In 1988 I was already a long-established follower of Captain Aubrey and Stephen Maturin's exploits; that was the year I was asked to begin painting the cover art for Patrick's incomparable "tales". It has since been my pleasure and great privilege to illustrate every book in the series. I have tried in my own way to open a window upon the endlessly fascinating world of the Royal Navy in its golden age - a task which is accomplished so much more vividly, completely and even pictorially by Patrick's writing.

May I contribute to the general mourning this little drawing of the "dear Surprise". Captain Aubrey, sailing his ship somewhere in the Elysian Seas, has anchored awhile to salute his creator. In the prescribed navy manner, the yards are hoisted cockbilled, the flags and pennants droop at half-mast; cannon boom out the salute, while on board, perhaps, the hands are mustered, black is the colour of the day, swords are reversed, and maybe the Dead March is played. It will not last long. There will be another tide to catch, another wind to profit by; she will not lose a minute. The man may be gone, but Surprise and her well-known crew will sail on forever in our hearts.

Geoff Hunt
14 January 2000

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Created 14 January 2000