x
1965:
Like so many Americans, Billy Riker was a great respecter of history and tradition. He mentally capitulated both words and considered History and Tradition practically synonymous, semantic blood, as it were.
Which is why he didn't resent the chore Mack Wingate had asked him to perform. Wingate was one of those journalists who regarded their newspaper careers as staging areas for literary invasions---in other words, Mack wanted to write a book. He also believed fervently in a philosophy expounded by a certain contingent of the Fourth Estate: Sensationalism sells better than dull facts, so don't let them get in the way of a good story.
"I have to admit, I'm skeptical," a publisher had told Wingate. "The idea of a gargantuan American warship capable of sinking even the Spanish Armada? It sounds like a bunch of bullshit to me. See, there's nothing new in print about it these days. The legend's just that---a legend."
"What if it isn't?" Wingate had protested. "Legends have a way of capturing the imagination, and in the case of the Leviathan, the line between myth and reality is intriguingly blurred. Whether it existed or not, the Leviathan continues to stir up debate and curiosity among historians and enthusiasts alike. I can't believe you're not interested!"
"Mack, it's not that we're disinterested, far from it. But there are a lot of questions that need to be answered. If this big bastard existed, then where's the proof? Did Thomas Jefferson commission such a ship? How do you build something like that without anybody knowing about it? How did it work? And perhaps most bafflingly, how does America just suddenly up and lose a strategically valuable man-o-war? I mean, it just vanished without a trace. Until we have solid answers to these questions, the Leviathan remains a tantalizing but unverified story. That's what you need to gear your research toward."
That had prompted Mack Wingate, who enjoyed seeing his byline but hated the ditch-digging aspects of research, to ask a favor of his old Harvard schoolmate. He knew that Riker, a widower and retired, had plenty of time on his hands.
"I'm sure that with your background, you might unearth something I'd never recognize as significant," Wingate had enthused. "C'mon, Billy, remember the fuss made over Amelia Earhart when she disappeared? Don't you think the Leviathan's mystery is on the same level?"
"No, I don't, Mack. Earhart was a famous aviator whose disappearance was documented and witnessed by the world. The Leviathan, on the other hand, exists in the shadowy realm of legend. There's no concrete evidence that it was ever built, no official records or eyewitness accounts that stand up to scrutiny. Earhart is rooted in documented history; the Leviathan isn't. Besides, I can't do anything for you right now. I'm off tomorrow for a week's vacation."
But Wingate had pressed and pleaded. "I'll wait until you get back. Billy, I could make a best-selling story about the Leviathan's legend. Think about it—what were its real secrets? What were those cannonballs made of that supposedly could destroy entire cities? What kind of wood was used to construct such an enormous ship? Imagine if there was a mutiny—an unheard-of event in even the 19th-century U.S. Navy—that resulted in the accidental destruction of the ship. These are the questions that could--"
Riker had interrupted wearily: "All right, Mack, I'll do your damn research for you. But I can't make you any promises. I'll phone when I get back.
He hadn't bothered telling Wingate he welcomed the chance to visit the Mystic Seaport Museum again. It was often affectionately referred to as The Museum of America and the Sea, for it reflected the comprehensive scope of the Mystic Seaport Museum's exhibits and collections. It was renowned for its extensive array of maritime artifacts, vessels, and exhibits that showcased America's rich maritime heritage and history. From historic ships to maritime art, navigation instruments, and interactive exhibits, the museum offered visitors a deep dive into the nation's maritime past. The nickname encapsulated the museum's role as a premier institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating America's seafaring traditions and contributions to maritime exploration, commerce, and culture.
"Blow the man down," he hummed to himself and then smiled at this musical manifestation of his incurable interest in naval tradition. The Leviathan was a part of that tradition, as far as Riker was concerned---a symbol of American naval supremacy and innovation. Despite its mysterious disappearance, the Leviathan's mythos looms large in American navy tradition, inspiring awe and reverence among sailors and historians alike.
In tales of maritime adventure and exploration, the Leviathan was portrayed as a legendary vessel that once prowled the high seas, its towering masts and formidable firepower striking fear into the hearts of America's enemies. She was said to have played a pivotal role in key naval battles, her presence on the horizon heralding victory for American forces. Beyond its military prowess, the Leviathan was celebrated for its technological marvels and nautical innovations. Her design and construction were shrouded in mystery, with whispered rumors of advanced engineering and experimental weaponry. Some legends even suggested that the Leviathan was equipped with revolutionary propulsion systems or clandestine defense mechanisms, making her a truly unstoppable force on the water.
Leviathan buffs like Riker never dwelled on the ship's legacy, its status as a symbol of American ingenuity and daring. For him, the hyperbolic tales of her daring exploits and legendary captain were mere distractions from what he considered more important---the truth. While the romanticized stories might capture the imagination of a lesser man, Riker was driven by a relentless pursuit of facts and evidence. He believed that uncovering the true history of the Leviathan was paramount, as it held the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of America's maritime past and technological advancements.
Those experts who scoffed at the existence of such a colossal sailing vessel as the Leviathan were rooted in skepticism about the technological capabilities of the early 19th century. They argued that the construction of a ship of such immense size and power would have been beyond the technological reach of the era. They pointed to the limitations of shipbuilding techniques, materials, and engineering knowledge at the time, asserting that it would have been impossible to build a vessel on the scale of the Leviathan using the technology available in Thomas Jefferson's America. Additionally, they questioned the practicality and feasibility of such a large ship in terms of navigation, maneuverability, and crew management arguing that a vessel the size of the Leviathan would have been unwieldy and difficult to control, posing significant challenges in terms of sailing and combat effectiveness.
