When London Burned Chapter 4 - Captured

When London Burned Chapter 6 - A Narrow Escape

In which Cyril finds refuge in Rotterdam under the care of a diamond-cutter after a perilous escape from foes, and prudently makes his way back to England amidst threats of looming war. During his return, he resumes life at Captain Dowsett’s home, where he recounts his adventures and stands guard over Mistress Nellie’s honour against unwelcome courtly attentions.

When London Burned Chapter 5 - Kidnapped

In which a young apprentice, cowed and entangled in a web of theft, confesses to his master and faces the consequences with a new resolve, while a determined youth finds himself abruptly seized and carried away by uncertain captors to a vessel bound for foreign shores. The vessel’s captain, caught between duty and compassion, tends to his unwilling passenger amidst clandestine dealings, revealing the perilous entanglements of loyalty and survival within the shadowy undercurrents of London’s streets and river.

When London Burned Chapter 4 - Captured

In which a vigilant watch is kept to uncover the secret visitations of two apprentices on the roof, leading to a dramatic capture that reveals a web of theft and deceit within a London household. The ensuing legal proceedings and police investigations bring to light the extent of the plunder, casting a somber reflection on loyalty and trust among those once thought faithful.

When London Burned Chapter 3 - A Thief Somewhere

In which young Cyril uncovers troubling discrepancies in the stock-books of a maritime store, suggesting the presence of a cunning thief despite strong protestations of innocence from those entrusted with its care. Together with Captain Dave and the first mate John Wilkes, they begin a cautious and secretive investigation into the puzzling disappearances, pondering various concealments and entryways with the resolve of seasoned seafarers confronting an unseen enemy.

When London Burned Chapter 2 - A Change for the Better

In which Cyril Shenstone, a diligent young scrivener of genteel birth, is warmly taken into the household of the kindly Captain David Dowsett, where he finds friendship and a new sense of belonging amidst the bustling trade of a ship-chandler's shop. Amid tales of maritime enterprise and reflections on noble ambitions, Cyril sets to the serious task of organising the Captain’s business accounts, marking a hopeful turning point in his challenging city life.