Chapter 6 Summary

On the Bellipotent, there is no suggestion that there is a threat of mutiny; it is, in fact, a well-oiled machine. Credit for this goes to the captain, the Honorable Edward Fairfax Vere, a sailor of great distinction. He looks after the welfare of his men but he is also a strict disciplinarian. His officers and crew show him respect both on board ship and on land, where he dresses and conducts himself as a gentleman. He had been cited for gallantry in the West Indian waters.

He was dubbed "Starry Vere" by one of his kinsmen upon his return from the West Indian triumph to distinguish him from another family member who was also in the navy. The designation taken from the following poem by Andrew Marvell describes this distinction:

"This 'tis to have been from the first
In a domestic heaven...