The counterargument of naval experts and historians who supported the idea of the Leviathan's existence revolved around the notion that early America may have been more advanced than commonly believed. These proponents argued that historical records often underestimate the ingenuity and technological prowess of past civilizations, including early American shipbuilders and engineers. Supporters of the Leviathan's existence pointed to historical accounts and anecdotal evidence that suggest advancements in shipbuilding techniques and naval architecture during the early 19th century. They argued that America's burgeoning maritime industry, fueled by a spirit of innovation and competition, may have led to the development of cutting-edge technologies and techniques that pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible at the time.
Furthermore, proponents of Leviathan's existence highlighted the potential influence of visionary leaders like Thomas Jefferson, who were known for their interest in science, exploration, and naval expansion. Jefferson's ambitious vision for America's naval capabilities may have spurred the development of revolutionary ship designs and experimental technologies, including the construction of a vessel as formidable as the Leviathan. In conclusion, there was no reason why America could not have possessed the knowledge, resources, and ambition to undertake the construction of such a colossal sailing vessel.
Riker scoffed at the notion of the "mystic" weaponry associated with the Leviathan. He dismissed the exaggerated claims and fantastical stories that attributed supernatural or mystical powers to the ship's armaments. From what he knew of the legends, the Leviathan was said to be armed with cannons of unprecedented size and firepower. These cannons were purported to be larger and more powerful than any others of the time, capable of wreaking devastation on a scale previously unseen in naval warfare. The sheer size and number of guns allegedly possessed by the Leviathan added to its fearsome reputation as an unstoppable force on the seas. The cannonballs were said to be equally massive, dwarfing those used by other ships of the era. Legends spoke of cannonballs the size of barrels, capable of pulverizing enemy vessels and coastal fortifications with a single shot. The immense size and weight of these cannonballs added to the awe-inspiring image of the Leviathan as a ship of unparalleled strength and destructive capability.
Or were they? Surely those claims about Leviathan's armaments had been exaggerated.....
All right then, he asked himself, what was he doing in the museum? Wingate and his damn book! Whatever Riker came up with, even some mildly suspicious (and probably easily explainable) entry, he knew Mack would ride it to the heights of wild speculation. He liked Wingate as a person, but as a journalist, Mack had the morals of an alley cat. Yet Riker had made a promise but had never examined the Leviathan legend in detail. It might prove interesting, if unproductive from Wingate's viewpoint.
He stood up and stretched before laboriously squeezing his six-foot-five frame into the small chair allotted to a museum library study desk. Riker's height was not especially commanding, for he was built along the lines of a pipe cleaner. His face was so broad, however, it was almost intimidating, as if the imposing head had been grafted onto the tall, thin body. A shock of thick shaggy gray hair added to the cranial dimensions and his stern features gave him a look of perpetual menace.
He wasn't a menacing man, however. He had a quick, easy smile and the dry wit of someone who did not take himself very seriously. "Curious guy," was the label most acquaintances pinned on Billy Riker, unwittingly applying the right adjective but with the wrong meaning. Riker was a man of insatiable curiosity, especially when it came to anything concerning the Leviathan. So it was with a sense of anticipation that he bent over a photocopy of an ancient document that detailed encounters with the Barbary Pirates, clearly dating back to the time of the Jefferson administration.
The report, likely compiled by a naval officer or government official, was lengthy. There were hundreds upon hundreds of accounts of encounters with the Barbary Pirates, each one like a window into a tumultuous era of maritime conflict, filled with tales of daring rescues, fierce battles, and narrow escapes. Consummate professional that he was, Riker scanned the faded text, his brow furrowing in concentration. He didn't know what he was supposed to be looking for. If he found anything, it'd probably be from sheer instinct, born of innate suspicion. 264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKvpbrKCkh
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"In the midst of the tumult, Captain Cartwright's voice resounded amidst the deafening roar of cannon fire, his commands stirring the crew to action. With resolute determination, he guided his men into the fray, his valor and leadership instilling in them an unwavering resolve to confront the foe."264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBN8Frw4d0w
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Riker's gaze froze on that particular passage, his breath catching in his throat as he read the name that leaped right out of the page. Cartwright? As in Phineas E. Cartwright, whose name was as synonymous with myth and mystery as the Levithan itself?264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9alnL4oiS4
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"Captain Cartwright, a figure of legendary renown, possessed of a countenance as stern as the tempest-tossed seas he braved. His presence upon the deck commanded respect, for he was not merely a mortal captain, but a titan among men, chosen to helm the giant ship of the gods, a vessel proudly bearing the colors of the United States of America, whose very name strikes fear into the hearts of all who dare oppose it."264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYJwrj61QWy
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As Riker re-read the passage describing Captain Cartwright and the enigmatic reference to the "giant ship of the gods," a chill ran down his spine. There was an unsettling quality to the description, a sense of reverence and awe that had no place in an official naval report. A thought crossed his mind: Could the officer who wrote this report have been drunk or otherwise impaired when he penned these words? The extravagant language and fantastical imagery suggested a mind influenced by more than just the sober realities of naval warfare. Riker's unease grew as he considered the implications of such a possibility. Furthermore, he realized that he may not have been the only visitor to have read this photocopied document. Who else had access to this report, and what conclusions had they drawn from its contents?
