Beadle's Half Dime Library No. 949

# Museum Catalog Note

The Three Lieutenants: Gentleman George on Deck by T. J. Flanagan continues the author's naval fiction series. Set in August 1801, the story follows three midshipmen—Stephen Decatur, James Lawrence, and the newly arrived George Spence—aboard the U.S. frigate Enterprise departing New York for the Mediterranean Squadron. After Spence and his elderly uncle are attacked by dock loungers, Decatur and Lawrence intervene, along with Reuben Thomas, a master's mate. The three midshipmen become friends despite antagonism from senior midshipman Harper and others. At Gibraltar, Lieutenant Dare receives mysterious correspondence suggesting his enemy Vernier is present at a garrison ball. Spence delivers an urgent message to Dare, who remains aboard ship due to his preoccupation with Vernier's movements. The narrative combines naval adventure with interpersonal tensions and hints at romantic complications involving Dare's past.