Description

"By England's Aid" is a historical novel by G.A. Henty, published in 1895. The story is set during the late 16th century, a time of great conflict between England and Spain, and follows the adventures of two young Englishmen who become involved in the struggle against the Spanish Armada.

The book begins with the story of two cousins, Cyril and Edgar, who are living in Devonshire, England, when they become involved in a skirmish with Spanish sailors who have come ashore to raid a village. The boys fight bravely and are taken aboard a ship belonging to Sir Francis Drake, one of England's most famous sea captains.

From there, the boys embark on a series of adventures as they sail with Drake and other English captains to harass and raid Spanish ships and ports along the coast of Spain. The book is full of action, including sea battles, sword fights, and daring escapes.

As the English prepare for the imminent threat of the Spanish Armada, Cyril and Edgar are sent on a dangerous mission to France to gather intelligence on Spanish troop movements. Along the way, they encounter treacherous French nobles and narrowly escape capture.

Finally, the Spanish Armada arrives, and Cyril and Edgar fight alongside English soldiers and sailors in the battle that decides the fate of England. The book ends with the defeat of the Armada and the boys' return to England as heroes.

"By England's Aid" is a classic adventure story, full of action, intrigue, and historical detail. It celebrates the bravery and resourcefulness of the English people in the face of a powerful and determined enemy, and it portrays the conflict between England and Spain as a struggle for freedom and national identity. While the book may be somewhat dated in its attitudes and assumptions, it remains a thrilling and entertaining read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction or adventure stories.