Wetjen, Albert Richard "The Extra Hand"

Set during World War 2. Infirm Captain Barkley is called out of retirement to take the aged freighter MONTREAL — not sailing in convoy — across the Atlantic to France. The Post tag line neatly summarizes the plot: “They thought Captain Barkley was too old to command a freighter laden with TNT. But when the fire broke out, they discovered that youth has no corner on glory.” Mr. Barrow, the vessel’s young First Mate observes and learns from his captain’s experience. He also learns that the “Extra Hand” signed onboard the freighter by the shipping company’s port captain is none other than Death.