The lieutenant and commander : $b being autobiographical sketches of his own career, from Fragments of voyages and travels

"The Lieutenant and Commander: Being Autobiographical Sketches of His Own Career" by Captain Basil Hall is a collection of autobiographical sketches written in the mid-19th century. The work provides insights into the naval life and experiences of the author, including reflections on duty, adventures, and personal anecdotes from his career as a naval officer. It serves as both a historical account and a guide for young men, particularly those aspiring to enter the naval profession. At the start of the book, Captain Basil Hall introduces readers to the various paths a naval officer may take early in their career, emphasizing the importance of choosing a specific line of pursuit. He describes the archetypes found in the navy, contrasting the adventurous "dashing boys" who revel in the physical demands of seafaring with the more scholarly "star-gazers" who seek to understand the rationale behind naval duties. The opening portion establishes the premise that a well-rounded officer must both embrace practical skills and develop intellectual capabilities, setting the stage for Hall's personal experiences and observations throughout his maritime adventures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Basil Hall was a British naval officer from Scotland, a traveller, and an author. He was the second son of Sir James Hall, 4th Baronet, an eminent man of science.