
audiobook
by Lewis E. (Lewis Edwin) Theiss
A young wireless operator joins the ranks of the U.S. Coast Guard, drawn by the promise of adventure and a chance to serve on the restless seas. Through his eyes the reader discovers a world of disciplined surfmen, sturdy cutters, and the vital pulse of Morse code that bridges ship and shore when danger looms. The narrative is rooted in actual incidents, giving the story an authentic, almost documentary feel without sacrificing the drama of life at sea.
The first part of the book follows Henry, an eager newcomer seeking his fortune aboard a cutter that battles fierce storms and treacherous ice. As the crew hunts a derelict vessel and confronts a sudden call for help, the wireless operator’s calm voice becomes the lifeline for ships in peril. Early chapters blend the grit of daily patrols with moments of quiet heroism, inviting listeners to experience the tension and camaraderie of a service that heads straight into danger to rescue others.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (366K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2020-08-12
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1878–1963
Best known for fast-moving adventure stories for young readers, this early 20th-century American writer built tales around wireless technology, scouting, and outdoor life. His books capture a moment when radio felt new and full of possibility.
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