Marryat, Frederick [key], 1792–1848, English novelist. He is famous for his thrilling tales of sea adventure. His 24 years of service in the British navy in various parts of the world provided background for his stories. Noted for their humor and robust vigor, his novels include Frank Mildmay (1829), Peter Simple (1834), Mr. Midshipman Easy (1836), and Snarleyyow; or, The Dog Fiend (1837). In his later years he devoted himself to writing adventure books for children, notably Masterman Ready (1841) and The Children of the New Forest (1847). A trip (1837–39) to North America resulted in his unfavorable account of American manners, A Diary in America (1839).
See The Life and Letters of Captain Marryat (1872) by his daughter F. Marryat; biography by D. Hannay (1889, repr. 1973).
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