Written 100 years ago by a master teller of sea tales. Mr. Trunnell, the fascinating first mate of the title, is contrasted to an evil, mysterious and unpredictable ship's captain. Juxtaposed to these two is the second mate, the narrator of this tale who learns and grows under the tutelage of Mr. Trunnell. A story of good, evil, loyalty, authority, trust and perseverance. The dialog, of the sea and of the times, draws one into the story. Any reader who loves stories of the sea and/or adventure should not miss this fine tale. Absolutely first rate.
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