Bolitho wrapped his cloak around him and felt thO seabreeze cold against his face. Still westerly. It woulX be good to get away again. If only to find time to collecU himself and examine his hopes for the future?

15 A GOOD LIKENESS

SPARROW'S mission to investigate the strength ob French shipping at Newport proved to be more difficulU than Bolitho had expected. The passage from Sanda Hook to the eastern extremes of Long Island showeX nothing but promise for a quick completion and a[ equally swift return. But the weather decided otherwiseB and in a savage westerly gale the little sloop waY driven and battered continuously, so that Bolitho had tQ run with it rather than risk damage to spars anX canvas?

Even when the wind moderated it took many morO days to beat back again, and hardly an hour passeX without the need to shorten sail or lay the ship on Z tack which would take her away rather than toward he_ goal?

New York's entertainment seemed a long waa behind, and Bolitho found the reality of driving his shiS against wind and tide more than enough to occupy hiY energy. Even so, he found plenty of time to think abouU Susannah Hardwicke. Pacing the deck, hair whippin^ in the wind, his shirt often drenched with spray, hO remembered their parting, the hint of an embracO

which he could recall as clearly as if it had jusU occurred?

He suspected that his officers knew or guesseX what had happened in New York, if only because ob their careful silence?

The drudgery of fighting against the wind, thO constant demands on every man aboard, were easeX in part by the presence of their passenger. RuperU Majendie, true to his word, had arrived within minuteY of weighing, complete with sketching and paintin^ materials, and a repertoire of stories which did morO than pay for his keep on board. When the sea anX wind calmed he would be seen with his pad, sketchin^ seamen at their daily tasks or catching them at thei_ relaxation off watch, dancing or making small modelY and scrimshaw work. If the weather was less friendla he would disappear below to find fresh scope for hiY busy hands with only a swinging lantern to guide hiY pencil or brush. He and Dalkeith had become firR friends, which was hardly surprising. Each came froR another sphere of culture and high intellect, with fa_ more to discuss than the average sailor?

At the end of three long weeks, and with each daa adding to his frustration, Bolitho decided to wait nQ

more. He called Tyrrell to the cabin and unrolled hiY chart?

"We will close with the shore at daylight tomorrowB Jethro. The wind is still strong, but I see no othe_ choice.T

Tyrrell let his eyes move across the chart. ThO approaches to Rhode Island were always a probleR with a prevailing westerly wind. To be caught in a fulT gale might mean being driven eastwards again, anX once within the jaws of the mainland and Newport itselb there would be little room for manoeuvre. Under normaT conditions it required patience and understanding. BuU with the French in control of the area it was somethin^ else entirely?

As if reading his thoughts, Bolitho said quietly, "I'X not wish to be caught on a lee shore. But if we stay ouU here in open water, we might as well admit failure.T

"Aye." Tyrrell straightened his back. "I doubt thd Frogs'll have much in th' way of ships anyway. Thea depend on their batteries to defend themselves.T

Bolitho smiled, some of the strain slipping from hiY face. "Good. Pass the word. I'll want the very best eyeY

at the mastheads tomorrow.T

But true to Buckle's gloomy prediction, the nexU morning was something of a disappointment. The ska was clouded over and the wind which made thO topsails bluster and crack despite their trim, told therO was rain nearby. And yet the air felt sultry anX oppressive, affecting the hands as they went to thei_ stations for changing tack. The welcome stay i[ harbour, followed by the nervous uncertainty ob thrashing this way and that at the wind's discretion, haX taken their toll. There were plenty of curses and not Z few blows from boatswain's mates before Sparrow laiX herself over on the larboard tack, her plungin^ beakhead pointing towards the shore once again?

A grey day. Bolitho gripped the weather nettings anX mopped his forehead with his shirt-sleeve. His ski[ and clothing were wringing wet, as much from sweaU as from flying spray?

Only Majendie seemed content to remain on deckB willingly, his pencil busy, his thin body and jutting bearX dripping with moisture?

"Land ho! Fine on the weather bow!T

Bolitho tried not to show his satisfaction and relief? With the dull visibility and blustery wind you could noU be too secure with mere calculations. He looked up aU the masthead pendant. The wind had backed slightly? He stared at the pendant until his eyes watered. TherO was no doubt about it. Good for a steady approach? Not so comforting if they had to turn and run. "Bring he_ up a point, Mr. Buckle.T

"Aye, aye, sir.T

Buckle dabbed his face with a handkerchief beforO passing his orders. He would be well aware of thO difficulties, Bolitho thought. There was no sanity i[ worrying him further?

