Chapters 7 and 8 Summary

Aubrey hosts an elaborate dinner for the captains of the flotilla and the captured French officers. The captain of Triton is offended by protocol and makes the dinner party disagreeable, though as usual Maturin is oblivious to the social tension. A few hours later the fleet disperses, HMS Nutmeg of Consolation escorting Triton and the American prizes to a court of condemnation. Aubrey and Maturin remove to Surprise where Aubrey resumes command. Pullings declines the offer of captaining HMS Nutmeg of Consolation preferring to remain with Surprise as first lieutenant, or mate. When Surprise is alone Aubrey conducts a thorough inspection tour and is happy to meet many of his old shipmates in good health. Over the next several weeks Aubrey and Pullings enjoy each others' company, and Maturin and Martin exchange news, adventures, and specimens. Much of their discussion recaps...