On the Blockade

On the Blockade by Oliver Optic

The narrative follows Lieutenant Christy Passford, a young officer in the United States Navy, as he embarks on a mission aboard the steamer Bronx during the Civil War. Christy is transitioning from a life of leisure on the yacht Bellevite to the serious responsibilities of naval command. His father, Captain Passford, provides him with crucial intelligence about two blockade runners, the Scotian and the Arran, believed to be supplying the Confederacy. As Christy prepares for his mission, he grapples with leaving his friends and the comfort of the Bellevite. He receives sealed orders from the Navy Department, which he is instructed to open only at a specific latitude. The orders emphasize the importance of avoiding confrontation unless absolutely necessary, which frustrates Christy, who is eager to engage the enemy. Onboard the Bronx, Christy encounters various crew members, including Pink Mulgrum, a deaf mute who is later revealed to be a Confederate spy. Christy suspects Mulgrum's true nature and assigns his steward, Dave, to keep an eye on him. Tensions rise as Christy navigates the complexities of command, dealing with potential traitors among his crew, including the second lieutenant, Lillyworth, who is also suspected of disloyalty. As the Bronx sails, Christy and his crew spot the Scotian, leading to a tense confrontation. The Bronx successfully captures the Scotian, but not without challenges, including a skirmish with the enemy crew. Christy demonstrates his leadership and strategic thinking, ultimately outmaneuvering the Confederate forces. After the capture, Christy learns that the Arran is still at large. He devises a plan to use the captured Scotian to assist in the pursuit of the Arran. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, bravery, and the moral complexities of war, as Christy navigates his duties while contending with the treachery of some crew members. The story culminates in a second engagement with the Arran, where Christy must rely on his crew's loyalty and his own instincts to secure victory. The challenges he faces test his resolve and leadership, ultimately shaping him into a capable officer in the Navy. The narrative concludes with Christy reflecting on his experiences and the lessons learned during his time at sea, emphasizing the growth and maturity he has gained through his trials.

By Oliver Optic · First published 1883 · Genre: Adventure, Historical Fiction, Young Adult · 31 chapters · 88,840 words

First lines

"She is a fine little steamer, father, without the possibility of a doubt," said Lieutenant Passford, who was seated at the table with his father in the captain's cabin on board of the Bronx. "I don't feel quite at home here, and I don't quite like the idea of being taken out of the Bellevite."

"You are not going to sea for the fun of it, my son," replied Captain Passford. "You are not setting out on a yachting excursion, but on the most serious business in the world."

What this Textopian page supports

On the Blockade is listed on Textopian as a novel by Oliver Optic, dated 1883 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Good citation fit

Discussion starters

Similar titles

Genres

Tags

American Civil War · Adventure · Coming-of-age · Historical Fiction · Nautical Fiction · Sea Stories · Young Adult Literature · Patriotism · War Fiction · Blockade Running · Naval Warfare · Shipwreck

Contents

More by Oliver Optic