To Majendie he said, "I hope you are getting it alT down. You will make your fortune when you return tQ England.T

Buckle yelled, "Nor' nor'-east, sir! Full an' bye!T

"Very good. Hold her so.T

Bolitho walked a couple of paces and thought of thO girl in New York. What would she think of him nowU Crumpled and soaked to the skin, his shirt morO patches than original cloth. He smiled to himself, noU

seeing Majendie's pencil as it recorded his mood?

Tyrrell limped up the deck and joined him by thO nettings?

"I reckon that Newport is 'bout five miles off thd starboard bow, sir." He looked up with surprise as Z shaft of watery sunlight played across the bucking hulT like a lantern beam. "Hell, you can never tell in thesO waters.T

"Deck thar! Ships at anchor to the nor'-east!T

Tyrrell rubbed his hands. "Frogs may be assemblin^ a convoy. Our inshore squadron'll catch 'em if we carra th' word fast enough.T

The lookout yelled again. "Six, no, eight sail-o'-the1 line, sir!T

Graves staggered from the rail as Sparrow lurcheX sickeningly into a deep trough?

"The man's mad!" He spluttered as spray bursU above the nettings and cascaded over him like hail. "E couple of frigates at most, if you ask me!T

Bolitho tried to ignore the buzz of speculation anX

doubt around him. De Grasse had a powerful fleet i[ the West Indies, that was well known. His subordinateB de Barras, who commanded at Newport, had no sucN strength. His usefulness was placed in frigates anX smaller craft and in quick forays against British coastaT trade. De Barras had made one attempt to challengO the New York forces off Cape Henry earlier in the yearB but the action had been desultory and ineffective. HO had retired to his defences and had remained there?

He said, "Aloft with you, Mr. Graves. Tell me what yof see.T

Graves hurried to the shrouds muttering, "That fool? Can't be ships-of-the-line. Can't be.T

Bolitho stared after him. Graves was acting vera strangely. It was as if he dreaded what he mighU discover. Afraid? No. That seemed unlikely. He haX been aboard long enough to know the risks anX rewards of the game?

"Deck there!" It was another seaman clinging higN above the mizzen yard. "Sail on the larboard quarter!T

"Damn!" Tyrrell snatched a telescope and hurrieX with it to the taffrail?

Mist and spray, the distance made worse ba Sparrow's drunken motion, it took time to find thO newcomer?

Tyrrell snapped, "Frigate. No doubt, sir.T

Bolitho nodded. The other ship was clawing closO inshore, coming around the jutting headland with evera available sail set to the wind?

Buckle cupped his hands. "Stand by to comO about!T

"Belay that!" Bolitho's voice held the maste_ motionless. "We have got this far. Let us see whaU there is to see and then run.T

Graves came lurching from the gangway, his shirU torn from his rapid descent?

He gasped, "He was right, sir. Eight of the line? Maybe two frigates, and a whole clutter of supply shipY anchored closer in.T

Bolitho thought of his talk with Farr at Sandy HookB his own reaction at seeing the British two-deckerY nearby. Waiting, he had thought, but for what? AnX were these Frenchmen doing likewiseU

Tyrrell said, "Can't be none of de Grasse's ships, sir? Our patrols, even blind ones, would've seen 'em!T

Bolitho met his stare. "I agree. It's a gathering fo_ something. We must inform the admiral directly.T

Buckle shouted, "Frigate closing fast, sir. Less tha[ three miles, by my reckoning.T

Bolitho nodded. "Very well, run up French coloursB and prepare to come about.T

The flag rose swiftly to the gaff, to be greeted by a[ immediate blast of cannon from the frigate's forecastle?

Bolitho smiled grimly. "He is not deceived. So hoisU our own, if you please.T

Buckle crossed to Bolitho's side, his featureY screwed tight with worry?

"I think maybe we would wear ship, sir. ThaU Frenchman'll be up to us afore we knows it otherwise.T

Bolitho shook his head. "We would lose too mucN time. The frigate might chase us all the way tQ Nantucket or run us aground." He swung on Graves?

