The Lubber’s Hole - A Patrick O’Brian Podcast

Jack and the Nutmeg rush to intercept the French. Stephen spends time with Governor Raffles. We have a plant naming, a local civet (coffee anyone?), and a chance to ponder Anglican prayer. Time & tide wait on no man, whether they’re standing on principle or not! Ch 4.

Jack & his crew crack on in search of the Cornélie. A Dutch merchantman reveals that one should never say die. Stephen is plagued by dentistry, relative poverty, and moral advantage. Their beautiful restored Nutmeg turns ugly and Jack’s classic capers begin. Ch 5.

The Nutmeg leads the Cornélie on a chase with lame duck ruses, twists and turns, duelling chasers, a familiar decoy trick, and an occulted Star Trek star. After a gunroom dinner with old port, and lots of sails & rigging, there's a very surprising encounter. Ch 6.

At a farewell dinner, there are polar bear stories, thoughts on ageing, and a big transaction toasted with the best Sicilian juice.  We also have a great interview with special guest Neil Buttery, who’s going to talk to us about Regency food, drink and puddings. Ch 7.

Our heroes make an island stop but leave with far more than fruit. With delightful new guests aboard, there's an uneasy Martin, rats going cold turkey, a self-medicating Captain, insults for the Irish, and the return of that cold reptilian glare. Ch 8.

Ashore in Sydney, we meet Martin’s friend from university. There are literary lessons, obstructing officials, a great change of fortune, convenient corruption, copious convicts, and unappealing countrysides. Ch 9 (first part).

We are still in and around Sydney as we conclude Chapter 9 of The Nutmeg Of Consolation with orphanages (almost), midnight commotions, heartwarming reunions, possible help for Padeen and plans for a journey. Ch 9.

Stephen Maturin the deadly duelist meets his match! But first: trips through the bush, more trouble with the authorities and the crew, Aborigines, boomerangs, big news from home and a falling out over duty, honour and friendship. Ch 10.

This week we take time out from our reading of the canon to visit the Caird Library and Archive at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, to talk to senior curator Jeremy Michell and look at documents and artefacts underpinning the Patrick O'Brian novels.  Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsGui2FMAoQ to watch the video version. 

The Surprise sails for Easter Island and Norfolk Island. The crew seems to be acting strange and a little too happy. Jack’s health and his temper are still a worry, as he meets the ghost of cable tiers past. Ch 1.