Harry Collingwood
The Cruise of the Thetis: A Tale of the Cuban Insurrection
"The Cruise of the Thetis: A Tale of the Cuban Insurrection" by Harry Collingwood is a novel set in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the adventurous escapades of two young men, Carlos Montijo and Jack Singleton, who become embroiled in the Cuban struggle for independence against Spanish rule as they aim to facilitate a covert arms delivery. The backdrop of the tale promises a blend of high-seas adventure, technical innovation, and political intrigue. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Carlos Montijo, the son of a wealthy Cuban tobacco planter, who reunites with his English friend, Jack Singleton, in London. They engage in a lively conversation over lunch where they share their current endeavors and health concerns. The plot thickens as Carlos reveals the urgency of their mission: leading an insurrection in Cuba against Spanish authorities. The two friends discuss a newly constructed yacht designed for smuggling arms, with Jack ultimately agreeing to act as its nominal owner, thus setting the stage for their thrilling involvement in a high-stakes political cause and their subsequent adventures on the open seas.