Nutmeg of Consolation

Aubrey & Maturin in the South China Sea and elsewhere, including Australia, c. 1812

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The journey continues... The shipwrecked Dianes are rescued and returned to Batavia, where they can get a replacement ship, an old Dutch affair which they christen the Nutmeg (of Consolation). This ship serves them until they are reunited with their good friends in the Surprise.

The heroes visit an island decimated by smallpox. Stephen has the opportunity to get into a fight, defending the honor of Ireland.

Conditions, as described herein, found in New South Wales (Australia) are utterly deplorable. Very sad indeed. To top it off, Maturin and Martin find a platypus (or water mole) and it stings him. With a venomous spur. Because it's male. WHAT? Platypuses are poisonous (at least the males)?!?

Mind = blown. Another great read. Onwards and upwards, as one might say.