Delving deeper into the document, Riker uncovered another anomaly that unsettled him deeply:
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"Captain Cartwright, in a display of unmatched valor and determination, unleashed the full might of his cannons upon the shores of the Barbary, laying waste to the enemy's stronghold and striking fear into the hearts of all who dared oppose him. His relentless bombardment reduced the city to ruins, a testament to the awesome power of American naval might and the indomitable spirit of its fearless captain."264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNyCnyLHMJJ
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As he contemplated the fantastical claims of the passage, Riker's sense of unease deepened. Good God! thought Riker. One ship, even a vessel as legendary as the Leviathan, bringing about the destruction of an entire North African metropolis? It was not only implausible but also morally reprehensible. An assault of that magnitude would have resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians—women, children, and non-combatants—as well as pirates, akin to genocide on a horrific scale. He struggled to reconcile this notion with his understanding of history and the principles of morality. Would Thomas Jefferson, a champion of liberty and justice, truly have condoned such a heinous act? Even Stephen Decatur's famous bombardment of Tripoli, while destructive, did not result in the extermination of the Tripolitans as a people. What were the motives of those who penned this document?
Riker smiled to himself as he found reassurance in the knowledge that America had no history of intentional genocide, at least not in the Nazi sense. He reminded himself that while the nation's past was not without blemish, acts of mass extermination and wanton destruction on the scale described in the document were simply not consistent with American values or historical precedent. The ideals of liberty, justice, and humanitarianism that underpinned the nation's identity stood in stark contrast to the horrors of genocide and indiscriminate violence. He tried to convince himself that the so-called report was likely either the product of an overactive imagination or the embellishments of a drunken sailor, rather than a reflection of historical reality. But he couldn't shake the lingering sense of unease that lingered in the back of his mind, prompting him to continue his quest for the truth with renewed determination.
That was a mistake. Delving even deeper into the document's contents, he discovered further chilling details that metaphorically referred to the incredible destructive power of the supposed "ship of the gods." References to the ship's cannons as "thunderous giants," capable of unleashing "wrath upon the waves," sent shivers down his spine. The language used to describe the armaments of Cartwright's ship was ominous and foreboding, evoking images of devastation and chaos on a grand scale. He couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as he contemplated the implications of such descriptions, wondering what kind of vessel could possess such fearsome firepower and what its true capabilities might have been.
Moreover, Riker found passages that spoke of Cartwright's "ship of the gods" as a "harbinger of doom to the wicked," and a "reaper of wretched souls." As if it were not just a warship but a force of nature, an unstoppable juggernaut that left massive destruction in its wake. Instead of a mighty maritime defender of democracy, these metaphorical descriptions had painted a picture of a vessel of unparalleled power, capable of instilling terror and awe in equal measure.
His mind drifted to a quatrain from the Prophecies of Nostradamus that had long intrigued him. The quatrain, believed to have been written in the 16th century, seemingly predicted the existence of a monstrous sailing vessel that would ply the seas by the early 19th century—the very time of the Barbary Wars. The year in question, 1801, was etched in Riker's memory as he recalled the prophetic words:264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmcbtWCcmCZ
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"In the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and one,264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡInOfeBF8eL
A behemoth of the seas shall rise, its course begun.264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVoyTH0hu0
With cannons roaring and sails unfurled,264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNYZxyfP3zA
It shall wield power that shakes the world."
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These cryptic verses had long fascinated scholars and enthusiasts alike, with many interpreting them as a reference to the Leviathan—a ship of unprecedented size and power that would emerge during a time of global upheaval. As Riker reflected on the implications of Nostradamus's prophecy, he couldn't help but wonder if there was a connection between the legendary Leviathan and the mysterious vessel foretold in the ancient texts.
As he contemplated the eerie quatrain from Nostradamus, he was reminded of other famous psychics who had similar visions about the Leviathan. Mother Shipton, the famed English soothsayer, and Edgar Cayce, the renowned American clairvoyant, both made cryptic references to a colossal ship that defied the conventions of their times.
Mother Shipton's prophecy, written in the 16th century, described a "great beast of wood and iron" that would "sail the waters wide" and bring "fear and fire" to those who opposed it. She spoke of a ship "seven-masted and full of wrath," whose cannons would "roar like thunder" and whose presence would be "a dread upon the seas." Edgar Cayce, on the other hand, had visions in the early 20th century that were strikingly specific. In a trance, he described a "titanic vessel" constructed during the time of the Barbary Wars, armed with "weapons beyond its era" and led by a "captain of indomitable will." Cayce's descriptions included a warning of a ship that "disappears as if swallowed by the depths," leaving behind only legends and fear. He'd always regarded such psychic predictions with a grain of salt, yet he found himself unable to ignore the uncanny similarities between these visions and the contents of the document he just read.
Of course, every disaster, evil person, or strange invention brought psychic claimants out of the woodwork in droves. The plethora of prophecies that surfaced after the sinking of the Titanic, with clairvoyants claiming to have foreseen the maritime disaster in their visions; the rise of Adolf Hitler, and the atrocities of World War II saw an outpouring of supposed predictions, each psychic insisting they had known of the impending evil long before it came to pass; the bizarre case of the Tunguska event in 1908, where a massive explosion flattened a remote Siberian forest. Psychics from around the world rushed to provide their interpretations and foresight, ranging from alien invasions to divine retribution. The pattern was clear: whenever humanity faced something extraordinary, the psychics were never far behind, ready to claim their foreknowledge and bask in the limelight.