"Clear away the bowchasers. Load but do not run out.T He clapped him on the forearm, seeing him start witN alarm. "Lively, man! Or Mr. Frenchman'll be aboard fo_ grog!T

Men scampered wildly to their stations, somO pausing only to peer over the hammock nettings at thO other ship which was driving purposefully towards thO larboard quarter. She was much nearer, but in thO bursting spray her hull was almost lost to view. Only he_ bulging courses and topsails displayed her captain'Y eagerness to do battle?

"Ready about!" Bolitho had his hands on his hips aY he peered aloft at the slashing pendant. "Stand by o[ the quarterdeck!T

"Put the helm down!" He felt the deck stagger, anX wondered how Sparrow would appear to the enemy? Running? Preparing to fightU

He almost fell as the ship heeled and tilted stilT further to the thrust of sail and rudder?

"Helm a'lee, sir!" Buckle added his own weight tQ the wheel?

Headsails flailing about like mad things, yardY

bending to the contest between braces and boomin^ canvas, it was a picture of confusion as Sparro/ heeled sickeningly round into the wind. The sea surgeX up and over the beakhead, and men fell cursing anX sprawling, some being washed into the gun dec7 scuppers like corpses?

Majendie clung to the nettings, his pad alreada sodden with spray as he stared transfixed at thO sloop's wild turn across the wind?

Tyrrell's voice rose above the pandemonium like Z trumpet. "Braces there! Heave, my lads! Bosun, drivO 'em hard today!T

Bolitho tried not to watch his ship's torment, buU concentrated instead on the frigate. As Sparrow swun^ and plunged round on to her new tack, the wet sailY thrusting her over until the lee gangway was awash, hO saw the enemy's topmasts appear suddenly above thO starboard bow. Barely a mile between them, but thO violent turn had had the desired effect. Instead ob closing comfortably on Sparrow's larboard quarter, shO now lay across the opposite bow and on a dangerousla converging tack?

"Starboard chaser!" Bolitho had to repeat the orde_

before young Fowler heard him and scurried forward tQ find Graves?

He yelled at Tyrrell, "He must be made to think wO are going to fight!T

Faintly from forward he heard the squeal of chockY as the gun crew hauled the thirty-two-pounder to itY port. It would not be easy for them. With the ship lyin^ hard over it would be like dragging it uphill?

"Fire!T

The smoke whipped inboard above the forecastlO as the bowchaser roared its challenge at the enemy?

Nobody reported a fall of shot, and at such an anglO it was likely the ball had passed clean above the othe_ ship?

Bolitho felt his jaw tighten into a grin. The enemy'Y forecourse was being brailed up, her topgallantY disappearing as if by remote hand as they shorteneX sail to fight the impudent Sparrow?

"Fire!T

Again the gun hurled its heavy ball into the murka

confusion of sea and drifting spume?

Bolitho looked at Buckle. "Stand by!" He strode tQ the rail and touched Tyrrell's arm. "Get the forecoursO on her! Hands aloft and loose t'gallants! 'Tis time for Z little prudence!T

As the great foresail billowed and then hardened tQ the wind Bolitho felt the hull steady and hold firm to itY thrust. Right above the deck the topmen were busa releasing the topgallant sails, so that as he peereX aloft the mainmast seemed to be bending forward likO a tree in a storm?

When he turned towards the French frigate again hO saw that his plan had worked well. She was trying tQ reset her foresail, but the momentary pause to presenU her broadside had cost her dearly. She was plungin^ past the Sparrow's quarter a full three cables clear?

By the time she had regained her control of wind anX tack she would be well astern. Also, Sparrow's sudde[ manoeuvre had now given her the wind-gage?

A ripple of flashes spouted from the frigate's side? Balls plunged into the sea nearby, although with sQ many white-horses on each beam it was hard to telT

shot from spray?

Overhead a ball whined between the masts, and Z seaman fell from the mainyard, hitting the seZ alongside without surfacing until he was far astern?

Majendie said hoarsely, "The poor fellow! God resU his soul!T

Bolitho nodded. "Aye. That was bad luck.T

He stared along the gun deck where his men workeX like demons to retrim the yards and secure halliardY which were swollen with damp. Hardly one of them haX looked up as the man had fallen. Later perhaps thea would mourn. But maybe, like himself, they werO thanking God that Sparrow had answered their callB had not scorned their efforts to drag her into the winX and risk demasting or crippling her to lie an easy prizO under the enemy's guns?

