Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

Talking the matter over, it was objected that such a story might offend peaceable folk, because it must deal too much with blood and gunpowder. Mr Kingston, although famed as a narrator of sea-fights, was a lover of peace, and he said that his story would not encourage the war spirit. Those who cared chiefly to read about battles might turn to the pages of ÒBritish Naval History.Ó He chose the period of the great war for his story, because it was a time of stirring events and adventures. The main part of the narrative belongs to the early years of life, in which boys would feel most interest and sympathy. And throughout the tale, not ÒgloryÓ but ÒdutyÓ is the object set before the youthful reader. It was further objected that the title of the story set before boys an impossible object of ambition. The French have a saying, that Òevery soldier carries in his knapsack a marshalÕs baton,Ó meaning that the way is open for rising to the very highest rank in their army. But who ever heard of a sailor lad rising to be an Admiral in the British Navy? Let us see how history answers this question. There was a great sea captain of other days, whose fame is not eclipsed by the glorious reputations of later wars, Admiral Benbow. In the reign of Queen Anne, before the great Duke of Marlborough had begun his victorious career, Benbow had broken the power of France on the sea. Rank and routine were powerful in those days, as now; but when a time of peril comes, the best man is wanted, and Benbow was promoted out of turn, by royal command, to the rank of Vice-Admiral, and went after the fleet of Admiral Ducasse to the West Indies. In the little church of Saint AndrewÕs, Kingston, Jamaica, his body lies, and the memorial stone speaks of him as Òa true pattern of English courage, who lost his life in defence of queen and country.Ó

Reproduction of the original: From Powder Monkey to Admiral by W.H.G Kingston

In 'From Powder Monkey to Admiral' by William Henry Giles Kingston, readers are offered a gripping tale of adventure and naval life as experienced through the eyes of young Ned Aylmer. The book is written in a straightforward and engaging style, typical of Kingston's works, providing insights into the hierarchical structure of the Royal Navy during the Age of Sail. Kingston's vivid descriptions immerse readers in the dangers and thrills of life at sea, making it a valuable piece of maritime literature. The book also explores themes of courage, loyalty, and determination, making it an enriching read for both young and adult audiences. Kingston's attention to historical accuracy adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, underscoring his status as a respected writer of nautical fiction. His meticulous research and firsthand experiences as a sailor inform the narrative, lending it credibility and resonance. 'From Powder Monkey to Admiral' is a must-read for anyone interested in naval history, adventure tales, or Kingston's body of work.

A book for boys by W.H.G. Kingston needs no introduction. Yet a few things may be said about the origin and the purpose of this story. When the Boys' Own Paper was first started, Mr Kingston, who showed deep interest in the project, undertook to write a story of the sea, during the wars, under the title of "From Powder-monkey to Admiral." Talking the matter over, it was objected that such a story might offend peaceable folk, because it must deal too much with blood and gunpowder. Mr Kingston, although famed as a narrator of sea-fights, was a lover of peace, and he said that his story would not encourage the war spirit. Those who cared chiefly to read about battles might turn to the pages of "British Naval History." He chose the period of the great war for his story, because it was a time of stirring events and adventures. The main part of the narrative belongs to the early years of life, in which boys would feel most interest and sympathy.