The Maid of Sker · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Maid of Sker by R. D. Blackmore.
Chapter 1
Epigraph
The epigraph presents a Greek quotation that condemns a faithless man who harbored a cold, cunning serpent in his bosom, foreshadowing themes of betrayal and hidden danger.
Chapter 2
The Maid of Sker
The chapter introduces the setting and characters around Sker, focusing on the mysterious 'Maid of Sker' and the early interactions among the local fisherfolk and gentry.
Chapter 3
Fisherman Davy a Fish Out of Water
Davy Llewellyn, an aging fisherman from the Glamorganshire coast, introduces himself and his intention to write a book about a curious adventure that has occupied his community for many years. He is encouraged by neighbors and a wealthy patron who promises to cover expenses and pay him £50 if he does well. Davy reflects on his past as a sailor in the Royal Navy, his humble education, and his doubts about his own skill as a writer, but he is persuaded by the community's faith in his storytelling ability.
Chapter 4
Hunger Drives Him A-Fishing
In the summer of 1782, David Llewellyn, a widowed fisherman and former sailor, struggles with grief after losing his wife and son. To feed his orphaned granddaughter Bunny, he forces himself to go fishing despite his sorrow, setting out for the conger-holes and lobster-ledges near Sker.
Chapter 5
The Fish Are as Hungry as He Is
Davy Llewellyn fishes at Sker, defying Evan Thomas's claim to the shore. He enjoys extraordinary luck, catching congers, lobsters, prawns, and mullet, and reflects on his life and responsibilities toward Bunny. After a nap, he wakes to find the tide rising and prepares for bass fishing.
Chapter 6
He Lands an Unexpected Fish
Davy, fishing at night under a phosphorescent sea, spots a derelict boat drifting toward him. After initial terror, he hooks and retrieves it, discovering it carries only a sleeping infant. He secures the boat and child, reflecting on his poverty and the chance this vessel offers for his fishing livelihood.
Chapter 7
V: A Little Orphan Mermaid
Davy finds a small girl, Bardie, alone on the shore after a shipwreck. He takes her into his boat, cares for her, and decides to bring her to the old Sker-house, despite his initial hesitation. The chapter explores his growing attachment to the child and his moral reflections on responsibility and providence.
Chapter 8
Finds a Home of Some Sort
Davy brings Bardie to the home of Moxy Thomas, his former sweetheart, and her husband Evan Black. Bardie's fastidious cleanliness and cleverness impress Moxy, who takes to her. Davy reflects on the desolate and dangerous Sker-Grange area, describing its haunted reputation and treacherous quicksands.
Chapter 9
Boat Versus Bardie
Davy Llewellyn reflects on his acquisition of the boat and his rescue of Bardie, worrying about Evan Thomas's potential reaction. He justifies his possession of the boat by constructing a narrative about a shipwreck, the Planter's Welvard, and his own role in the events. He hides the boat, attends church to maintain his reputation, and later decides to visit Bardie at Sker-Manor, taking his granddaughter Bunny with him despite the extreme heat.
Chapter 10
VIII: Children Will Be Children
Davy observes Bardie's playful and affectionate nature as she interacts with Bunny and Watkin, teaching them to dance and play. He learns from Watkin that Bardie was found in his bed that morning, likely placed there by Moxy due to Evan's illness. Bardie speaks a mix of English and French, leading Davy to suspect she is a foreigner of high birth, though he worries she may be a beggar. He resolves to take her home and restore her to her family for a reward.
Chapter 11
IX: Sandhills Turned to Sand-Holes
Davy and Watkin Thomas take shelter in an old house as a violent sandstorm and tornado-like storm descend upon Sker. Davy reflects on the storm's fury, his past experiences at sea, and his anxiety for Bardie and Bunny. He witnesses strange pillars of light inside the hall, which he bravely investigates, discovering they are reflections of the external chaos. The chapter blends maritime adventure with supernatural undertones and Davy's resilient character.
Chapter 12
Under the Rock
During a violent storm, Davy witnesses a slave ship wreck off the coast. After the ship breaks apart and all aboard are lost, he remembers Bardie and Bunny and sets out to find them. He discovers the two children asleep in a sheltered nest of rushes, safe from the storm.