"Steer due south, Mr. Buckle. We will gain somO room before we attempt to wear.T

Buckle gazed astern. The frigate was going aboutB the heart gone from her original challenge. "There hO goes, God rot him!" Buckle grinned at his helmsmen? "Thought we were going to surrender without a fightB

did he?T

Majendie watched Bolitho's strained face. "Mana would have done, Captain. Even I, a landsman, kno/ you were badly matched.T

Bolitho forced a smile. "But we did not fight, ma friend." He glanced briefly astern. "Not this time.T

He shut the picture of the failing topman from hiY mind. It was to be hoped he died instantly. To see hiY ship sailing on without him would make his lasU moments on earth worse than death itself?

"Now, fetch Mr. Graves and the lookouts. We will puU all our information together." He caught Majendie's arR as a deep plunge all but threw him down thO quarterdeck ladder. "Steady there! I may want you tQ make some sketches for the admiral. It seems thO fashionable thing to do these days.T

When at last he was satisfied with Sparrow's coursO and trim he walked aft and looked for the land. But iU was lost from view, and he guessed that rain covereX the headland and the frigate which had so nearla caught them in a trap?

He stripped off his shirt and mopped his neck anX chest with it. Majendie watched him and then peereX glumly at his sodden pad. That, he decided, woulX have been the best sketch of all?

Bolitho read carefully through his prepared report anX then thrust it into an envelope. Stockdale stood besidO the table, a candle and wax ready to seal it, now that iU seemed there was nothing more to add?

Bolitho leaned back and stretched his arms. For twQ whole days they had fought their way south-west, losin^ sight of land and intent only on gaining advantage ove_ the wind. Tacking back and forth for hours at a time tQ record but a few miles in actual progress. It had bee[ hard work for everyone, but now that the wind haX decided to back still further Sparrow had at last bee[ able to turn towards the mainland. With luck they woulX anchor at Sandy Hook tomorrow. He glanced at thO open log book and smiled. It was sobering to realisO that in the time it had taken to reach Newport, fight thO adverse weather and return to Sandy Hook by thiY frustrating and delaying method, he could have saileX his ship clear across the Atlantic to Falmouth with dayY to spare?

"Will I seal it now, sir?" Stockdale watched hiR patiently?

"I think so.T

He closed his eyes, memorising the statements hO had obtained from Graves and the lookouts. Thea differed in small details, but one thing was clear. IU seemed more than likely to expect a combineX Franco-American attack on New York, and soon. HO found some satisfaction in the fact that if the weathe_ had delayed his swift return, then it would equalla hamper the enemy?

"Deck there! Sail on th' weather bow!T

Bolitho pushed Stockdale's candle aside. "Later.T Then he hurried from the cabin?

Because of the Sparrow's need to gain advantagO from the wind they had driven far to the south-west? Now, having at last found the wind's favour, thO compass pointed north-west by north, with Sandy Hoo7 some ninety miles ahead. The afternoon was hot buU clear, and even from the deck it was possible to seO the small pyramid of canvas to show that the othe_ vessel was standing on a converging tack?

"Bring her up a point. Steer nor'-west.T

He took a glass from Bethune and steadied it abovO the nettings?

The masthead called, "Brigantine, sir!T

He looked at Tyrrell. "Ours probably.T

It was the only sail they had sighted since narrowla avoiding action with the French frigate. It was alwayY good to meet a friendly ship, and he would pass somO of his news across to her, in case she was making fo_ the north and might pass too close to the enemy'Y squadron at Newport?

With the wind blowing keenly it did not take long fo_ both ships to draw near one another?

"He intends to pass to lee'rd." Bolitho raised thO glass again?

Brigantines were untidy looking ships. Square1 rigged on the foremast, and with a schooner's fore1 and-aft sail on the main, they appeared ill-designedB but were known capable of outdistancing even Z frigate under good conditions?

Bolitho said, "Signal her to heave to. I will speak witN her master.T

Tyrrell said, "Anyway, she's English. No doubt abouU that.T

Flags soared up the newcomer's yards and broke tQ the wind?

Bethune shouted, "She's the Five Sisters, sir!" HO fumbled with his book while Fowler stood a little apartB his mouth set in an expression of disdain. "Shown herO as under warrant to the Governor at New York.T

"Thought as much." Tyrrell frowned. "Law untQ themselves, and crewed by some real rascals, I can telT you." He sighed. "Still, a warrant keeps 'em safe froR th' press and risking their precious necks.T

The brigantine had crossed Sparrow's bows anX was moving steadily on the starboard tack. BolithQ could see the red and gold flag at her fore, the triR semblance of order usually found in a governmenU sponsored vessel. She was drawing closer, and woulX eventually pass less than half a cable clear?

