs Hatrey the local seamstress , new shirts were already made and all the necessary items that a boy would need for his first sea voyage were begged, borrowed or bought. Of course, certain items had to be bought, but these were kept to a minimum. One of the first of the necessary items was a smaller sea chest that Ben could carry easily to and from ship to shore.

Tuesday 9th September 1755 around Plymouth

Eventually all was found and now the family were eagerly awaiting Uncle Tom's return. Non more impatiently than Ben himself, every day he would scan the new arrivals in Plymouth Sound with his telescope, but he never caught sight of Uncle Tom's ship, 'The Bristol Castle,' there were many that looked like Uncle Tom's ship, but they were never the right ship. Months passed, even on stormy days when his Father didn't put to sea, Ben would go onto the Hoe and see if Uncle Tom's ship was running before the storm. Yet this was indeed clutching at straws because all seamen know that no ship would put into Plymouth in a storm because the wind would drive the vessel on to the rocks below the Hoe in an instant. Most vessels in a Southwester gale would bypass Plymouth and head for Torbay, which was more sheltered.

Chapter ll

Wednesday 17th September 1755 in Plymouth Sound

On a bright September morning, Ben and his father were just off Kingsand and Cawsands dropping their pots, suddenly a dark blue lugger started to pull out of Cawsands, there they go again, said Father. There who go? echoed Ben. Father looked at Ben strangely before answering, They say that ship, he pointed at the blue lugger, the Sea Nymph, is a contraband runner. For a second Father paused to see the Sea Nymph set her main sail, before continuing, rife with contraband runners in this part of Cornwall. Too much cheap tea, tobacco, alcohol and silks are finding their way from France to Plymouth. Father paused for a minute to tie off a marker. Mr Rolly tells me that the King is sending a special officer to prevent it and they are going to get a new fast patrol vessel rather than that old revenue tub Dasher. He pointed to the hills above Kingsand. They are going to make a base there and have the new vessel patrol the coast here.

Just then, Ben shouted, look there, and Father took his eyes off the lugger to suddenly see a likely looking vessel poke its beak around Rame Head. Slowly more of the vessel became visible and Ben went for his telescope. That's a likely looking ship to be carrying your Uncle Tom, shouted Father as he pointed at the mystery ship. Ben rested the Telescope on the shrouds and scanned the ship. She was brig rigged but had extra trysail mast immediately abaft the mainmast, which identified it as a Snow, just the type of ship that Uncle Tom had shipped out on.

The sides of the ship were painted brown with a broad black band of boot topping which showed she was light in the water. This could be the Bristol Castle, shouted Father over the noise of wind and waves, adding; Let's wait until she passes us and we can read her name on the stern.

Eventually the vessel started to tack into the anchorage, slowly a small boat drew close to the vessel, Looks like the pilot is going aboard Ben shouted Father. Will she be going up the Tamar then? Shouted Ben back. Probably Son, answered his Father. We need to do some fishing and put some pots down if we are going to eat tonight. It is all right the tide will take her right past us, if we line fish off Barn Pool. Quickly, they turned the lugger and made for the pool, they knew the fishing there was not as good, but this was a special occasion.

Slowly the ship gained on the little fishing boat, it was now getting larger and larger, suddenly it seemed as if it was towering over them. A sailor leaned over the Gunwale and shouted. Ahoy fishing lugger, any luck? Ben's Father nodded and replied, What vessel? Bristol Castle, from the colonies, came the reply. Do you have a ship's carpenter called Honey aboard? Shouted Ben's Father. What Tom Honey? Came back the answer followed by, Wait, I'll get him"

Father turned to a smiling Ben, Let's get the lines in and follow her. Those lines never came in faster, suddenly a small sail was hoisted and they were on their way pursuing the Snow into the mouth of the Tamar. Suddenly at the Taff rail a face appeared, Tis Uncle Tom Ben, shouted Father. Ben caught sight of the top half of a clean shaven but 'sparse of hair on his head,' seaman, his remaining hair was now snowy white and being blown into long wisps by the wind, a man of about 60 years. Ben thought, Is that Uncle Tom? He seems older than I remember..

Tom leaned further over and shouted, Ben, I'll throw you a rope, try and get in close. He then disappeared, the tidal race had caught the two ships in the narrows now and they were being bounced about, more so the lugger, because she was a lot smaller. Suddenly a rope appeared to fly from the stern of the ship, but it fell short. We need to catch up a bit Ben, break out the sweeps. Eventually after much effort, the vessels were past the race and into Stonehouse pool. She'll slow down now; we will catch her up soon, as quickly you can use the boathook to grab that trailing rope. Puffed an exhausted Father adding under his breath, I am getting to old for this type of messing about.

