The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All, Book 8. By: W. W. Jacobs (1863-1943)
In "The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All," W. W. Jacobs takes readers on a delightful nautical adventure filled with humor, suspense, and unexpected twists. Set against the backdrop of the bustling maritime world, this eighth installment of the Captains All series showcases Jacobs' mastery of storytelling. The protagonist, Samuel Burge, instantly captures the reader's sympathy with his relatable and endearing traits. As a young sailor, he falls prey to the timeless temptation of venturing ashore, leaving his responsibilities behind. Jacobs skillfully explores the complexities of human nature, exposing the vulnerability and weaknesses that ensnare even the most reliable individuals. Through Burge's experiences, the author raises thought-provoking questions about loyalty, trust, and the consequences of indulging in momentary pleasures. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Jacobs' skillful character development. Each crew member aboard the ship comes to life in vivid detail, enhancing the sense of camaraderie that characterizes life at sea. The interactions between the sailors, filled with banter and genuine affection, create a sense of a tight-knit community united by their shared experiences. This authentic portrayal of the human dynamics aboard a ship adds depth and richness to the overall narrative. Jacobs' mastery of pacing and plot twists amplifies the story's intrigue. The reader is kept guessing as unforeseen events and conflicts arise, keeping them engaged from page to page. As the plot unfolds, unexpected alliances, betrayals, and moments of reckoning keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The author's ability to maintain momentum without sacrificing the story's coherence is commendable. One of the significant strengths of "The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All" is Jacobs' descriptive prose. From the roaring oceans to the creaking of the ship's timbers, the reader is immersed in the sailors' world through the author's vivid imagery. Additionally, his attention to historical accuracy lends credibility to the narrative, transporting readers back in time to experience life on a sailing vessel in all its gritty details. However, one minor downside is the occasional repetition of certain themes and incidents, which may dilute the impact of the story. Despite this, Jacobs' engaging writing style compensates for this minor flaw, weaving a captivating blend of humor, action, and moral dilemmas that will leave readers both entertained and reflective. In conclusion, "The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All" is a worthy addition to W. W. Jacobs' esteemed Captains All series. Through skillful character development and a well-crafted plot, the author creates an immersive and enjoyable maritime adventure that delves into the depths of human nature and the perils of temptation. Fans of nautical fiction will find themselves thoroughly engaged in this delightful tale of loyalty, friendship, and the ever-present allure of the unknown shores. First Page: CAPTAINS ALL By W.W. Jacobs THE TEMPTATION OF SAMUEL BURGE [Illustration: "The Temptation of Samuel Burge."] Mr. Higgs, jeweller, sat in the small parlour behind his shop, gazing hungrily at a supper table which had been laid some time before. It was a quarter to ten by the small town clock on the mantelpiece, and the jeweller rubbing his hands over the fire tried in vain to remember what etiquette had to say about starting a meal before the arrival of an expected guest. "He must be coming by the last train after all, sir," said the housekeeper entering the room and glancing at the clock. "I suppose these London gentlemen keep such late hours they don't understand us country folk wanting to get to bed in decent time. You must be wanting your supper, sir." Mr. Higgs sighed. "I shall be glad of my supper," he said slowly, "but I dare say our friend is hungrier still. Travelling is hungry work." "Perhaps he is thinking over his words for the seventh day," said the housekeeper solemnly. "Forgetting hunger and thirst and all our poor earthly feelings in the blessedness of his work." "Perhaps so," assented the other, whose own earthly feelings were particularly strong just at that moment. "Brother Simpson used to forget all about meal times when he stayed here," said the housekeeper, clasping her hands... Continue reading book >>

The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All, Book 8. By: W. W. Jacobs (1863-1943)

In "The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All," W. W. Jacobs takes readers on a delightful nautical adventure filled with humor, suspense, and unexpected twists. Set against the backdrop of the bustling maritime world, this eighth installment of the Captains All series showcases Jacobs' mastery of storytelling.

The protagonist, Samuel Burge, instantly captures the reader's sympathy with his relatable and endearing traits. As a young sailor, he falls prey to the timeless temptation of venturing ashore, leaving his responsibilities behind. Jacobs skillfully explores the complexities of human nature, exposing the vulnerability and weaknesses that ensnare even the most reliable individuals. Through Burge's experiences, the author raises thought-provoking questions about loyalty, trust, and the consequences of indulging in momentary pleasures.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Jacobs' skillful character development. Each crew member aboard the ship comes to life in vivid detail, enhancing the sense of camaraderie that characterizes life at sea. The interactions between the sailors, filled with banter and genuine affection, create a sense of a tight-knit community united by their shared experiences. This authentic portrayal of the human dynamics aboard a ship adds depth and richness to the overall narrative.

Jacobs' mastery of pacing and plot twists amplifies the story's intrigue. The reader is kept guessing as unforeseen events and conflicts arise, keeping them engaged from page to page. As the plot unfolds, unexpected alliances, betrayals, and moments of reckoning keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The author's ability to maintain momentum without sacrificing the story's coherence is commendable.

One of the significant strengths of "The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All" is Jacobs' descriptive prose. From the roaring oceans to the creaking of the ship's timbers, the reader is immersed in the sailors' world through the author's vivid imagery. Additionally, his attention to historical accuracy lends credibility to the narrative, transporting readers back in time to experience life on a sailing vessel in all its gritty details.

However, one minor downside is the occasional repetition of certain themes and incidents, which may dilute the impact of the story. Despite this, Jacobs' engaging writing style compensates for this minor flaw, weaving a captivating blend of humor, action, and moral dilemmas that will leave readers both entertained and reflective.

In conclusion, "The Temptation of Samuel Burge Captains All" is a worthy addition to W. W. Jacobs' esteemed Captains All series. Through skillful character development and a well-crafted plot, the author creates an immersive and enjoyable maritime adventure that delves into the depths of human nature and the perils of temptation. Fans of nautical fiction will find themselves thoroughly engaged in this delightful tale of loyalty, friendship, and the ever-present allure of the unknown shores.

First Page:

CAPTAINS ALL

By W.W. Jacobs

THE TEMPTATION OF SAMUEL BURGE

[Illustration: "The Temptation of Samuel Burge."]

Mr. Higgs, jeweller, sat in the small parlour behind his shop, gazing hungrily at a supper table which had been laid some time before. It was a quarter to ten by the small town clock on the mantelpiece, and the jeweller rubbing his hands over the fire tried in vain to remember what etiquette had to say about starting a meal before the arrival of an expected guest.

"He must be coming by the last train after all, sir," said the housekeeper entering the room and glancing at the clock. "I suppose these London gentlemen keep such late hours they don't understand us country folk wanting to get to bed in decent time. You must be wanting your supper, sir."

Mr. Higgs sighed. "I shall be glad of my supper," he said slowly, "but I dare say our friend is hungrier still. Travelling is hungry work."

"Perhaps he is thinking over his words for the seventh day," said the housekeeper solemnly. "Forgetting hunger and thirst and all our poor earthly feelings in the blessedness of his work."

"Perhaps so," assented the other, whose own earthly feelings were particularly strong just at that moment.

"Brother Simpson used to forget all about meal times when he stayed here," said the housekeeper, clasping her hands... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Humor
Literature

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Wikipedia – W. W. Jacobs
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