And then there were the curious stories of alleged sightings of the ship. Charles Dickens, the esteemed author known for his vivid imagination and keen observations, once recounted a curious sighting off the coast of England. In a letter to a close friend, Dickens described an encounter with a colossal sailing ship unlike any he had seen before. He claimed to have spotted the ship on a foggy winter morning while strolling along the cliffs of Dover. According to Dickens, the ship appeared ghostly and ethereal, its towering masts and billowing sails casting a spectral silhouette against the gray sky. What struck him most was the ship's immense size and the eerie silence that surrounded it, as if it sailed in a realm between the living and the dead.
And then there was that controversial passage in "A Christmas Carol." Instead of the festive attire that one would typically associate with a Holiday spirit, Dickens described The Ghost of Christmas Present as clad in the unmistakable uniform of an American naval captain, a ghostly figure that stood tall and imposing, his dark blue coat adorned with brass buttons and epaulets, and bearing a most un-Christmassy sneer, casting a shadow of foreboding over the scenes he reveals to Ebenezer Scrooge. As Scrooge is taken on a journey through time and space, encountering scenes of joy and suffering, the unsettling presence of the American naval captain's uniform adds an eerie layer of mystery to the spirit's role in guiding Scrooge's transformation.
Under his breath, and with cautious reverence so as not to disturb anyone nearby, Riker softly recited a passage from Chapter 3 of "A Christmas Carol:
Scrooge, trembling, said, "Spirit! Are you here to show me visions of Christmas joy and goodwill?"
And the Ghost of Christmas Present, a chilling sneer upon his visage, responded in kind, "I am here to show you what you refuse to see, Ebenezer Scrooge. Behold!"
The scene, as Riker recalled unfolded with a sinister intensity, far removed from the warmth and redemption typically associated with Dickens's previous novels. As Scrooge was led through visions of poverty, suffering, and despair, the Ghost's words resonated with haunting clarity. And therein lay the controversy: What could Dickens have been thinking when he dressed a Christmas ghost like a sea captain? Why did he temporarily forsake the Christmastime feel of the story?
There was, in Riker's opinion, only one possible answer: The Ghost of Christmas Present was, in actuality, Phineas P. Cartwright, captain of the Leviathan.
Another sighting that came to Riker's mind occurred off the coast of Nova Scotia in the late 19th century. This one, off the coast of Nova Scotia in 1886 remained one of the most intriguing encounters with the legendary Leviathan. Three fishermen, John MacLeod, William O'Brien, and Thomas Jenkins, were aboard the fishing vessel Sea Spray when they spotted the colossal ship. It emerged from the mist, its seven towering masts and massive sails casting a daunting shadow over the calm waters. As the Sea Spray drew closer, the fishermen could discern the outline of the ship's hull, which glimmered eerily under the moonlit sky. They observed it with a mixture of awe and apprehension, wondering if it was a phantom or a vessel from a bygone era. In a daring attempt to make contact, they hoisted their signal flags and shouted across the water, hoping for a response from whoever might be aboard.
To their surprise, the phantom ship was flying the American flag, as if proudly displaying its allegiance to the United States. This detail added a layer of perplexity to the sighting, as it suggested the ship belonged to a nation known for its maritime prowess but offered no clue as to its purpose or origin. The fishermen's efforts to communicate went unanswered, and after lingering on the horizon for a brief but unforgettable moment, the gargantuan sailing ship vanished into the mist as mysteriously as it had appeared.
But this sighting did not exist in a vacuum. In the wake of the sighting, Thomas Jenkins dutifully reported what he and his fellow fishermen had witnessed to a local Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer. This officer, Constable Malcolm Fraser, recognized the significance of the sighting and promptly relayed the information to Rear Admiral Edward Kinsella of the Royal Navy, then stationed in Halifax. Kinsella, a seasoned officer known for his meticulous approach to maritime affairs, was deeply concerned upon hearing the report of a massive warship flying the American flag in Canadian waters. Recognizing the potential implications for international relations and maritime security, he knew he had to take direct action. Kinsella decided to travel to Washington D.C. to personally meet with President Grover Cleveland.
President Grover Cleveland, serving as the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, was known for his approachable demeanor and commitment to diplomatic engagement. However, he was taken aback by Admiral Kinsella's urgent request for a meeting. "Mr. President," he had said, " we have a most unusual situation on our hands—an enormous warship, of a scale previously unheard of, sighted flying the American flag off the coast of Nova Scotia. Its size and configuration are beyond anything in our naval records.".
President Cleveland recognized the potential diplomatic sensitivity of such a sighting involving a massive American-flagged vessel in Canadian waters. "Admiral Kinsella," he had said, "I assure you, I have no knowledge of any such ship, nor are there any American naval maneuvers scheduled in Canadian waters. Rest assured, we will pursue this matter with the utmost seriousness and maintain open channels of communication between our nations regarding maritime affairs. The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding that further investigations would be conducted by both naval forces to ascertain the truth behind the sighting. The trouble was that the investigations eventually led to a dead end.