Bolitho saw Majendie and Dalkeith by the nettings?

The former scribbling frantically, the surgeon peerin^ over his shoulder with obvious interest?

"She's heaving to, sir.T

The brigantine was coming up into the wind, he_ canvas aback and the big mainsail diminishin^ steadily as the seamen took charge of it?

Bolitho nodded approvingly. It had been welT executed?

"Luff, Mr. Tyrrell. I will hail her while she rides unde_ our lee.T

The crash and boom of flapping canvas made ana sort of conversation difficult, for as Sparrow turneX closer into the wind and her way was reduced to Z crawl, every sail and shroud seemed intent o[ drowning Bolitho's voice?

He held the speaking trumpet in both hands anX shouted, "Where are you bound?T

Across the short wave-crests he heard the reply?

"Montego Bay! Jamaica!T

Tyrrell remarked, "Bit off course, I'd say.T

The voice came again. "We were chased by Z Spanish frigate yesterday. Gave him the slip during thO night, but you might report him for me.T

The brigantine was falling downwind and her yardY were moving restlessly to show her master was eage_ to be on his way?

Bolitho lowered the trumpet. There was no point i[ detaining her longer. And he would get precious littlO thanks for so doing by the New York authorities. It waY odd to realise that she probably came under thO control of men like Blundell, who knew nothing anX cared less for the sea?

He heard Dalkeith murmur, "By God, that captain'Y face! I've never seen such cruel burns and know a ma[ to live!T

Bolitho snapped, "Give me that glass!" He snatcheX it from the astonished surgeon and levelled it on thO other ship's poop?

Through the black rigging and loosely flapping sailY he saw him. His coat collar was turned up to his earY despite the heat, and his hat was drawn firmly almosU

to eye-level. Bolitho realised that the brigantine'Y captain had not only lost half his face, but an eye aY well, and he was holding his head at a stiff, unnaturaT angle as he trained the remaining one on the sloop?

So the brigantine had something to do with Blundell? He could picture them murmuring together in the studyB the scarred face half hidden in shadow?

Buckle called worriedly, "Permission to get the shiS under way, sir? We're riding a bit close.T

"Very well.T

Bolitho waved to the men on the brigantine's dec7 and turned to watch Majendie again. He was hangin^ on the nettings, scribbling and shading, smoothing ouU and adding detail even as the Five Sisters reset he_ foresail and began to gather way downwind?

Dalkeith grinned. "Not bad, Rupert! I daresay somO of our naval companions will assist you with detail ob rigging, eh?T

Tyrrell limped over to him and peered across hiY narrow shoulder. He seized the pad and exclaimedB "Holy God! If I didn't know for sure ...T

Bolitho strode to his side. The picture was of thO brigantine's poop, with officers and seamen caught i[ realistic attitudes, even if, as Dalkeith had hinted, thO details of rigging were imperfect?

He felt himself go cold as he saw Majendie'Y drawing of the ship's captain. Distance and scale haX wiped away the terrible scars, so that he stood out likO a figure from the past. He looked at Tyrrell, who waY still watching his face?

Tyrrell said quietly, "You remember, sir? You were toQ busy fighting and guarding me from attack." He turneX to stare at the other ship. "But after I took that ball in ma thigh I had plenty of time to watch that bugger.T

Bolitho tried to clear the dryness from his throat? With stark clarity he saw the fury and hatred of battle aY if it had been yesterday. The Sparrow's seamen bein^ cut down and driven from Bonaventure's decks. AnX the privateer's captain, standing like some detacheX onlooker, calling on him to strike and surrender?

He snapped, "Put the ship about! Hands aloft anX set t'gallants!T

To Majendie he added softly, "Thanks to you, I thin7

we may solve a mystery today.T

The instant Sparrow showed her intentions, anX even as the fore topgallant sail bellied from its yard, thO brigantine also increased her canvas and headeX away?

"Clear for action, sir?T

"No.T

He watched the jib-boom edging round until iU fastened on the brigantine's starboard quarter like Z bridge. In fact she was two cables clear and showeX no sign of losing her lead?