Chapter 13
XI: A Wrecker Wrecked
Davy encounters Evan Thomas, who is drunk and exultant over a wreck ashore. Evan orders Davy to help him plunder the wreck, but Davy is repulsed by Evan's greed. Davy later searches for Evan's sons and finds young Watkin distraught, believing his five brothers have been buried under the sands.
Chapter 14
How to Sell Fish
Davy Llewellyn, burdened by the events of the previous night and the need to sell his catch, employs clever salesmanship and questionable tactics to market his fish. He encounters Hezekiah Perkins at Bridgend, and through a feigned disinterest and a fabricated higher offer from a rival, he successfully sells his remaining stock to Hezekiah at a favorable price. The chapter also details Davy's methods for freshening the appearance of older fish, including using ray spines to prop up the eyes, and his reflections on the public's gullibility.
Chapter 15
The Coroner and the Coronet
The chapter describes the arrival of the English coroner, Crowner Bowles, to hold an inquest on five black men found dead after a shipwreck. He refuses to sit on 'black men' until he learns of a white infant with a coronet on its pinafore, which he then treats as a separate case. Davy Llewellyn mistakes the dead child for Bardie, but is relieved to find her alive. The scene also depicts the local people scavenging the wreckage on the sands.
Chapter 16
In Accordance with the Evidence
Davy serves as foreman of the inquest jury for the dead baby boy found with a coronet mark. Hezekiah Perkins manipulates the proceedings, leading to the distressing exposure of Bardie to the corpse. Davy protects Bardie, who shows her refined nature by rejecting the coroner and his clerk. The jury delivers a verdict that the child drowned in a sandstorm, and Davy reflects on the gap between truth and official justice.
Chapter 17
A Verdict on the Jury
Davy recounts the second inquest on the five young men, where the jury, after being plied with drink and unsettled by Evan Thomas's ominous prophecy that six of them have seen the white horse, returns a verdict of death by visitation of God. The chapter ends with Davy frightening Hezekiah Perkins with a vision of funeral processions near Longlands.
Chapter 18
XVI: Truth Lies Sometimes in a Well
Davy Llewellyn is visited by Hezekiah Perkins, who lures him to a dry well for a secret conversation. Hezekiah attempts to pry information from Davy about a hidden truth, hinting at a scheme involving money and a deceased family. Davy resists, recalling a past grievance where Hezekiah ordered a turbot from a Scottish fisherman instead of him. The chapter explores themes of truth, secrecy, and the tension between friendship and self-interest.
Chapter 19
For a Little Change of Air
Davy takes Bardie away from the gloom of Sker House to his own dwelling, where she initially revives but soon shows signs of neglect and fragility. He resolves to keep her, despite the rising cost of meat. Bunny arrives and the two girls bond over their clothes. To avoid the grand funeral in Newton, Davy takes Bardie on a quiet sea cruise, hoping the waves might restore her spirits.
Chapter 20
XVIII: Public Approbation
Davy Llewellyn enjoys newfound fame after a newspaper account of his heroism during the shipwreck of the Andalusia. He contrasts the flattering report in Felix Farley's Bristol Journal with a vicious, hypocritical account that he attributes to Hezekiah Perkins. Meanwhile, he continues to care for Bardie, who says her prayers and brings him good fortune. His reputation grows locally, culminating in a celebratory welcome at the Jolly Sailors pub.
Chapter 21
XIX: A Craft Beyond the Law
Davy Llewellyn recounts how he legally secured a derelict boat from the wreck of the Andalusia, using witnesses and a bribe of beer and money to avoid claims. He then praises Colonel Lougher, a just magistrate and descendant of his family's patron, who protects Davy's reputation in court. Davy also describes Lady Bluett, the Colonel's sister, who recognizes him with respect, and her young son Rodney Bluett, who loves fishing with Davy but has been kept away. Davy paints the boat blue and alters its markings to obscure its origin.
Chapter 22
Confidential Intercourse
Davy reflects on Bardie's departure with Moxy Thomas, recalling her cleverness and the doll Patty Green he made for her. Through her play with the doll, Bardie reveals fragments of her past, including memories of a little brother, a white dog, and being called a 'young lady' at a gathering where she recited a greeting. Davy is moved by her innocence and the way she internalizes her troubles.
