The Three Cutters

"The Three Cutters" by Frederick Marryat is a 19th-century novel that mixes sea adventures with funny social commentary. The story follows naval people on fancy yachts and ships that chase smugglers. It looks at how class, doing what's right, and the ocean's pull affect these characters. The book starts with a pretty picture of England's coast near Plymouth, where a fancy yacht is getting ready to leave. We meet the showy Lord B--- and his friends, made funny to show who they are and where they come from in society. When the yacht sets off, we see the crew and the fancy things they have, which is very different from the problems they'll face with ships that stop smugglers. This sets up funny meetings, problems where people want different things, and a lively view of life on the sea, promising a fun mix of adventure and smart humor.