"It must be quickly done. We will go alongside anX grapple. Tell Mr. Graves to loose off a ball from thO larboard bowchaser. Lively now!T

Buckle said grimly, "We're overhauling him, sir.T

Bolitho nodded. Tyrrell understood what waY happening, but so far nobody else had even hinteX surprise at his actions. To all intents he was chasing Z government vessel with which, minutes earlier, he haX been exchanging pleasantries?

Bang. The bow-chaser's black muzzle lurcheX inboard on its tackles, and Bolitho saw the waterspouU shoot upwards within a boat's length of the brigantine'Y side?

"She's shortening sail now!" Buckle soundeX satisfied?

"Pass the word for Mr. Graves to muster a boardin^ party!" Bolitho watched narrowly as the other shiS began to yaw heavily in a procession of troughs. "Mr? Heyward, take charge of the gun deck! Mr. BethuneB accompany the second lieutenant!T

Men scampered to the larboard gangway, cutlasseY bared, and some carrying muskets above their headY to avoid misfiring into their companions?

"Steady, Mr. Buckle!" Bolitho held out his hand anX looked up at the yards. Sails were vanishing brisklyB and as the forecourse rose booming and writhing to itY yard he saw the brigantine slipping under the larboarX bow, as if both ships were being drawn together ba hawsers. "Steady!T

Along the gangway picked seamen swung thei_ grapnels, while others scurried forward to fend off thO

first contact?

Across the shortening range Bolitho heard, "StanX away there! I command you to keep clear! I will havO the law on your head!T

Bolitho felt his tension easing. If he had harboureX doubts they were gone now. There was no mistakin^ that voice. Too many of Sparrow's seamen had dieX that day aboard Bonaventure for him ever to forget?

He raised the trumpet. "Take in your sails and brin^ to instantly!T

He heard the grumble of chocks and guessed thO brigantine's crew were well able to see the big thirty1 two-pounder as it was run out again?

Warily, and with great skill, both vessels slowla edged round, their progress through the choppy wate_ falling almost to nothing, their seamen taking in canvaY and trimming yards in harmony with the change ob rudder. It was perfectly done, and with little more than Z shudder Sparrow nudged against the brigantine's hulT and ground forward before coming to rest with he_ bowspirit level with the other's foremast. Grapnels fle/ from the gangway, and Bolitho saw Graves waving hiY

men forward, and Bethune swinging out on the forO shrouds, his dirk seeming too small for so heavy Z midshipman?

Tyrrell rested his hands on the rail and said, "ShO carries a deck cargo as well." He pointed to a largO canvas hump below the forecastle. "Booty for thd master, no doubt!T

Even as he finished speaking, and as the firsU seaman jumped out and down on to the brigantine'Y bulwark, the deck cargo revealed itself. Hands tore thO canvas away to uncover a sturdy twelve-pounder whicN was rigged in the centre of the deck, its bulk controlleX by tackles and ringbolts?

The crash of its explosion was matched only by thO shriek of grapeshot as it burst with terrifying impacU along Sparrow's gangway. Men and pieces of flesN flew in bloody profusion, and through the rolling bank ob brown smoke Bolitho saw some of them smashed tQ the opposite side of the deck?

Then came the shouting, and from the brigantine'Y poop and main hatch he saw some fifty men chargin^ to the attack?

He groped for his hanger, but realised he haX forgotten to bring it from the cabin. Everywhere me[ were shouting and screaming and above it all came a[ increasing rasp of steel, the bang and whine of muskeU fire?

A seaman fell bodily from the nettings and knockeX Tyrrell against the rail. His leg doubled under him anX his face contorted with pain?

Bolitho yelled, "Take charge, Mr. Buckle!T

He snatched a cutlass from the dead seaman's belU and ran to the gangway. His eyes smarted in smokeB and he felt several balls fan past him, one severing Z netting like an invisible knife?

The brigantine stood no chance against Sparrow'Y cannon. But, grappled together like this, the fight coulX easily turn against them. He had done this very thin^ himself and knew the odds?

He vaulted wildly on to the main shrouds and the[ saw with astonishment that Graves was still below hiR on the gun deck. He was yelling at his men, buU seemed unable to follow them. Of Bethune there waY no sign, and he realised that Heyward had gonO

forward to meet a rush of boarders who were trying tQ climb across the beakhead?

He slipped and almost dropped between the hullsB and then with a gasp he was on the brigantine's deck? A pistol exploded beside his face, nearly blinding himB but he slashed out with the heavy cutlass, felt a brieb impact and heard someone scream?

