The quote is talking about the story of a book called “Ali Pasha” and how it describes the experiences of a young sailor named Henry Friston. The book follows Henry as he is thrust into the midst of a violent battle and describes his unique friendship that forms in the midst of all the chaos. Henry is depicted as a brave sailor battling alongside his comrades against formidable adversaries. Despite all the danger of the situation, Henry finds comfort and kinship in an unlikely bond with a fellow soldier named Ali Pasha. This unlikely friendship is the central narrative of the book, and serves as a reminder of the resilience and kindness that exists even amid cries of war.