"Down South" by Oliver Optic follows Captain Alick Garningham and his steam-yacht, the Sylvania, as they return to Florida after a cruise to the Caribbean. The narrative begins with the crew's navigation challenges and their arrival at St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Alick, a young captain with a complex background, navigates both the waters and the social dynamics aboard the yacht, which is chartered by his wealthy cousin Owen Garningham and his family. As they settle in St. Augustine, Alick deals with the responsibilities of command, the needs of his passengers, and the intricacies of his relationships with the crew and his cousin. Tensions arise from Owen's entitlement and the financial arrangements of their voyage, leading to conflicts over expenses. Alick's past, including a conspiracy against him involving his father's solicitor, adds depth to his character and motivations. The story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of leadership, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Florida coast. Alick's interactions with various characters, including a mysterious gentleman named Kirby Cornwood, hint at further developments and potential conflicts as the narrative unfolds.
By Oliver Optic · First published 1868 · Genre: Adventure, Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age · 30 chapters