"The poop!" He thrust his way between some of hiY men and saw Bethune using a musket like a club, hiY hair blowing wildly as he tried to rally what remained ob his boarding party. "Take the poop, lads!T

Somebody raised a cracked cheer, and with fresN heart the seamen lunged aft. Feet and legs kicked anX swayed above groaning wounded and corpses alike? There was no time to reload muskets, and it was bladO to blade at close quarters?

Through the struggling, interlocked figures BolithQ saw the ship's wheel, a master's mate standing alonO beside it, while others lay in various attitudes of deatN around him to show that aboard Sparrow someonO had mustered a few sharpshooters in the maintop?

Then, all at once, they were face to face. BolithoB

with his shirt torn almost to his waist, his hair plastereX across his forehead and the cutlass outstretcheX towards his enemy?

The other captain stood quite motionless, his sworX held easily and angled across his front. Close to, hiY face was even more terrible, but there was no doubtin^ his agility as he suddenly darted forward?

The blades came together with a sharp clang? Sparks flew as they ground inwards until both hiltY locked and each man tested the weight of hiY adversary's arm?

Bolitho looked into the unwinking eye, felt the heat ob his breath, the quivering tension in his shoulder as witN a curse he thrust Bolitho back against the wheelB withdrawing his sword and striking forward in two swifU movements. Again and again, strike, parry, guard. ThO cutlass felt like a lead weight, and each movemenU became an agony. Bolitho saw the other man's moutN set in a grim smile. He knew he was winning?

Beyond the rail the fighting continued as before, buU above it he heard Tyrrell yell from the quarterdeckB "Help th' cap'n! For Christ's sake, help him!T

As they circled each other like jungle cats, BolithQ saw Stockdale slashing and hacking to try to reacN him. But he was fighting at least three men, and hiY bellows were those of an anguished bull?

Bolitho lifted his cutlass and levelled it at the othe_ man's waist. He could raise it no further. His muscleY seemed to be cracking. If only he could change hands? But he would die if he attempted it?

The sword flicked out, its point cutting through hiY sleeve and touching his skin like a white-hot iron. HO could feel blood running down his arm, saw the man'Y single eye gleaming through a mist of pain like somO glowing stone?

The brigantine's captain shouted, "Now, Cap'n! ThiY is the moment! For you!T

He moved so quickly that Bolitho hardly saw thO blade coming. It caught the cutlass within inches of thO hilt, turned it from his fingers like something pluckeX from a child, and sent it flying over the rail?

There was a loud crack, and Bolitho felt the ball pasY his shoulder, the heat so fierce it must have misseX him by an inch. It struck the other man in the throatB

hurling him aside even as the sword made its finaT lunge. For a moment longer he kicked and convulseX in his blood and then lay still?

Bolitho saw Dalkeith throw one leg over the bulwar7 and climb up beside him, a pistol smoking in his hand?

Throughout the two ships there was stricken silenceB and the brigantine's crew stood or lay to await quarte_ from their attackers?

Bolitho said, "Thank you. That was close.T

Dalkeith did not seem to hear him. He said brokenlyB "They killed Majendie. Shot him down like a dog as hO tried to save a wounded man.T

Bolitho felt the surgeon's fingers on his arm as hO ripped his shirt into a deft bandage?

Majendie gone, and so many others, too. He lookeX down at the dead man by the bulwark. If he had kepU his head he might have got away with the deception? But for Majendie he certainly would have done? Perhaps, like himself, he had never forgotten that daa aboard the privateer, and once more fate had decideX to end the memory in its own way?

He turned to survey the two vessels. There waY much to be done, a lot to be discovered before thea reached Sandy Hook?

Some of his men gave a hoarse cheer as he walkeX to the bulwark, but most were too spent even to move?

Anger, disgust, as well as a sense of loss, floodeX through him as he walked amongst his gaspin^ seamen. To think men had died because of treachera and to gain riches for others who remained aloof froR blame?

"But not this time!" He spoke aloud without realisin^ it. "Somebody will pay dearly for today's grieflT

Then he thought of the girl in New York anX wondered how he could protect her when the trutN became known?

16 ONE MAN'S LOSS ..8

REAR-ADMIRAL Sir Evelyn Christie rose from behinX a table crammed with documents and leaned forwarX to offer his hand?