Chapter 23
XXI: Cross-Examination
Davy Llewellyn recounts a visit from Justice Anthony Stew and Sir Philip Bampfylde, who come to question him about his boat and a previous incident. Davy feels harassed by the justice system but finds some relief in Sir Philip's more courteous manner. The chapter highlights Davy's resentment of 'chaff' and his pride in his integrity, as well as his ongoing legal troubles.
Chapter 24
Another Disappointment
Davy reflects on his contentment and memories, but is interrupted by the return of Justice Stew and Sir Philip Bampfylde. They question him about the shipwreck and the dress of the drowned child, and Sir Philip expresses his seventh disappointment in the search. Davy offers to guide them across the sands, but is dismissed. Sir Philip privately gives Davy money for Bardie and Bunny, showing kindness despite the failed inquiry.
Chapter 25
Into Good Society
Colonel Lougher and Lady Bluett encounter Bardie playing alone on the sands and are charmed by her grace and manners. They invite her to dine with them, where she impresses them with her refined behavior and knowledge of wine. Watkin Thomas is sent by Moxy to fetch Bardie home, but Lady Bluett and the Colonel decide to keep an eye on the orphan. The narrator defends his ability to describe high society, claiming ancient royal connections.
Chapter 26
Sound Investments
Davy visits Sker to check on Bardie and Moxy, reflecting on his role as trustee for Bunny and Bardie's money. He establishes a fishing partnership called 'Bardie, Bunny, Llewellyn, and Co.' but faces a poor fishing season. The chapter explores Davy's self-justifying financial management and his interactions with Moxy and Bardie.
Chapter 27
A Long Goodbye
Davy prepares to leave Newton aboard the ketch 'Rose of Devon' under the enigmatic Captain Fuzzy (Bethel Jose), making his will and saying farewell to the village. He reflects on his fall from naval captain to merchant mate, the community's affection for him, and his resolve to return.
Chapter 28
XXVI: Braunton Burrows
Davy recounts the voyage from Sker to Devonshire aboard the ketch, navigating past Sker House and across the Bristol Channel. He reflects on leaving Bardie behind, observes the unfamiliar landscape of Braunton Burrows, and asserts his authority over the crew, disciplining the boy Bang. The chapter ends with the ship entering the rivers Tawe and Torridge, and Davy's mixed impressions of Devonshire and its people.
Chapter 29
A Fine Spectacle
Davy and his crew moor the Rose of Devon near Barnstaple and attend the fair. There, they witness the imposing arrival of two parsons, Parson Chowne and Parson Jack Rambone, who command the respect of the crowd. Davy reflects on their appearance and character, contrasting them with Welsh parsons.
Chapter 30
XXVIII: Something About Him
Davy Llewellyn, seeking to learn more about Parson Chowne, finds the locals reluctant to speak openly. Through storytelling and charm, he loosens their tongues and hears tales of Chowne's ruthless dominance, including the story of Captain Vellacott, who suffered a near-fatal accident after buying a horse Chowne had wanted. The chapter paints Chowne as a man of immense will, feared and obeyed by all, who bends even the law and bishops to his purposes.
Chapter 31
A Visit to a Parson
Davy Llewellyn travels to visit Parson Chowne, reflecting on the madness of Devonshire people and his own superiority. He hires a cart for the long journey, learning from the driver about local superstitions regarding the Parson's supposed compact with the devil. Upon arrival, he faces a threatening dog but is saved by Chowne's intervention. The Parson then tasks Davy with spying on Sir Philip Bampfylde and Narnton Court, claiming it is for Sir Philip's own good due to his political meddling. Davy agrees, though he is uneasy about the underhand nature of the work.
Chapter 32
XXX: On Duty
Davy recounts his time stuck in Barnstaple river at Deadman's Pill, waiting for sailing orders. He observes Parson Chowne's control over Captain Bethel Jose and the crew, and his own role as a watchman over Narnton Court. He describes his frustration with delays, his desire to return home to Bardie and his parish duties, and his attempts to confront the mayor about his situation. The chapter ends with Davy lying in wait to shoot wild ducks, using a pistol loaded with makeshift ammunition.
