Book excerpt: Emerging like a butterfly from its chrysalis, a remarkable little ship, the Sheemaun, springs from her designer's drawing-board to sail through eight decades of history, gathering in her wake a unique collection of admirers, including former owners, former crews, and those who served courageously on her during WW2. Their stories are revealed here; tales of bravery and daring, accounts of bombs, mines, depth-charging and death; stories of espionage and smuggling; and memorable chronicles of Royal occasions, cruising, maritime festivals and much else.This fascinating, deeply engrossing true story takes the reader into the heart and soul of the Sheemaun and of all those who have loved her.