Ramage and the Drumbeat
| Company type | Historical novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 1967 |
| Founder | Dudley Pope |
| Products | Book |
Ramage and the Drum Beat, initially published in 1967 and later reissued under the titles Ramage and the drumbeat and Drumbeat, is a historical novel authored by Dudley Pope. The narrative unfolds during 1796–1797 amidst the naval engagements of the French Revolutionary Wars. This book serves as the second entry in the Ramage series, succeeding Ramage. It emphasizes Ramage's vital involvement in preparing the British navy prior to the Battle of Cape St. Vincent (1797).
Plot
Lieutenant Nicholas Lord Ramage is in command of the cutter HMS Kathleen, assigned by Commodore Horatio Nelson to carry dispatches to Gibraltar while also escorting Italian refugees previously rescued. During this mission, Ramage and the Marchesa exchange rings amidst a contrived shooting competition.
The Kathleen encounters the damaged Spanish frigate La Sabina. Although outmatched in firepower, Ramage forces its surrender by threatening to destroy its stern and then takes it under tow. Subsequently, British frigates arrive to transfer prisoners from the captured vessel and assume responsibility for the Marchesa, much to Ramage’s frustration.
While adrift near Cartagena, Spain, Kathleen runs into a Spanish fleet and is seized. With assistance from Jackson, Ramage adopts the guise of an American impressed sailor, gaining limited liberty. Among other refugees holding forged protection papers in Cartagena, he conducts espionage on Spanish admiral José de Córdoba, acquiring documents that disclose the fleet’s planned departure for the Atlantic.
Ramage escapes aboard a xebec and returns to Gibraltar, reuniting with the recaptured Kathleen. The port Commissioner sends him to alert Sir John Jervis about the forthcoming battle. After rendezvousing with Jervis's squadron, they head toward Cape St. Vincent for the confrontation on 14 February 1797. Throughout the battle, Kathleen supports Lord Nelson and plays a crucial role by entangling aboard San Jose, facilitating Nelson’s flagship's effective engagement.
The British fleet secures a decisive victory, capturing four enemy ships. Ramage suffers a near-fatal injury during combat but is saved by his crew. Despite his significant contributions, he receives no official commendation for his actions.
Fictional
- Nicholas Ramage – lieutenant commanding the cutter HMS Kathleen
- Gianna the Marchesa di Volterri – Italian aristocrat who escaped French conquest and Ramage’s romantic interest
- Count Antonio Pitti – cousin to the Marchesa di Volterri
- Thomas Jackson – American coxswain loyal to Ramage; holds an American Protection certificate exempting him from Royal Navy service; assists crew members in posing as Americans, including:
- Will Stafford – locksmith from London turned crew member; helps Ramage break into Admiral de Córdoba’s residence
- Alberto Rossi – Genoese sailor devoted to Ramage and the Marchesa; recurring figure in the series
- James Maxton – Grenadian crewman skilled with machete and cutlass; recurring character
- Sven Jensen – Danish prizefighter known for powerful punches; killed during boarding of San Nicholas; not actively featured in story
Historical Figures
- Sir John Jervis - led the British fleet stationed at Gibraltar
- Horatio Nelson - commodore and ally of Ramage
Vessels
British
- HMS Kathleen - a cutter equipped with 10 six-pounder carronades
Spanish
- La Sabina - a Spanish frigate that was dismasted and seized by HMS Kathleen
Reviews
Booklist described it as "Another thrilling maritime adventure," whereas The New York Times remarked, "Even C.S. Forester doesn’t possess greater knowledge of British Navy's daily operations and combat tactics during Nelson’s era." Kirkus Reviews emphasized Pope’s meticulous narration, appealing to enthusiasts of sharp blades and swashbuckling romance.