Chapter 33
XXXI: Two Lovers
Davy, concealed in his punt, observes a clandestine meeting between Captain Drake Bampfylde and Isabel Carey at Narnton Court. He watches as Drake's crew lands a heavy chest, then departs, leaving the captain alone. Drake and Isabel embrace and converse, with Isabel expressing fear of a 'dreadful man'—likely Parson Chowne—and urging Drake to be careful. Davy reflects on his own discomfort with spying and his resolve to remain faithful to his late wife.
Chapter 34
XXXII: Among the Savages
Davy Llewellyn recounts his encounter with Parson Chowne and Parson Jack Rambone, during which Chowne interrogates him about his recent actions and advises him to suppress his finer feelings for practical gain. Davy then enters Chowne's house, where he charms the kitchen maids despite the poor fare, and later struggles with a moral dilemma over whether to keep a secret or report to his employer. After a restless night plagued by nightmares of Chowne, he attempts to ride to Barnstaple Fair but is thrown by one horse and forced to tow another, eventually meeting Chowne near his house at midday.
Chapter 35
XXXIII: In a State of Nature
Davy Llewellyn observes the tense and fearful atmosphere of Parson Chowne's household, learning from the head groom about Chowne's bitter past—including a childhood love for a cousin killed at school, financial betrayals, three marriages, and a reputation for witchcraft. Davy also inquires about Parson Jack Rambone, hearing he is well-meaning but corrupted by Chowne's influence. The chapter ends with Chowne confronting Davy over a supposed missing guinea.
Chapter 36
Waiting and Learning
Davy reflects on his dealings with Parson Chowne, who pays him three half-crowns a week and provides a hayloft. He returns to the Rose of Devon to find Fuzzy gone, the ketch laid up, and only Bang left. Davy considers walking home but stays due to wildfowl and a gift of food from Bang's grandmother. He also learns of the scandal surrounding Captain Drake Bampfylde, suspected of murdering two children, and notes that Isabel Carey supports Drake's innocence.
Chapter 37
The Polite Ferryman
Davy Llewellyn, after being left by Captain Fuzzy and neglected by Bang's grandmother, sets up a ferry service across the river to earn money for Bunny. He advertises himself as 'David Llewellyn, Mariner of the Royal Navy, Ferryman to King George III.' Parson Chowne initially reacts with anger but permits the ferry as it helps Davy watch river traffic. Davy ferries a beautiful young lady and her French maid Nanette, impressing the lady with his politeness. Later, Chowne confronts Davy about a passenger, and when Davy refuses to answer, Chowne whips him; Davy strikes back with a spar, knocking Chowne unconscious.
Chapter 38
Under Fairer Auspices
Davy crosses to Narnton Court to meet Miss Isabel Carey, revealing that he knows she is being watched by Parson Chowne. He offers to serve her interests, and she hires him as a ferryman and spy, giving him a £5 note and a gun. The chapter also includes a story about Parson Chowne's notorious behavior and a bishop's visit to his rectory.
Chapter 39
Two Poor Children
The narrator reflects on the misfortunes of Captain Drake Bampfylde, the younger son of Sir Philip, who despite his wit and enterprise suffers a series of calamities from childhood through his naval career. The chapter recounts his accidental killing of a schoolboy in a fight, his subsequent entry into the Navy, and a string of bad luck including being bitten by a shark, disfigured by cannon fire, and surviving a shipwreck. The narrator also touches on Bardie's visits and the French maid's flirtations.
Chapter 40
A Fine Old Gentleman
Davy reflects on his life as a ferryman, his interactions with Nanette and a farmer's daughter, and his growing reputation. He then encounters Sir Philip Bampfylde to warn him about Parson Chowne's son Stoyle, but Sir Philip dismisses the warning, defending Stoyle's character and holy office.
Chapter 41
Notice to Quit
Davy reflects on his failed ferry business and the loss of his dreams, including a public house and family. He describes his growing admiration for Isabel Carey, who convinces him to give up ferrying after a near-sinking incident with three noblemen on Christmas morning. Davy also intensifies his watch on Narnton Court, suspecting two savage spies from Braunton Burrows of sabotaging his boat. He overhears a conversation between Sir Philip Bampfylde and Parson Chowne, where Sir Philip expresses humility and concern about his son's honor, while Chowne defends the son's innocence.
