16 The Wine-Dark Sea - Libro della tutto

Patrick O'Brian The Wine-Dark Sea
'So I understand. But wars are conducted according
to certain forms. They are not wild riots
in which anyone may join and seize whatever
he can overpower; and I fear that if you
can produce nothing better than the recollection
of a letter wishing you every happiness
you must be hanged as a pirate.'
'I am concerned to hear it. But as for prizes,
as for the merely privateering aspects of the
voyage, Mr Chauncy, my sailing-master, has a
paper from his government. We sailed under
American colours, you will recall. It is in a
cover marked Mr Chauncy's qualifications and
references in my writing-desk.'
'You did not bring it?'
'No, sir. The young gentleman with one arm
told me there was not a moment to be lost, so
I abandoned all my personal property.'
'I shall send for it. Pray describe the writing-