On 1st June 1666, during the second Anglo-Dutch War, a large but outnumbered English Fleet engaged the Dutch off the mouth of the Thames in a colossal battle that was to involve nearly 200 ships and last four days. False intelligence had led the English to divide their fleet to meet a phantom fleet from France and although the errant squadron rejoined on the final day of the battle, it was not enough to redress the balance. More than 1,500 English sailors were killed, 2,000 taken prisoner and two vice admirals killed. The battle ended when the English escaped into a fog bank, both fleets by this time having expended their ammunition. Like many a defeat, it sparked controversy at the time, and has been the subject of speculation and debate ever since. The battle was an event of such overwhelming complexity that for centuries it defied description and deterred study, but this superbly researched book is now recognised as the definitive English-language account. First published in 1996, it provides the only clear exposition of the opposing forces, fils many holes in the narrative and answers most of the questions raised by the actions of the English commanders. The narrative is totally engrossing and worthy of what was the greatest battle anywhere in the age of sail, and this new paperback edition will bring the story to new readers who missed the book in its earlier editions.

It has been my privilege to work with Frank in the recreation of his life story. He continues to amaze me with his clarity for remembering specific details of a life some eighty years ago. In him I have found many parallels to my own life, as I was a foster child too. His re-account of the day he was taken away from his parents brings my own story flooding back to me as I re-lived that day too. My eyes have been opened as to the real significance of life, what matters most; a life spent in search of God and service to Him. Through Frank, I have realized how it is important to be seen as a person of integrity, and do what is right simply because it is the right thing to do. Always typing with a smile on my face, I am amazed, when he comes up with the most off-the-wall ideas, and jokes. I have found that faith in God, and laughter really are the best medicine for a damaged soul. Frank Lloyd Fox was born on May 19, 1928. At birth he was Lester Lloyd Potter. This is the story of his life, from the tender age of four until now. After the death of his mother, he, his father and his siblings traveled in a covered wagon, looking for work in the middle of the Great Depression. Times were excruciatingly hard, malnutrition racked his body, and he witnessed the tragic deaths of his sister and mother. As a young child, he watched helplessly as his father tried in vain to care for them. After being taken from an orphanage he was adopted by Clarence and Olive Fox, and raised as their son. Frank credits his adoptive parents for their unconditional love and support throughout his life. He feels his life has been shielded, as if in a bubble. Always guided by the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit, the bubble is his source of protection and wisdom, received through his unfaltering faith in God.