Introduction
1757
Hostilities between Great Britain and France have raged in colonial America for three years - a struggle which would become known in that part of the world as the French and Indian War. It is but one theater of a much larger conflict in which both nations are fighting across the globe. This includes Europe itself, where allies of both sides are also fighting one another to maintain their own interests. Spain has thus far remained a neutral spectator in every way. The Seven Years War, as it will come to be known, will be recognized as one of the first true world wars in human history.
At this period of time, warfare is still in many respects a gentlemanly pursuit. Any man who has distinguished himself to the point of becoming a commissioned military officer, regardless of family background, is generally recognized as a gentleman. Such men would be expected to uphold certain tenets of proper behavior and always act with honor. The honor of a gentleman is worth more than gold itself...
An officer in the British Royal Navy, a young man born in the North American colonies, is about to learn of the part he will play, for better or worse, in the escalating confrontation...
