William Calvert, the son of a Merchant Captain went to sea at the age of 12, When his father died he is taken on in the Royal Navy as a Masters' Mate. When the Master is taken ill, Will takes his place and in saving his ship proves he is a brilliant navigator. As Master of the frigate HMS Artful a wounded Will once again proves his worth when he takes over the quarterdeck as the Captain is struck down and manages to sink not one, but two French frigates in the one action. Promoted to Lieutenant, Will joins HMS Victory where he comes to the attention of the Senior Admiral, Lord Jervis. Promoted to Commander, he takes command of the schooner HMS Snipe in which his actions cause much distress to the French to the delight of the Admiralty.