Riker considered the Nova Scotia sighting and the subsequent dialogue between Rear Admiral Kinsella and President Cleveland as likely fiction; there were no historical records or documented reports supporting an extraordinary event involving a massive, unidentified American warship in Canadian waters during that time. Moreover, the dialogue attributed to Rear Admiral Kinsella and President Cleveland appeared overly formal and scripted, lacking the nuanced language and context one might expect from historical correspondence or diplomatic discussions of that era.
Suppose he were to suddenly encounter the legendary USS Leviathan while navigating the open seas, though? He would face a daunting and unprecedented challenge that would test both his resolve as a maritime historian and his skepticism toward extraordinary legends. At the moment of sighting, he'd need to ensure that he gathered as much evidence as possible—photographs, video recordings, and detailed notes describing the ship's appearance, movements, and any distinguishing features. Given the sheer scale and purported capabilities of the Leviathan, capturing conclusive evidence would be paramount to validating his encounter. He might initially share his findings with trusted colleagues or fellow researchers in maritime history and legends. Depending on the circumstances and location of the sighting, he could also contact relevant maritime authorities or historical preservation societies interested in naval mysteries. Such a situation would have to be approached cautiously due to the potential implications of the discovery. Would he be willing to risk publicizing the sighting against the possibility of facing skepticism or disbelief from the academic and naval communities?
If only it were possible to find the damned ship, he thought. Such a discovery might solve so many riddles of the Leviathan legend, and answer so many questions. He had always fantasized about being on an expedition that located the warship---a foolish fantasy, he realized, because what would a retired cryptoanalyst be doing on such an expedition? Someday, somehow, however, oceanographers like his closest friend, Jacques Leclair, might make fantasy a reality and separate fact from fiction.
Fiction and fact intertwined seamlessly in the enduring legend of the Leviathan, a phenomenon that captivated Riker as much as the documented historical accounts. While the fantastical tales of a colossal warship capable of mythical feats intrigued the imagination, it was the nuggets of truth buried within the narratives that fascinated him most. Each fragment of evidence, no matter how obscure or contradictory, held the promise of unlocking the ship's enigmatic past. Whether deciphering old naval records, scrutinizing eyewitness testimonies, or uncovering artifacts purportedly linked to the Leviathan, Riker saw in these pursuits the potential to peel back layers of myth and reveal glimpses of forgotten history. It was this blend of fiction and fact, the interplay between legend and reality, that fueled Riker's relentless pursuit of the truth behind the USS Leviathan.
The US Navy's penchant for precision and numbers provided Riker with a labyrinth of data that added another dimension to the mystery of the USS Leviathan. As he sifted through even more archival records and official reports, Riker encountered staggering figures that seemed inconceivable for a sailing ship of any era, let alone the early 19th century. According to these accounts, there was said to be a vessel under construction boasting an unprecedented seven masts towering over its colossal hull. This description painted a picture of a ship that defied conventional naval engineering and challenged Riker to reconcile these statistics with the absence of tangible evidence in historical records. As he delved deeper into the mystery, Riker felt the weight of the ship's enigmatic existence growing heavier, compelling him to seek answers that could unravel the truth behind its legendary status. Its beam spanned an awe-inspiring width that dwarfed contemporary warships, while its displacement—another astronomical figure—suggested a vessel of titanic proportions. The numbers continued with the crew complement, purportedly numbering in the thousands, a logistical feat that strained belief for a ship powered solely by wind. Each figure painted a portrait of a ship that defied conventional naval engineering and challenged Riker to reconcile these statistics with the absence of tangible evidence in historical records. As he delved deeper into the numerical maze, Riker felt the weight of the Leviathan's mystery grow heavier, compelling him to seek answers that could unravel the truth behind its legendary existence.
The Navy's meticulous provisioning for this colossal vessel was a marvel in itself, Riker mused with a mix of fascination and envy. According to the sparse records and scattered accounts he uncovered, the provision list for the mysterious ship was a staggering inventory that hinted at the scale of its operations. It included provisions for hundreds of crew members, ranging from barrels of salted meat and hardtack biscuits to vast quantities of freshwater stored in immense casks below decks. Riker imagined the bustling activity on board as sailors hauled sacks of flour and barrels of rum across the expansive decks, ensuring that the ship could sustain its massive crew on voyages that spanned distant seas. The logistics of feeding and maintaining such a monstrosity at sea underscored the magnitude of the vessel's purported size and operations, fueling Riker's determination to uncover more about its elusive history.
On he read, delving deeper into the provision list that unveiled more peculiarities. Amidst the standard fare of salted beef and pork, Riker noted entries that raised eyebrows and questions. Among them were provisions of meat from the Great Auk and Passenger Pigeon—birds long extinct and believed not to have been used for sustenance in over a century. Sardines, a common maritime delicacy, seemed out of place alongside such rarities. However, the most baffling entry was the mention of "meat of the Wizard Beast of France." Riker paused, puzzled by this cryptic description. What creature could be dubbed a "Wizard Beast," and why would its meat be provisioned aboard a naval vessel? Was it intended for the captain alone, reserved for some arcane ritual or tradition lost to time? The inclusion of such exotic and enigmatic provisions only deepened the intrigue surrounding the mysterious ship and its operations.
