Jean Marteilhe was only fourteen when he was apprehended trying to leave France following the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes, which had maintained religious freedom in France for ninety years. As a follower of the Reformed faith, he was sentenced to life as a galley slave.

Although galley slaves were normally released after receiving battle injuries, and although Marteilhe suffered three major wounds fighting for France, since he was Reformed and would not recant, he was not released.

Finally, after peace with England and through the intercession of Queen Anne of England with the French monarch, many of the galley slaves held solely for their religious convictions, were released. Their brethren languished under their masters for another two years before their release was secured. The author plainly describes the various characters with whom he interacted during his captivity, some very bad, others very good.

Review by J.David Knepper at http://www.ahavabaptist.com/reviews/reviews.htm#hug