Sarja seuraa brittiläisen meriupseerin uraa märkäkorvaisesta tulokkaasta oman laivansa kapteeniksi Napoleonin sotien aikaan. Kirjoissa ura jatkuu vielä pitemmälle.
Capt. A: You know why I'm having H flogged, Mr. G?
2nd Lt G: I reported him for fighting, sir.
Capt. A: I am not having him flogged for fighting, Mr. G. I'm having him flogged because you said in front of the men that you'd flog him. This is a ship of war - as it's captain, I must uphold my lieutenants' authority.
2nd Lt G: I understand, sir.
Capt. A: Flogging only makes a bad man worse, Mr. G... but it can break a good man's spirit. Is H a bad man?
2nd Lt G: Aside from his temper, sir, he's a good sailor.
Capt. A: A good sailor, ill-fed and thirsty. Watch the cat as it cuts his back to pieces, Mr. G... and in the future, perhaps you'll think twice before you threaten anyone with a flogging.