Chapter 42
Forcible Ejectment
Davy reflects on the wisdom of ancestors and his own fortunes on New Year's Day 1783, counting his money and worrying about Bardie and Bunny. He sets fire to Parson Chowne's ricks and outbuildings in revenge, confesses to Isabel Carey, and hides from the search party. Chowne offers a reward for Davy's capture, and Davy struggles with hunger and isolation.
Chapter 43
XLI: The Right Man in the Right Place
Davy Llewellyn rejoins the Royal Navy as a gunnery instructor, quickly rising to first instructor. He reflects on the decline of the war and the signing of peace in 1783, while also settling old scores and maneuvering to replace his predecessor. He discusses the new carronade artillery and his role aboard the Alcestis, while also considering Parson Chowne's ongoing schemes against Captain Bampfylde and Miss Carey.
Chapter 44
The Little Maid, and the Midshipman
Davy teaches sailing to young Rodney Bluett and the village children on the seashore. Rodney arrives in a coach, eager to join the Navy despite the peace. Bardie, still weak, defends Rodney when Davy scolds him for offering a bribe. Davy advises Rodney to wait for a proper appointment, but Rodney eventually secures a midshipman's berth on the Alcestis. Davy helps with his outfit and keeps Rodney's old schoolbooks, now stabbed with a dirk.
Chapter 45
XLIII: A Fine Price for Bardie
Davy prepares a grand Sunday dinner for Bardie and Bunny, reflecting on his impending departure and the neglect his home will face. Hezekiah Perkins visits and reveals a scheme to pass off Bardie as Martha ap Rees, the niece of a wealthy smelter, in order to claim a reward. Davy feigns drunkenness to learn the plot, but is interrupted when Bardie appears, mimicking his song.
Chapter 46
Provides for Education
Davy makes arrangements for the welfare of Bunny and Miss Delushy before his departure, including a new will and educational provisions. He secures the new schoolmaster, Master Roger Berkrolles, to teach Bunny and Delushy, and resolves legal troubles with Justice Anthony Stew. He also visits Colonel Lougher and Lady Bluett to ensure Bardie's education is attended to.
Chapter 47
XLV: Introduces a Real Hero
Davy recounts his service under Captain Horatio Nelson on the Alcestis, describing Nelson's character, leadership, and the crew's initial jealousy. He also details his return to England after seven years, his recruitment of Master Rodney Bluett, and the ship's experimental duties.
Chapter 48
After Seven Years
Davy, Jerry Toms, and their Captain travel from Exeter to Barnstaple in a coach, then proceed on foot to Narnton Court. They encounter old shipmate Heaviside, who has settled in Davy's old ferryboat and married Nanette, now burdened with six children. The Captain is seen in deep distress, muttering about his brother's betrayal and his own suffering.
Chapter 49
Mischief in a Household
Parson Chowne, enraged by Davy's escape, begins a campaign of psychological terror against the Bampfylde household. He forces his way into Sir Philip's home, intimidates Isabel Carey, and creates a rift between Sir Philip and his son Squire Philip by spreading lies about a warrant. Isabel, feeling the strain, decides to leave Narnton Court for Lord Pomeroy's castle. Meanwhile, Davy and his companions find refuge in the kitchen of Narnton Court, learning of Chowne's further mischief, including his marriage to a shrewish woman and his manipulation of Parson Jack Rambone's marriage. Sir Philip, though aged, maintains faith that he will see his son's honor restored before he dies.
Chapter 50
A Breathless Disinterment
Davy and Jerry Toms, convinced that Parson Chowne murdered two children and buried them in Braunton Burrows, lead a party to dig. After a day of rabbiting, they discover the supposed bodies are actually two large Dutch dolls.
Chapter 51
One Who Has Interred Himself
Davy Llewellyn recounts the public reaction to his discovery of the dolls and the Captain's hat, which he presents to Sir Philip Bampfylde. Sir Philip, moved to tears, thanks Davy and asks him to deliver the items to his son, Squire Philip. Davy later reflects on his longing for home while gazing across the Bristol Channel, but dismisses a wild idea of crossing, suspecting Parson Chowne's involvement in a sinister plot.
Chapter 52
A Brave Man Runs Away
Davy Llewellyn, now in his sixtieth year, finds himself at Narnton Court where his storytelling and charisma make him popular among the servants, particularly with a young maid named Polly Cockhanterbury. Fearing that his attentions might be misinterpreted and that Polly might be after his supposed wealth, he decides to abruptly leave the Court and work his passage on a limestone boat, the Majestic. Before departing, he visits Master Roger Berkrolles and is reunited with his granddaughter Bunny, whom he finds singing a Welsh lullaby to a sleeping child.
