1594 - having served as a carpenter aboard a privateer, returned to receive instruction from Matthew Baker. 1599 - became keeper of the Plank Yard at Chatham. 1608 - launch of the rebuilt Ark Royal renamed Ann Royal. Began construction of the Prince Royal in the dry dock at Woolwich, against much opposition. 1630 - Travelled to Portsmouth to investigate the possible ‘worm’ problem. Appointed Resident Commissioner at Chatham. 1636 - began work on the 'Sovereign of the Seas' at Woolwich Dockyard.