Gabe's only concern was the gaff and boom. It had caused a few "headaches" in the early part of the commission but now the crew was wizened to

HMS Seawolf the dangers and no recent injuries had been reported.

Some consideration had been given to the master's comfort when SeaWolf had been constructed, leaving Gabe to believe the previous master had likely been a part owner of the vessel if he didn't own it outright. To allow for more head room in the master's quarters a poop deck had been created. The gaff and boom hung amidships over the poop and was maneuvered by a block-and-tackle that was secured aft to the larboard and starboard sections of the poop. The ship's wheel was located just behind the poop and slightly starboard. SeaWolf had been built by shipbuilders who knew their business.

SeaWolf’s complement was written as one-hundred thirty. However, Gabe was happy to have a crew including officers and marines of one-hundred twenty-one. Some of the crew had been with Gabe on Drakkar. It was a comfort having known men when the commission first began.

However, everyone now knew their commander's ways; else the bosun would know the reason why.

As Gabe made it on deck he was met by his first lieutenant, Everett Hazard, and the master, Mr. Blake. This was Hazard's first commission as an officer. He'd been a pressed man who had flourished in the Navy. He was slightly older than

Gabe and would likely end up with a command of his own at some point. He was one of a few who made it to the wardroom from the lower deck. He needed some polish in regards to a gentleman's ways but his seamanship was superb. That was what Gabe needed most, a real seaman.

What could be said about the master? A breed apart! He could tell you what the weather was going to do before even the weather knew. He was tall, bald and leathery. His eyes always seemed to be squinting.