Chapter 53
Triple Education
Davy returns to find Bardie, now about ten years old, being educated in a three-part system: body at Candleston Court with Lady Bluett, mind with Master Roger Berkrolles in Newton, and soul at Sker with Moxy. Davy reflects on her orphanhood and the charity she depends on, while Master Berkrolles returns Davy's saved pay and discusses Bardie's future.
Chapter 54
Great March of Intellect
Davy reflects on the lack of progress in the new generation, contrasting Bardie's brightness with his own old-fashioned wisdom. He recounts a chapel meeting where he kicked dissenters, earning praise from Parson Lougher. He receives a letter from Captain Bampfylde offering the master's berth on the Bellona. Davy observes old Mr. Berkrolles teaching Bardie, who is torn between promises to marry Davy, Roger, and Bluett. Before leaving for Narnton Court, Davy joins a boating party with Lieutenant Bluett, Colonel Lougher, Lady Bluett, Delushy, and a young lady. Bunny sneaks along after being locked up, and during the outing Bardie begins to grasp her orphaned state.
Chapter 55
Beating Up for the Navy
Davy Llewellyn, now Master aboard the Bellona, is tasked with a recruiting mission to press men for the Navy. He recounts his expedition to the Welsh coast and then to Devonshire, where he impresses a group of Parson Chowne's naked savages, as well as his old acquaintances Hezekiah and the tailor. The chapter highlights Davy's conflicted feelings about trespassing on Chowne's territory and his justification through duty and Providence.
Chapter 56
Taming of the Savages
After a successful cruise, Davy returns to the Bellona and describes the process of turning landsmen into seamen. He recounts the harsh but effective methods used to discipline new hands, including Hezekiah Perkins, who suffers from seasickness and delusions of being Jonah, and three wild 'savages' who are gradually civilized through cold baths, climbing rigging, and soap. Davy takes particular interest in a small boy he names Harry, whom he cleans and grooms, leading to Lieutenant Rodney Bluett taking the boy under his care to teach him reading, writing, and seamanship.
Chapter 57
LV: Upon Foreign Service
Davy recounts the outbreak of war with France in 1793, the transfer of the crew from the Bellona to the Defence, and the secret wedding of Captain Drake Bampfylde and Isabel Carey. He also describes a dramatic shark encounter where he saves Heaviside by thrusting a periwig into the shark's mouth, which later reconciles them. The chapter reflects on the nature of marriage, duty, and the peculiarities of the upper class.
Chapter 58
Exiles of Society
Davy describes the impressive sight of the British convoy and fleet, their orders to sail immediately, and the subsequent naval battle. After the action, he takes three cannibals (Cannibal Jack, Dick, and Joe) on leave to return them home. They journey across Devon, enjoying the countryside and local hospitality, but upon reaching the cannibals' colony, they are rejected and pelted with mud. They escape to a public-house where Davy witnesses Parson Chowne's harsh treatment of the landlady over rent.
Chapter 59
Many Weak Moments
Davy Llewellyn recounts his slow recovery from a severe illness, cared for by Colonel Lougher, Lady Bluett, and especially Bardie. He reflects on the harsh winter of 1740 and the kindness of his friends. Meanwhile, Sir Philip Bampfylde visits Sker with a groom, meets a mysterious girl who calls herself 'Y Ferch o'r Scer' (The Maid of Sker), and engages in theological discussions with Jack Wildman, who believes rich men go to hell.
Chapter 60
LVIII: More Haste, Less Speed
Davy recounts his service in the Royal Navy during the Mediterranean campaign of 1798, including his role as Master of the Excellent at the Battle of Cape St. Vincent, his admiration for Admiral Nelson's leadership and genius, and the fleet's pursuit of the French to Egypt. He reflects on discipline, mutinies, and his decision to decline a lieutenant's commission.
Chapter 61
In a Rocky Bower
Sixteen years after Davy's great catch and landing Bardie at Pool Tavan, Bunny and Bardie (now young women) sit in a rocky cove. Bunny confesses her engagement to Watkin Thomas, while Bardie expresses anxiety about her own feelings for Rodney Bluett. Rodney arrives, and after a playful exchange, Bardie agrees to promise herself to him only if his mother and uncle formally ask for her hand.
