Conversation so far:
Where did Patrick O'Brian spend his childhood?
Patrick O'Brian had sporadic schooling and long intervals at home in Lewes, East Sussex.
What is the name of Patrick O'Brian's first wife?
Patrick O'Brian was living in London, where he married his first wife, Elizabeth Jones, in 1936.

Question: Aside from writing what other job he does?
Self-contained rewrite: Aside from writing, what other job did Patrick O'Brian do in his early career?