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The Cruise of the Jasper B.   By: (1878-1937)

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"The Cruise of the Jasper B." by Don Marquis takes readers on a captivating and humorous nautical adventure through the eyes of Captain Moses Kemp and his eccentric crew. Set in the early 20th century, the novel explores themes of ambition, friendship, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Marquis skillfully crafts a delightful cast of characters, each with their own distinct quirks and personalities. Captain Kemp, a determined but somewhat bumbling sailor, leads his crew on a quest to find a hidden treasure. Along the way, readers are introduced to a motley crew of seafarers, including the easily-angered Bos'n' Delaney, the philosophical cook Lip Samuels, and the fearless but accident-prone deckhand Flip Gilroy.

The narrative is infused with humor throughout, with Marquis' sharp wit shining through in the amusing dialogues and comical situations that befall the crew. The interactions between the characters are a highlight, showcasing their camaraderie and the banter that arises from their distinct personalities. This creates a lighthearted and engaging read, perfectly suited for those in search of an entertaining adventure.

Marquis' prose is both descriptive and atmospheric, effectively transporting readers to the vast seas and exotic locales visited by the Jasper B. The author's attention to detail lends a rich sensibility to the settings, making it easy to picture the sun-drenched seas, windswept islands, and crumbling ruins encountered along the journey.

While the novel primarily focuses on the entertaining escapades of the crew, it also subtly explores deeper themes. Captain Kemp's relentless pursuit of the treasure serves as a metaphor for the human desire to attain success and fulfill one's ambitions. Additionally, the book touches on the importance of friendship, loyalty, and the value of embracing life's unexpected detours.

One aspect that may detract from the overall enjoyment of the novel is its occasionally meandering plot. At times, the story deviates from the main narrative to delve into seemingly unrelated anecdotes or side characters, which may disrupt the flow of the story. However, Marquis' wit and skillful characterization largely make up for this slight flaw.

In conclusion, "The Cruise of the Jasper B." is an entertaining and humorous novel that takes readers on an unforgettable journey. With its charming characters, engaging narrative, and vivid descriptions, Don Marquis delivers an enjoyable seafaring adventure that will leave readers yearning for more.

First Page:

THE CRUISE OF THE JASPER B.

BY

DON MARQUIS

TO ALL THE COPYREADERS ON ALL THE NEWSPAPERS OF AMERICA

CONTENTS

CHAPTER

I A BRIGHT BLADE LEAPS FROM A RUSTY SCABBARD II THE ROOM OF ILLUSION III A SCHOONER, A SKIPPER, AND A SKULL IV A BAD MAN TO CROSS V BEAUTY IN DISTRESS VI LADY AGATHA'S STORY VII FIRST BLOOD FOR CLEGGETT VIII A FLAME LEAPS OUT OF THE DARK IX MYSTERIES MULTIPLY X IN THE ENEMY'S CAMP XI REPARTEE AND PISTOLS XII THE SECOND OBLONG BOX XIII THE SOUL OF LOGAN BLACK XIV CLEGGETT STANDS BY HIS SHIP XV NIGHT, TEMPEST, LOVE AND BATTLE XVI ROMANCE REGNANT XVII MISS PRINGLE CALLS ON MR. CLEGGETT XVIII THE MAN IN THE BLUE PAJAMAS XIX TWO GREAT MEN MEET XX THE PSYCHOLOGICAL DETECTIVE XXI THE THIRD OBLONG BOX ARRIVES XXII DANCING ON THE DECK XXIII CUTLASSES XXIV THE DUEL XXV THE SECRET OF THE VESSEL'S HOLD XXVI A DOG DIES GAME XXVII CLEGGETT ACCOMMODATES THE KING

CHAPTER I

A BRIGHT BLADE LEAPS FROM A RUSTY SCABBARD

On an evening in April, 191 , Clement J. Cleggett walked sedately into the news room of the New York Enterprise with a drab colored walking stick in his hand. He stood the cane in a corner, changed his sober street coat for a more sober office jacket, adjusted a green eyeshade below his primly brushed grayish hair, unostentatiously sat down at the copy desk, and unobtrusively opened a drawer... Continue reading book >>




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