The Cruise of the Nonsuch Buccaneer

"The Cruise of the Nonsuch Buccaneer" by Harry Collingwood is a historical adventure novel written in the late 19th century. Set in the year 1569, the story follows young George Saint Leger, who embarks on a daring voyage to rescue his brother, captured by the Spanish in the West Indies. Accompanied by a crew of local Devon men and aboard the newly launched ship, the Nonsuch, George's journey is filled with nautical adventures, battles, and the ominous presence of the Spanish Inquisition. At the start of the narrative, George returns to Plymouth after a successful voyage aboard the Bonaventure, only to find his family in distress over the news that his brother Hubert has been captured. With the help of a friendly shipbuilder, he secures the Nonsuch for a mission to find his brother. The opening chapters vividly describe the bustling port of Plymouth, George’s loving relationship with his mother, and the complex emotions surrounding Hubert’s predicament. As George gathers a crew for the expedition, the narrative launches into the excitement and tensions of the impending adventure, setting the stage for a tale of bravery and intrigue on the high seas.