SOLVED. Juvenile: Series. Boy's adventures on a sailing vessel. Not orphaned, but parents no longer at his house (pos. searching for him?). Published 1940s? Set in 19th century? Early chapter book, larger illustrations.

[Canuckistanian]

This is a series of books. Setting is a small town by the sea (England?). Young boy - maybe 7-10? - returns home (from where?) to find his parents missing - they're possibly out searching for him. The series chronicles his adventures on the high seas. There's an elderly male character, also a cat. And back at home a young girl, his friend. We read the series approximately ten years ago, and the books were quite new - although clearly written decades ago or longer. They're an early step from picture books to chapter books, with large pen-and-ink illustrations. I recall ornate seaside houses when he returns to his town.

[Canuckistanian]

Ah! I found it!

Author is Edward Ardizzone, and the title character in the series is Tim. Phew. Now to find copies of the books at a library ...

[SamSpayedPI]

Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain is available at the Internet Archive. You need to be a member to "take out" books, but membership is free; you only need to give them an email address.

[Canuckistanian]

SamSpayedPI wrote: "Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain is available at the Internet Archive. You need to be a member to "take out" books, but membership is free; you only need to give them an email ad..."

Oh! Thank you so much!

[SamSpayedPI]

You're welcome -- glad you found your book!