The Second Mate

by H. (Henry) Bedford-Jones

"The Second Mate" by H. Bedford-Jones is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set aboard the decrepit steamer "Sulu Queen", the story follows Jim Barnes, the ship's second mate, as he navigates not only treacherous waters but also mounting tensions among the crew, which could lead to mutiny. With a diverse cast of characters, including missionaries and a cunning supercargo, the novel embarks on a thrilling maritime adventure rife with danger and intrigue. At the start of the book, the "Sulu Queen" is struggling to make its journey, manned by a motley crew of inebriated officers and suspicious crew members. The second mate, Jim Barnes, discovers that there are impending plans for mutiny as he interacts with the various crew members and passengers aboard the vessel. As tensions rise, Barnes is faced with the challenge of keeping the ship intact while safeguarding the lives of a few key passengers, particularly two female missionaries, Nora Sayers and Ellen Maggs. The opening sets the stage for the unfolding drama, showing that the journey will bring both peril and conflict amidst the looming threat of treachery aboard the doomed vessel.