Then Riker struck paydirt! Amidst the bewildering provisions list, he found a document that cataloged a network of contributors and financiers, their names a roll call of the era's most influential figures There were renowned companies like Franklin & Adams Shipwrights, financiers such as Cornelius Vanderbilt and John Jacob Astor, and banks like the Bank of New York. More intriguingly, it listed marine architects with the oddest backgrounds of all---freed Negro slaves, like Solomon Northup, once owned by Edwin Epss, and Frederick Douglass, who had escaped the clutches of Thomas Auld. The document also mentioned blacksmiths and gunsmiths who had lent their skills to the construction and arming of some kind of big ship, including names like Hezekiah Bailey and Eli Whitney. There was even a mention of the prestigious American Sovereign Gun Club, whose members were reputed marksmen and weapon designers. What struck Riker most was the list's endorsement: it was approved by none other than Thomas Jefferson himself. Even odder, it bore the co-signature of Napoleon Bonaparte. This astonishing collaboration between two of history's most formidable leaders added a surreal layer to the mystery, suggesting a project of unprecedented scale and ambition. Riker's pulse quickened as he contemplated the implications, his skepticism now mingled with an undeniable sense of awe and curiosity. These influential people were funding something monumental, all right.
Riker remembered something familiar about the American Sovereign Gun Club. Somewhere in the recesses of his mind, a vague recollection stirred. He had encountered that name before, and it hadn't been in favorable circumstances. The club had a notorious reputation, whispered about in hushed tones among historians and conspiracy theorists alike. Rumors suggested that it was more than just a gathering of elite marksmen; it was said to be a shadowy organization with ties to clandestine operations and questionable political motives. This enigmatic group, known for its secrecy and influence, had been linked to several controversial events in American history.
"Well, I'll be damned!" he blurted, more loudly than he intended. Two other museum visitors gave him disapproving stares, but Riker didn't even notice. He marched into the office of the museum curator.
"Ernie, listen to this," Riker said to the museum curator, a friendly butterball of a man he had come to know well from his frequent visits. "I found records indicating the involvement of the American Sovereign Gun Club in the construction of a massive warship that just might be the Leviathan. This organization isn’t just any gun club. They’ve got a shadowy past, linked to some of the most controversial events in our history. Their influence and secrecy are well-documented among conspiracy theorists. What else could they be hiding? And why were they so invested in this colossal vessel? This could change everything we thought we knew about early American naval history."
Ernie furrowed his brow, processing what Riker had just told him. "Well, that certainly sheds a new light on things," he said thoughtfully. "I might have something else that could help. We've got some old correspondences and logs from the early 19th century that were donated by a private collector a few years back. Among them are some letters from prominent figures of the time—one in particular from a known member of the Sovereign Gun Club. It mentions a 'grand project' they were heavily invested in. I haven't had the time to fully go through them, but perhaps these documents could reveal more about this mysterious warship and the Gun Club's involvement."
In less than five minutes, Ernie reappeared with a small, weathered leather-bound chest. The chest, adorned with tarnished brass fittings and intricate carvings, had an air of antiquity about it. Ernie placed it gently on the table in front of Riker and opened it with a key that looked almost as old as the chest itself. Inside, the documents were carefully preserved in protective plastic sleeves, each one meticulously labeled with dates and brief descriptions. The yellowed edges of the papers hinted at their age, and the elegant, looping script of the letters evoked a bygone era. Riker felt a shiver of anticipation as he reached in to pull out the first letter, its ink faint but legible.
Riker's fingers trembled slightly as he carefully extracted the first letter from its plastic sleeve. The paper was brittle and yellowed, but the ink remained surprisingly clear. As he began to read, the contents of the letter quickly proved to be even more astonishing than the official records he had previously examined. It was dated March 12, 1804, and was addressed to Thomas Jefferson himself. It was signed by a figure Riker had heard of in his research: James Archibald, a prominent member of the American Sovereign Gun Club. The opening lines expressed a tone of urgency and secrecy, setting the stage for the revelations to come.
“Esteemed President Jefferson,
I write to you with the gravest of concerns and the utmost confidentiality regarding our recent project, which you so discreetly approved. The construction of the Leviathan, a vessel unlike any other, has reached its final stages. Its sheer size and firepower are unprecedented, even by our ambitious standards.”
His heart raced as he read on. The letter detailed an array of modifications and innovations that seemed almost fantastical for the early 19th century.
“Moreover, the integration of experimental weaponry has been a success. The cannons, forged from a new alloy developed in secret by our finest metallurgists, are capable of launching projectiles of extraordinary range and destructive power. These projectiles, crafted from materials sourced under utmost secrecy, include the use of a rare mineral that greatly enhances their explosive potential.”
Riker's eyes widened. The letter suggested that the Leviathan was equipped with cannons far more advanced than anything he had ever heard of from that era. He continued reading, his mind reeling from the implications.
“Furthermore, the ship's structure incorporates reinforced timber from the rare and now extinct American chestnut, providing both resilience and buoyancy that surpasses conventional shipbuilding materials. This ship is not merely a vessel; it is a floating fortress, a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of our new nation.”
The final paragraphs of the letter contained even more alarming information. It mentioned the involvement of a consortium of influential figures, including freed Negro slaves who had become master blacksmiths and gunsmiths after gaining their freedom. These skilled artisans, such as Elijah Johnson and Samuel Tuttle, had lent their expertise to the construction of the Leviathan. Then his pulse quickened at the next revelation: the project had received the clandestine support of none other than Napoleon Bonaparte.
“It is with great discretion that I must also inform you of the French Emperor's interest in our endeavor. Napoleon, recognizing the strategic advantage of such a vessel, has covertly provided resources and expertise. His involvement, while controversial, has been invaluable.”
