On Stormy Seas - the Triumphs and Torments of Captain GeorgeVancouver by B Guild Gillespie

Publisher: 298pp Can$ 9.95

Most sailors will be aware that Captain Cook was responsible for much of the charting of the Pacific region. Very few probably know how this was done or about those who continued his work. Captain Vancouver was one of these. Brenda Gillespie tries to explain his importance in his role as surveyor and why so few kknow of his achievements. The story of conspiracy by those around him to discredit him would make a good plot for a novel! Fascinating as the story is, and highly informative about how surveys were conducted by the Royal Navy in the late 18th century, the author seems to labour the reasons for his obscurity and lack of recognition, to unnecessary lengths and repetition. The story is well worth the reading but the delivery is somewhat disappointing. - CA