Again Tom's face appeared over the Taff rail, they were nearer now, Come on you old bugger, put your back into it, we'll be moored soon, shouted Tom and then collapsing into fits of laughter. He was not alone now, a host of faces were looking down on the small fishing boat enjoying the exertions below, some hanging from the shrouds or standing on the hounds, but most around Tom all were shouting encouragement to gee up the rowers below.

'This is quite an amusement, to those watchers,' thought Ben, 'mind you it always is when other people are working hard and you are not.' Suddenly the rope bobbed into view. Ben quickly secured the sweep and picking up the boat hook, he caught the trailing rope, much to the enjoyment of the sailors above. I don't suppose they have much amusement on board, shouted Father adding swiftly, now Ben secure that rope to the ring forw'd.

Ben was just securing the rope when Tom shouted again, Come on Ben you lazy hound, how's my sister Jane? Instantly Ben looked up, What sister, he turned to look at his Father. She is fine you miserable son of a sea cook, Ben Senior shouted back. 'Oh I understand,' thought Ben, 'Father is a Ben too, this is going to get confusing.'

Once the rope had been secured both ends and the banter stopped, the sailors started to pull the boat into the side of the ship. Tie her on Ben, get her ready and let's get aboard, Said his Father struggling to fend the craft away with one hand with the boathook whilst dropping a rope fender over the gunnels with the other. Ben quickly dropped the small sail and looked around for the bow painter. As they were doing this, a rope ladder was suddenly thrown unceremoniously over the gunnels and part landed with a thud on the fishing lugger deck, the other end secured on the Rover's deck above.

Eventually, all was in readiness for them to leave the lugger and both men climbed up the rope ladder aboard what seemed like a towering craft, but in reality was only a vessel of about 200 tons. Now both men had reached the channels and holding on to the shrouds they climbed aboard and came face to face with Tom Honey, who clamping his flipper around Ben's shoulders said, So, this is my nephew eh, grown a bit since last I saw him.

To be honest, Ben could not remember the last time he had seen his uncle, but here was a small man of about 60 years of age, a ruddy complexion and a brown beard that was just starting to speckle with white hairs. Welcome aboard then, come and meet the Captain, shouted Tom. Pleasure responded Ben Senior as he jumped over a coil of rope to come alongside Tom. Both men reached out their hands in a greeting, which on release of their long handshake; Tom's outstretched hand was thrust at Ben Junior. For a second, Ben looked at the offered hand before grasping it firmly. Welcome aboard, said a smiling Tom. Tis been a long time, since I saw you, you were only that high. He released his grip to indicate on Ben's waist. Yes, said Ben senior adding he will soon be looking for a trade! Tom turned to look at Ben Senior, Not following you in the fishing business then or that lighthouse carry on? asked Tom. Ben Senior glanced at Ben whilst replying to Tom, No future in that, I would like something better for him, I mean the fishing is alright, we won't starve, but we won't be well off neither. Adding quietly, after all, who is going to support us in our old age? He then surreptitiously slipped an arm around the young man shoulders and squeezed playfully.

Tom must have had an idea where this conversation was going, because he changed the subject quickly come meet Captain Muller, I have told him about my relatives and I have already apologised beforehand, he smiled looking at the two men, who instinctively caught the smile and responded with pretend smiles of their own. Tom conducted the two visitors towards a rough looking man standing on the quarterdeck just to the left side of the binnacle. The Captain was dressed in a manner that once would have been thought quite smart, but his clothes now were spotted with the salt from sea spray and his light blue coat that possibly started off dark blue was starting to fray around the edges. On his head was a black tricorn hat, complete with a dingy frayed white ribbon tied in a bow on the right hand side.

Tom introduced them and they all shook hands with Captain Muller, who seemed genuinely please to see them. There were a few pleasantries but Captain Muller really wanted news of what had been happening in England whilst the ship has been overseas and he manoeuvred the conversation around to that. Yet apart from Local news, the Brown family had little to tell, which did not impress the Captain, he being a Bristol man, but other ear-wigging sailors were keen to know.