Riker's mind whirled. The letter's contents suggested a secret alliance between the United States and France, centered around the construction of this monstrous ship. The implications were staggering, and the very existence of the Leviathan seemed to defy the historical record.
As Riker finished reading the letter, he looked up at Ernie, who was watching him intently. The curator seemed to sense the magnitude of what Riker had just discovered. “These documents,” he said, his voice filled with awe, “describe a vessel beyond anything we’ve ever imagined. The Leviathan, it seems, was not just a legend. It was real, and its creation involved some of the most powerful and influential figures of the time.”
Ernie nodded slowly, his expression grave. “And if that’s the case, there’s no telling what other secrets are hidden within these papers. We might just be scratching the surface of a much larger story.”
"Many thanks, Ernie. You can put the chest away now."
"Don't you want to see more?
Riker shook his head slowly in response to Ernie's question. "No," he said firmly, his voice carrying the weight of the revelation he had just encountered. "I've seen enough for now."
Ernie looked at him with a mix of curiosity and concern, but Riker remained resolute. The documents he had read already held more than enough shocking information to process. He needed time to digest the implications of what he had discovered.
He said goodbye to the curator and rushed out of the museum as fast as his legs could carry him.
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When Riker returned to his small New York apartment, a one-bedroom affair whose principal features were an ancient piano and a huge, well-stocked bookcase, he placed a call to Mack Wingate.
"Mack? it's Billy. You wouldn't believe the things I...."
Wingate chirped. "Uh, Billy, I regret to inform you that I've changed my mind about doing a book on the Leviathan legend. While you were away, I decided there was not enough written and nobody gives a damn anyway. I'm going after a far more interesting subject." He paused dramatically. "Get this----who was the Lone Ranger?"
Why you little son of a bitch! Riker thought, but he didn't voice his epithet. He was relieved to have Wingage off his case. He even felt grateful, since Mack had unwittingly steered him to a doorway to a potentially dark and menacing legend.
"A topic of eternal interest," he agreed. "Good luck with the project."
"I got a retired U.S. marshall who's spearheading the project for me," Wingate confided. "Anyway, thanks for your trouble."
"Anytime," Riker said cheerfully and hung up. Anytime," Riker said cheerfully and hung up. The weight of what he had found at the Mystic Maritime Museum lingered with him. As he sat in his study, he couldn't help but replay the day's events in his mind. The museum had been a treasure trove of secrets, revealing details that were both astonishing and perplexing. He had come across records detailing the construction of an immense warship, allegedly commissioned by none other than Thomas Jefferson and co-signed by Napoleon Bonaparte. The involvement of the Sovereign Gun Club, a mysterious and somewhat nefarious organization, had been a startling discovery. These documents were filled with names of notable figures from the early 19th century, including famous millionaires, banks, marine architects, and even freed slaves. These freed slaves, once owned by prominent figures, had become blacksmiths and gunsmiths contributing to this colossal endeavor. Riker's mind raced with questions about how these individuals came to be involved and what their roles had been. The official records had painted a picture of a massive ship, the likes of which had never been seen before, but the personal letters Ernie had shown him provided an even deeper glimpse into the mystery. These letters hinted at the immense destructive power of the ship, referring to it in almost mythical terms. They mentioned extinct birds and otherworldly provisions like the meat of the Wizard Beast of France, adding to the ship's eerie aura. Riker couldn't shake the feeling that he was peering into a part of history that had been deliberately obscured. The most unsettling revelation, however, was the sheer possibility that this ship, the USS Leviathan, might have existed. The implications of such a vessel being real were staggering. How had it been built? How had it vanished without a trace? And why was there no official record of its existence in the annals of American naval history? Riker knew that his journey was far from over. There were too many loose ends, and too many questions left unanswered. He needed to delve deeper into the backgrounds of the freed slaves and their unexpected involvement in the construction of the ship. He had to understand Napoleon's role and why he would have co-signed such a venture. And most importantly, he needed to find out more about the Sovereign Gun Club and their true intentions.
"What were their intentions?" Riker had asked.
"You may find this hard to believe, but behind the American Sovereign Gun Club's facade of a gentleman's club for enthusiasts of firearms and marksmanship lurked a much darker truth. It was a front for a secret society called the Ebon Circle. They use things like gentlemen's clubs to recruit influential figures, exchange covert communications, and plan their nefarious agendas away from prying eyes. The bastards have used at least twenty strategically important corporations to provide the perfect cover for their meetings and rituals over the years since the Barbary Wars."
Riker went to a rear closet and from the top shelf removed a stack of thin bound volumes he hadn't examined for years. The topmost book bore the title Botanica Exotica: Flora of Old America. It was, like all the other books in the stack, so dusty now that he had to use a damp cloth on them first. But dare he browse? That would be like a man rereading a batch of love letters that he should have consigned to the wastebasket years ago.
Botanica Exotica: Flora of Old America provided the greatest temptation to browse, for its pages were filled with meticulously detailed illustrations of rare plants purportedly discovered by Henry Hudson, Humphrey Gilbert, Lewis and Clark, and other intrepid trailblazers. Each specimen was meticulously cataloged, accompanied by annotations in archaic script detailing their medicinal properties and mystical associations. He remembered how its pages vividly illustrated that ingesting some of these botanical beauties was tantamount to extending an invitation to an early grave.264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UsU5GAlNL
That was the attraction of these books. He knew that they held the potential to unlock the truth. Ship logs, naval records, naval engineering feats, local folklore, or even tall tales of the sea made ideal starting points for further research.
