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

Shakespeare on death, a strong blow, more jeopardy for young Daniel and stories about his life. Meanwhile Jack shows birds to Stephen, there’s an unredeemed Killick, Algiers, lions, and tigers and bears, oh my… OK, no bears - but there’s a new Dey in town. Ch 6.

Stephen and Jacob head off into the mountains. There are animals, bribes, secret acquaintances, some Royal Navy history, a lion hunt, grand theft, and a wicked desert sandstorm.  Ch 7.

Stephen and Jacob return to Algiers to find the Ringle and Surprise. Once again, there’s a new Dey in town. Stephen has some unexpected additions to his family. He doubts his diagnostic ability and his judgment, while seeking help from the wind and from a corsair. Ch. 8.

Jack tries to minimize the possibility of Lord Barmouth sending a different ship after the gold galley. Stephen has a favour to ask of Lady Keith, and Jacob leaves the ship without permission. Meanwhile, a pirate galley awaits the dark of the moon.  Ch 9.

Jack and the Surprise go after the galley, but the capture does not go as planned. Neither does much else. There’s a long chase, yet another new Dey, another death, and another potential complication for Jack’s career. Ch 10.

The Surprise’s departure for Chile is short-lived as she threatens to founder. Barmouth is back, Keith is not, and we learn about the differences between sailors and soldiers. Ch 1.

Jack returns to his amorous ways. The Surprise’s fortunes change and change again. Stephen is disappointed, worried, concerned, and ill-dressed. Wantage returns, though not entirely intact, and there’s a fiery ending for all. Ch 2.

Jack hurries to get his ship repaired while Stephen works to confirm the mission to Chile with Sir Joseph. There’s family time for some. A royal connection adds to the midshipman’s berth, as Stephen’s pocket-watch works its way into the story once again. Ch 3.

There are irregularities (of the digestive kind) aboard the Surprise, as Mr Hanson progresses with Jack as a mentor. Stephen hopes for intelligence from Dr Jacob while the galley chorus rallies round. Ch 4.

The Surprise arrives in Sierra Leone. In the midst of amazing wildlife, Stephen takes his chance with Christine. Jacob and Stephen worry about Jack, and young Hanson enters the boxing ring, fighting for the Surprise. Ch 5.