Meanwhile, Ben could not help his eyes alighting on the Captain's hat and more precisely the white ribbon. The Captain noticed that his hat was the subject of some scrutiny and interjected into the conversation, So, young man, you have noticed I wear a French hat and before you ask, No... it is not showing my allegiance to the Jacobites. No that's right, added Tom excitedly, he took it from a French privateer in the last war. You have been in a sea fight Captain, asked Ben Junior looking round for damage to the ship. Tom piped up, It was a few years ago, off the coast of America and in a different ship. Tis a serviceable hat, so I use it now and again. added the Captain. You must please tell us about it Captain, demanded Ben who now turned to Tom, were you with him Uncle? No, bless you nephew not I, mind you if I had, I might be wearing one too.

The Captain turned to Ben and said quietly, I'll tell you all about it later, but just now, I have to get ashore to see the dockyard superintendant . So if you gentlemen will excuse me, I have things to do. All three men nodded politely and thanked the Captain for his patience.

Well, said Ben senior turning to Tom, will you be coming home tonight Tom? Or will you be coming home with us in the lugger now? Tom looked at Ben Senior, depends when we get paid, I can see if the ship's clerk can pay me off now and then I will come with you, otherwise, worse luck it will be tomorrow. Tom looked quickly around and said snidely, can't see that little bugger anywhere, I will just have to go and find him, he owes me a kindness anyway from when we were in Boston. He winked at his brother in law and continued. Hopefully, I can get him to give me a ticket for my wages that I can cash at the shipping office? No sooner said than Tom had turned and was heading for the companionway. Ben Senior shouted after him, And just what are we supposed to do while you are gone? Adding sarcastically; Stand here like cheese at four pence I suppose?"

Tom returned apologetically, Sorry, about that, perhaps Ben would like a tour of the ship? Ben nodded, that will be good, Uncle, but will you have time? I thought you had to see the clerk or someone? Perhaps it would be better if we just went, remarked Father. No, no, it will be alright, I'll get Jeremiah Jones to show you over the ship and meet you in my cabin later. All I have to do is find him. As soon as the last statement was said, Tom was away down the fore companionway hatch like a fish down a seagull's throat. I guess we will just stand here then," shouted his brother in law after him. Both Bens were mystified and lost for something to do? Ben junior started to pace around, looking over the side at Stonehouse Pool and up the Tamar towards the Dockyard and the Naval vessels that were anchored in the Hamoze. He could make out No1 slip and could see the masts of ships that must have been in the other slips and docks around the bend. All the while, the current and the small fore-topsail were taking the Bristol Castle and the Brown's captive lugger slowly towards that bend.

Hope he is not going to be long Father? cried Ben. His Father quickly moved over to join him at the gunnels, saying, the Tide will be turning in about 3 hours Ben, we won't be able to get back through the race anytime before then anyway. I am not tacking like mad just to get nowhere. Suddenly, Tom returned with a tall thin man of about 25, swarthy, black hair showing some speckles of salt, his body long and thin and wearing a dirty blue chequered shirt and black tar stained breeches speckled again with salt from the sea spray. His hair was windswept and Ben thought he would be able to smell him coming at several paces distant. This is Jeremiah Jones, offered Tom, to whom he now turned and said here is my brother in law and his son, my nephew, both called Ben.

Pleasantries were then exchanged and Tom made his excuses and left, leaving Jeremiah in charge of the two newcomers. Ben noticed that Jeremiah Jones was speaking with a strange accent a kind of wilting sing song type of speaking. You're from London aren't you? Inquired Father. Yes, I am, answered Jeremiah, how did you guess from my name perhaps? No, what? said Father perplexed, isn't your name Jones, that's Welsh, you are not from Wales are you? No London was my home, replied Jeremiah innocently smiling. it must have been your accent then that made me guess London, offered Ben's Father warily, he had just recognised this man as an idiot. What accent? came back the shocked reply, I haven't got an accent? They all talk proper like me across the Thames.

The man seemed genuinely shocked to think he had an accent and started to talk about his family and friends all speaking the same as himself, this prompted Ben Senior to interrupt condescendingly with So you are going to show us around the ship then Jeremiah? This seemed to have the desired effect and animated Jeremiah into explaining the rigging system and the extra mast that made a brig into a Snow.

Suddenly Mr Jones started to climb outside the ship into the channels and looked up the shrouds towards the main mast. The two Bens also looked up the towering main mast. Come on then, said Jeremiah enthusiastically follow me up through the lubber hole and I'll show you the hounds. Wait said Ben's Father defiantly, I am not going up there. I only go aloft when I need to