Four Bells: A Tale of the Caribbean

by Ralph Delahaye Paine

"Four Bells: A Tale of the Caribbean" by Ralph Delahaye Paine is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on Richard Cary, a young chief officer on a steamer, who embarks on a journey that leads him to the tropical allure of the Caribbean, bringing him face to face with his own identity and the romance of the sea amidst the adventures that await him. The opening of the novel introduces Richard Cary as he reflects on his path to the merchant service after a stint in the Naval Reserve during the war, revealing his pragmatic views of seafaring. He returns home to New Hampshire for a short respite, where he conveys a sense of duty over ambition, especially towards his family. During this visit, Cary receives an unexpected offer to take a second officer position on the "Tarragona", a passenger ship bound for ports like Kingston and Cartagena. Intrigued by the prospect of adventure in the Caribbean, he feels a stirring connection to the sea's past, hinting at the romantic journey that awaits him and the significant encounters he will have, particularly with Teresa Fernandez, the ship's stewardess.