Hero Interview from At the Captain's Command by Louise M. Gouge

[Love Inspired]

How exciting to have Captain Thomas Moberly, the hero from At the Captain’s Command, an April 2011 release from Love Inspired Historical, with us today.

Thank you, madam, for inviting me. I shall endeavor to answer your questions satisfactorily.

1. Tell me the most interesting thing about you.
I suppose many people will consider my career as a decorated captain in His Majesty’s Navy to be interesting. Actually, it’s a rather mundane job sailing about the ocean as part of the world’s most powerful naval force, patrolling the waters to be certain pirates and privateers do not succeed in their thievery. Oh, there are those occasional battles when one must do one’s duty. But then, is that not what life is all about? Duty and service to the king?

2. What do you do for fun?
Fun? I hardly know the definition of the word. My moral standards, not to mention my personal preferences, prevent me from engaging in typical “sailor’s” behavior when my ship is in port. However, there is a certain young lady in St. Augustine – Miss Templeton – whose company is particularly pleasant and engaging. I suppose I could say it is “fun” simply to be with her.

3. What do you put off doing because you dread it?
Put off? Why, nothing. Nothing at all. I am a willing slave to duty and always perform it with alacrity. My superiors can depend upon me to carry out every order thoroughly and without delay. Ah, well, I suppose all that sounds rather stuffy. I must admit there was one “duty” that I could not seem to face. But after a friend prompted me, I made haste to amend my lapse. If you would like to know more about the circumstances, you’ll simply have to read At the Captain’s Command. A hint: it’s toward the end of the book, but you will not comprehend the conflict unless you read the whole thing.

4. What are you afraid of most in life?
I beg your pardon. Are you suggesting that a naval captain such as I could ever be fearful? I think not. (Long sigh.) Forgive me. Once again I have taken exception with a seeming insult. I will confess to you that I fear causing pain to Miss Templeton, who has captured my complete regard and devotion. But life is not simple, and there are circumstances that appear beyond our ability to surmount them. Can we do it? Again, you’ll have to read our book.

5. What do you want out of life?
It is my custom never to engage in discussions about personal matters, but you have somehow broken down my defenses. I own a small manor in Hampshire, and I would like to retire there before another fortnight passes. But until I capture the pirate Nighthawk, I cannot consider resigning my commission.

6. What is the most important thing to you?
Without qualification, I will admit that Miss Templeton is the most important “thing” in my life. To ensure her happiness is my highest goal. Unfortunately, I cannot do so until that rascal Nighthawk is hanged or rests in Davy Jones’ Locker.

7. Do you read books? If so, what is your favorite type of book?
Other than The Gentlemen’s Magazine, I do enjoy the histories of Shakespeare and the poetry of Sir Philip Sydney. If you promise not to give me away, I will confess I also enjoy Shakespeare’s comedies. I do have a lighter side, after all.

8. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would laugh more. And if I can but secure Miss Templeton’s hand, I shall be the happiest of men and will laugh with joy.

9. Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?
I once had a delightful cat named Wiggins aboard my ship. He was a great little mouser and kept the rats at bay. When he went on to his reward, I did not have the heart to find a replacement. You can imagine my delight when I discovered Miss Templeton also has a cat upon which she dotes.

10. If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?
Ah, an interesting question. But when I think about it, I would much rather go into the future. You see, I cannot believe mankind will continue these dreadful wars that have plagued us since Cain. Surely men of reason and faith will one day see eye-to-eye and resolve their differences. Then we will have peace for all men. That is the time I would find most appealing.


Louise M. Gouge http://blog.Louisemgouge.com
At the Captain's Command, Love Inspired Historical, April 2011 - RT 4-Star Review
The Gentleman Takes a Bride, in The Wedding Season, LIH, June 2011
The Captain's Lady, Love Inspired Historical, March 2010 - RT 4-Star Review

[Vicki]

Enjoyed reading this!
Blessings,
Vicki