Chapter 62
Nelson and the Nile
Davy Llewellyn recounts the Battle of the Nile on August 1, 1798, where the British fleet under Admiral Nelson decisively defeated the French. As master of the Goliath, Davy describes the strategic approach, the daring maneuver to attack the French from the inner side, and the fierce night battle. He is wounded by a chain-shot but survives, and witnesses the spectacular explosion of a French flagship.
Chapter 63
LXI: A Savage Deed
Davy recounts the aftermath of the Battle of the Nile, where he is wounded and loses his left arm. He describes Captain Rodney Bluett's bravery and the capture of French ships. Aboard the Leader, Captain Foley takes the dying confession of Jack Wildman, who reveals that he and his father, under orders from Parson Chouane, kidnapped two babies—Sir Philip Bampfylde's grandchildren—during a masked ball. The boy, known as Harry Savage, is now serving on the Vanguard, while the girl was likely lost at sea. The confession is witnessed and signed by Captain Foley, Captain Bluett, and others.
Chapter 64
LXII: A Rash Young Captain
Davy Llewellyn, recovering from his wound, receives a visit from Captain Rodney Bluett, who brings news of Jack Wildman's deathbed confession and Harry Savage's heroic promotion under Nelson. They discuss plans to clear Sir Philip Bampfylde's name and restore Bardie's rightful place. Davy decides to proceed warily, while Rodney rushes off to Candleston Court to see Miss Delushy, where he arrives incognito and enjoys a meal before revealing himself.
Chapter 65
Polly at Home
Davy visits Polly, now a free and independent woman living in a cottage near Braunton, and reflects on their past connection. He learns from Nanette (the widow Heaviside) about a farmer's wife, Mrs. Shapland, who may know about the stolen children. Davy also courts Polly, winning over her grandmother with boldness, and proposes a plan involving his recent discovery, emphasizing secrecy.
Chapter 66
LXIV: Susan Quite Acquits Herself
Susan Shapland recounts her time as nurse at Narnton Court, describing the twin children of the Princess—a lively girl named Bertha (called Bardie) and a quieter boy named Philip. She details their disappearance during a dance, the suspicion falling on Captain Drake Bampfylde, and the aftermath including the Princess's death and Squire Philip's withdrawal.
Chapter 67
LXV: So Does Poor Old Davy
Davy Llewellyn faces accusations from Colonel Lougher regarding the boat's origin, but defends his honor by proving it is foreign-built. He retrieves Bardie's belongings from Sker, tows the old boat across the channel with Captain Bluett, and reconciles with the Colonel. They discuss the tides and currents that could have carried Bardie's boat adrift, and land at Ilfracombe.
Chapter 68
LXVI: The Maid at Last Is 'Dentified'
Davy Llewellyn presents Delushy to Sir Philip Bampfylde as his long-lost granddaughter, Bertha Bampfylde, with evidence including the distinctive Bampfylde thumbnail mark. Lady Bampfylde (Isabel Carey) is initially overcome, and Colonel Lougher and Captain Bluett discreetly withdraw. Sir Philip, after initial shock, gratefully acknowledges the girl, and the likeness to his late wife confirms the identity.
Chapter 69
Dog Eats Dog
Davy accompanies Captain Rodney Bluett to confront Parson Chowne, who has been slandering the Bampfylde family. Along the way, they encounter a shipwright who identifies a boat as the Wild-Duck, built for Captain Bampfylde, and later hear a woman's screams from Chowne's house, spurring them to action.
Chapter 70
The Old Pitcher at the Well Again
Davy reflects on the death of Parson Chowne from rabies, a divine judgment for his cruelty. He describes the aftermath, including Parson Jack Rambone's guilt for carrying out the execution, the revelation of Chowne's gypsy origins, and the restoration of order. The chapter also touches on Sir Philip Bampfylde's death from shame and the future of young Philip in the Navy.
Chapter 71
Endnotes
The endnotes provide scholarly references and editorial commentary on topics such as the Newton-Nottage sand-march, traveling performers, plague entries in North Devon parish registers, and a local farmer's skepticism about literacy.
