Chapter 18 Summary

On a cold winter's day in Portsmouth, Bush walks toward the admiralty to receive his half pay. He happily meets Hornblower, quite by chance. After greetings and simple pleasantries, Hornblower announces that the admiralty did not, in fact, confirm his appointment—he remains a lieutenant. Various problems with his half-pay have reduced him to a state of poverty. They retire to a local gambling hall familiar to Hornblower, and stand by the fire. Bush realizes that Hornblower is nearly penniless. Hornblower, however, is paid to play whist and occasionally makes solid winnings at cards. He is employed by the gambling hall to be available as a fourth partner. His perfect skill at the game ensures that he is in demand. Bush spends time sitting by the fire and watching Hornblower play whist. Upon Hornblower's suggestion, Bush reads a recent edition of the...