Captain Kettle on the War-Path

Captain Kettle on the War-Path by Cutcliffe Hyne

"Captain Kettle on the War-Path" by Charles John Cutcliffe Wright Hyne follows the adventures of Captain Sir Owen Kettle, a retired sailor with a wooden leg, who is eager to contribute to the war effort during World War I. Despite his disability, Kettle is determined to take action against the Germans, whom he refers to as "Dutchmen." The story begins with Kettle's frustration at being unable to enlist in various military services due to his wooden leg. However, he is soon approached by Martin Carnforth, a Member of Parliament, who shares Kettle's desire to take direct action against the Germans. Carnforth proposes a plan to capture a German submarine that is expected to be off the coast of Ireland. Kettle, eager for adventure and to strike a blow against the enemy, agrees to join Carnforth in this clandestine mission. The two men embark on a journey across the Atlantic, traveling incognito to avoid detection. They eventually find themselves in New Orleans, where they must secure passage on a steamer that is believed to be meeting the German submarine. The story unfolds with a mix of espionage, naval tactics, and Kettle's characteristic boldness. Kettle's resourcefulness and determination are put to the test as he navigates the challenges of the mission, including dealing with a crew that is unaware of the true nature of their voyage and the threat posed by the German submarine. Throughout the narrative, Kettle's character is portrayed as a man of action, unafraid to take risks and confront danger head-on. His interactions with Carnforth and other characters highlight his no-nonsense attitude and his commitment to doing what he believes is right, regardless of the personal cost. The story is a blend of adventure and wartime intrigue, showcasing Kettle's ingenuity and bravery as he takes on the enemy in his own unique way.

By Cutcliffe Hyne · First published 1898 · Genre: Adventure, Military Fiction, Nautical Fiction · 10 chapters · 81,821 words

First lines

Captain Sir Owen Kettle, K. C. B., shook his head and sighed. "I have tried everything, sir, from the Flying Corps to Motor Transports and R. A. M. C., and not one of them will have me. They say I've a wooden leg."

"And that's not true," broke in Lady Kettle. "The Captain's is a high-class American limb that cost £26 18s., even with the discount. At least, the one he wore when he tried to enlist was. He still has his old wooden implement (which Mr. McTodd made him), but he only wears that about home here, and when we've no company. Mr. McTodd meant well, but he made the leg of Honduras mahogany, and that's too heavy. It's as good as an extra vest to the Captain when he wears it."

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Captain Kettle on the War-Path is listed on Textopian as a novel by Cutcliffe Hyne, dated 1898 CE.

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Adventure · Naval · Maritime · War · Military · Action · Historical · Exploration · Sea · Journey · Heroism · Sailing

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