He sighed with intrigue, sifted through the pile, and came up with several volumes titled Uncharted, which he took back to his living room. He perused their contents for more than two hours before he found what he was looking for. What he had come upon was not solely focused on the Leviathan itself, but rather a piece of the legacy of the American Sovereign Gun Club, or rather, the Ebon Circle. It was a faded astrological chart with swirling lines that depicted the dance of celestial bodies. A passage below snagged his attention:264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBhSJil597J
Mark well, when the Seven weave their tapestry across the heavens, a tide of power surges through the very fabric of reality. The veil between worlds thins, and the currents of the heavens shift. To those with the wisdom to see, a key is forged, unlocking secrets of the deep and the boundless sky. But beware, for the Harmony of the Seven is a blade that cuts both ways. He who harnesses its might may command the winds and tame the seas, yet also risk unleashing forces beyond mortal comprehension.264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVw9N75SmHS
Riker whistled. This wasn't just celestial navigation or even advanced stargazing. This was something...else entirely. The book spoke of a specific alignment, a harmony between not just the usual suspects like the Sun, Moon, and planets, but Uranus, the ice giant recently discovered. The implications were staggering. Could this be the key to the Leviathan's power? And if so, were the founding fathers of the US Navy, or perhaps a rogue faction within it, aware of this celestial key? A shiver ran down his spine. The Harmony of the Seven. The thought of such a cosmic event resonated with a primal fear, but also a thrill of discovery. Billy knew he was on to something big. This wasn't just about a lost ship anymore. This was about a force that could rewrite history.
Riker furrowed his brow. The Harmony of the Seven sounded suspiciously like some of the fringe theories he'd encountered in his Naval Intelligence days – whispers of ancient knowledge and forgotten societies manipulating natural forces. But the inclusion of Uranus, a planet barely discovered, gave it a strange credence. Could these Ebon Circle folks have stumbled upon something real, some hidden connection between celestial bodies and earthly phenomena?
His mind drifted to the recent advancements in radio and early space exploration. Could the Harmony be a way to amplify these technologies, allowing for faster communication or even transportation – ideas that seemed like science fiction just a decade ago? The thought sent a jolt of excitement through him. If the Ebon Circle and their celestial key were real, it could rewrite everything they knew about the universe. Except there was a dark side too, for weaponizing such a force was a terrifying prospect in the current Cold War climate. Riker knew the world was teetering on a knife's edge, and the Harmony of the Seven, in the wrong hands, could be the push that sent it over.
But was there a way to counter it? His gaze flicked back to the weathered cover of the first book. Uncharted. Perhaps the answer wasn't just in the stars, but also in the history beneath his fingertips. With a determined glint in his eye, he reached for the second volume, its spine already cracked from eager exploration. He flipped through the pages, searching for any mention of a nautical association with the Ebon Circle. Then, a passage jumped out, a description of the legendary Leviathan – a behemoth of a warship, bristling with cannons and boasting an impossible number of masts. A shiver ran down his spine. The details, according to the text, mirrored the specifications mentioned in the first book for a vessel capable of harnessing the Harmony's power. 264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNMakbOTQm
Excitement crackled in the air around Riker as he slammed the second volume of Uncharted shut. The Leviathan, a warship built for the very purpose of harnessing the Harmony of the Seven, could be the key to everything. But a ship without a captain and crew was just a ghost story. He had a mountain of questions to answer. Where did the ship vanish? Was it lost at sea, a victim of the very forces it was designed to control? Or did the Ebon Circle scuttle it, fearing its power falling into the wrong hands? This secretive society couldn't have simply vanished into thin air. Were there any remaining descendants, rogue members, or hidden texts that could shed light on their rituals and how to manipulate the Harmony? Did they need specific materials, rituals, or instruments aboard the Leviathan to harness its power? 264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfO9F9IUgcr
The urgency gnawed at Billy. He couldn't afford to waste time. The next morning, he found himself rushing through the grand doors of the Library of Congress, a beehive of activity even in the early hours. He presented his credentials, explaining his interest in a potential early American warship and a possible connection to a secret society. The librarian, a kindly woman with spectacles perched on her nose, listened intently. "Early American warships, you say? Well, we have a wealth of resources here. For something truly unusual, though, you might want to explore the Thomas Jefferson Papers." Intrigue sparked in Billy's eyes. President Jefferson, a man known for his scientific curiosity, might hold the key.
He spent the day poring over meticulously handwritten letters, his heart skipping a beat when he stumbled upon a series of coded messages exchanged between Jefferson and an unknown recipient. The messages used a rudimentary cipher, which Billy, with his knowledge of codebreaking, managed to crack. They spoke of a "vessel of unmatched potential," a "celestial key," and a launch date scheduled for August 10th, 1804. Yet there were no direct mentions of the ship's name or specific design. However, a hand-drawn sketch tucked within one of the letters caught Billy's eye. It depicted a monstrous ship, dwarfing standard frigates with its seven towering masts and a vaguely serpentine figurehead. A shiver ran down his spine. This had to be the Leviathan.264Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjLqB7keaHS
Billy Riker returned triumphantly to his New York apartment an hour later and made two phone calls. Neither number he dialed was the one listed for Wingate, Macintosh (Mack).
