In 1812 Britain is at war with America and France.

When Captain Jack Aubrey and Dr Stephen Maturin are forced to abandon ship in the South Atlantic they are picked up by the Royal Navy frigate, Java, in pursuit of an American heavy frigate, Constitution.

But when the ships exchange fire the enemy proves superior. Jack and Stephen are taken as prisoners-of-war to Boston – where Stephen’s former lover, Diana Villiers, has become the mistress of an American diplomat.

Starring David Robb, Richard Dillane and Candida Benson.

Patrick O’Brian's historical novel.

Dramatised in three parts by Roger Danes

Captain Jack Aubrey ...... David Robb
Dr Stephen Maturin ...... Richard Dillane
Diana Villiers ...... Candida Benson
Killick ...... Jon Glover
Bonden ...... Sam Dale
Johnson ...... Struan Rodger
Pontet-Canet ...... Nick Underwood
Clapier ...... Stephen Hogan
Jaheel Brenton ...... Gerard McDermott
Lt. Babbington ...... Don Gilet
Captain Lambert ...... Sean Murray
Chads ...... Liam Lau Fernandez

Other parts played by the cast.

Director: Bruce Young

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2018. Show less