The Maggie

In the same vein as the acclaimed Para Handy stories and TV series, this novel is based on one of Ealing Studios' most popular comedies, made in 1954. This is the first time The Maggie has been in print for many years. Mactaggart is the rascally skipper of the puffer The Maggie, a flimsy rust-bucket which hauls freight up and down the west coast of Scotland. When wealthy American businessman Calvin B. Marshall, General Overseas Manager of World-International Airways, wants to transport a precious cargo to his newly bought mansion on Kiltarra in the Western Isles, Mactaggart manages to trick Marshall's agent into hiring The Maggie for GBP300, a sum that might be useful for some much-needed repairs. Marshall learns that his valuable cargo is at risk in a vessel that's less than seaworthy, he does all in his power to have the valuable cargo transferred to a more reliable vessel. What Marshall is not prepared for is the wily Mactaggart's sly delaying tactics and crafty machinations. What follows is a hilarious and unexpected journey that will have unforeseen consequences for everyone involved …