The Blockade Runners

In the bustling shipyards of 1860s Glasgow, crowds gather to witness the dramatic launch of a sleek, 1,500‑ton steamer named the Dolphin. Built by Tod & MacGregor with twin 500‑horse‑power engines and a shallow draft, she promises unmatched speed through even the trickiest straits. As the massive hull slides down greased wedges into the Clyde, the river erupts with cheers and the air vibrates with the rhythm of hammer blows. The spectacle captures the imagination of merchants, sailors, and onlookers alike, all eager to see what destiny awaits this marvel of steam engineering.

Rumors swirl that the Dolphin is destined for a covert role in the distant American conflict, slipping past blockades to deliver vital supplies. The secrecy surrounding her cargo and mission fuels speculation among the dockworkers, who envision daring night‑time dashes through hostile waters. Listeners will be drawn into the tension of her first voyage, where speed and cunning become the crew’s greatest allies.