Beadle's Pocket Novels No. 235: The Reefer of '76

This serial, "The Reefer of '76," by Harry Cavendish, follows young midshipman Parker as he joins the brigantine Fire-Fly in April 1776, a newly commissioned vessel of the Revolutionary cause. The narrative opens with his emotional departure from New York and detailed observations of the ship's exemplary condition and discipline under Captain Stuart. As the vessel proceeds into open ocean with fellow reefers including Westbrook and the Irish-accented Patrick O'Shaughnessy, the crew maintains high spirits despite the dangers of nautical warfare and uncertain treatment if captured by the British. After nearly a week at sea, the Fire-Fly pursues a reported rich Indiaman. In thick fog during the night watch, Parker and the boatswain detect suspicious sounds. When they hail an approaching vessel claiming to be a Philadelphia merchantman, the crew discovers it is actually seized by pirates, with a pirate schooner hidden beneath its lee quarter. Captain Stuart orders boarders to attack and seize the ship, engaging in combat with the pirate crew.