Jack, Stephen and Diana escape from Boston in a rowing boat with a cache of American intelligence papers and stolen diamonds.

A Royal Navy frigate, HMS Shannon, on blockade duty outside the harbour, takes the fugitives on board. In the climactic naval battle of the War of 1812 HMS Shannon defeats the USS Chesapeake but at a heavy cost.

At a ball in Nova Scotia to celebrate the great victory Jack has a dalliance with the amorous Amanda Smith before our heroes board a mail packet bound for London. But they are pursued by two American ships intent on recovering Diana, the papers and the priceless jewels.

Starring David Robb, Richard Dillane and Candida Benson.

Patrick O’Brian's historical novel dramatised by Roger Danes.

Captain Jack Aubrey ...... David Robb
Dr Stephen Maturin ...... Richard Dillane
Diana Villiers ...... Candida Benson
Captain Philip Broke ...... Peter Forbes
Pontet-Canet ...... Nick Underwood
Johnson ...... Struan Rodger
Amanda Smith ...... Emma Handy
Major Beck ...... Don Gilet
Admiral Colpoys ...... Tony Turner
Lt. Falkiner ...... Cameron Percival
Bartholomew ...... Lewis Bray

Other parts played by the cast.

Director: Bruce Young

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