What a name, right? Well, the situation is this. Machteld, as I envisioned it, does not make sense. We've been over that. But the thing is, I just can't reconcile it. The Dutch didn't build with teak, a semi-privateer wouldn't be able to operate that way (not for long, anyway!), and there are just too many holes. Essentially what I was doing was crafting a pirate story, or possibly a heroic Golden Age story. Either could be fun, but simply don't fit with the period I have my heart set on and, frankly, enjoy the most.
Instead.
The ship in question will be Dageraad, 18, built 1780 in Amsterdam. She will be taken by the English in 1781 near Saldhana Bay (not in the actual battle, mind! Just like Aubrey, we'll set things near, not at or during.) The English will have entered her as Dagger, and all but immediately laid her up, because, well, what officer would want a ship like that?
Following that, Dagger will be sold off in 1795, and a exiled Dutch captain will purchase her. He'll also come by letters of marque and reprisal, and exception from impressment. He'll sail Dagger to the East Indies, intent on at least somewhat representing Dutch interests there/"supporting their British allies."
On the way there, from weather and action, maybe a reef, Dagger will be badly damaged, and he hauls her up for repairs. Those repairs see Dagger essentially rebuilt - with teak! Her heart, the framing, will remain good, honest, strong Dutch oak, but her armour will be teak. Since the ship will be restored (and improved), the captain sees fit to restore her name, and she will be Dageraad once more. He will also fit her with a lion figurehead painted red.
So that's my compromise on having a Dutch-built teak privateer. And it's one I think I can actually live with.
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