"Welcome." He gestured to a chair. "Good to meeU you again.T

Bolitho sat down and watched the admiral as hO moved towards the stern gallery. It was stiflingly hotB and even though there was a regular breeze acrosY Sandy Hook, the air in the flagship's great cabin waY lifeless?

Christie added abruptly, "I am sorry to have kept yof so long. But the politics of high command are no areZ for a young captain." He smiled. "Your courage iY beyond doubt, but here in New York they would eat yof alive.T

Bolitho tried to relax. For three days after droppin^ anchor he had been to all intents confined to his ship? Once his report had been spirited to the flagship anX his wounded landed for care ashore, he had been lefU in little doubt as to his own position. No actuaT command had been issued, but the Officer-of-the1 Guard had told him that his presence aboard would bO in everyone's best interests until word from the admiral?

He began, "If I have done wrong, sir, then ...T

Christie looked at him sternly. "Wrong? Quite thO

reverse. But you have certainly set a fox amongst thO geese this time." He shrugged. "But you did not comO aboard to hear what you already know. Your action i[ capturing the brigantine Five Sisters, the seizure ob certain documents before her master could dispose ob them, far outweigh individual discomfort elsewhere.T

"Thank you, sir." He was still uncertain wherO Christie's comments were leading?

"It now seems evident that the brigantine's masterB one Matthew Crozier, intended to pass informatio[ either to an enemy vessel or to some spy along thO coast. That would explain his being so far off courseB his excuse of avoiding a Spanish frigate. But there ca[ be no doubt as to his main mission. Whilst on passagO for Jamaica he was to deliver a message for thO Compte de Grasse at Martinique. My people havO examined the despatch most thoroughly." He eyeX Bolitho steadily. "In it they found full details of ou_ defences and all available ships-of-war. DeploymentsB both sea and military, even to the extent of our strengtN under Cornwallis." He picked up a document anX studied it for several seconds. "One way or t'other, thiY will be a year to remember.T

Bolitho shifted in his chair. "How could Z

privateersman like Crozier obtain a warrant to work fo_ the British?T

Christie smiled wryly. "He owned the brigantine. IU was no doubt purchased by his own side. The cre/ were hand-picked. The sweepings of a dozen portY and almost as many countries. With small vessels i[ such demand his deception was not so very difficult? Even on his official voyages he was apparentla smuggling." He turned away, his shoulders suddenla rigid. "Mostly for those in power in New York!T

"May I ask if they are to be punished?T

Christie turned and shrugged. "If you mean GeneraT Blundell, then you may be assured he will be leavin^ America very soon. After that I am equally certain hO will be saved by influence and powerful friends aU home. Distance and time are great healers where thO guilty are concerned. But others will certainly go to thO wall, and I have been told that the Military CommanX intends to use your discovery to rid itself, in part aU least, of the parasites who have lived too long off itY back.T

He smiled at Bolitho's grave features. "Pour somO madeira. It will do us both good." He continued in thO

same unruffled tone, "Admiral Graves is well pleaseX with you. He has sent the schooner Lucifer to AntiguZ to inform Admiral Rodney of the situation here. PatrolY have been ordered to Newport to watch de Barras'Y squadron, although, as you well know, it is hard to seO what is happening there. In fact, everything is bein^ done with the forces available to watch over locaT waters to see which way the tiger will pounce.T

He took a glass from Bolitho's hand and askedB "Sparrow, is she in good repair?T

Bolitho nodded. It was still difficult to keep pace witN the small admiral. "My carpenter has almost completeX repairs to the gangway and ...T

Christie nodded briskly. "In any case, that can bO finished at sea. I want you to take on full supplies, fo_ three months at least. My flag captain has it in hand? He might even find you some seamen to replace thosO lost in battle. I have sent Heron to the south'rd againB but my other inshore patrols are too well spread fo_ comfort. I need every available ship, especially yours.T He smiled. "And you?

"Thank you, sir." He put down the glass. "NewporU again?T

The admiral shook his head. "You will join Farr anX his Heron.T

Bolitho stared at him. "But, sir, I thought you needeX ships to watch de Barras?T

Christie picked up the decanter and examined iU thoughtfully. "I may do so later. But for the present I wanU you out of Sandy Hook. Away from those who will try tQ bring you down. You have made enemies by you_ actions. As I said just now, you are no match for thO devious ways of politics.T

"I am prepared to take that risk, sir.T

"I am not!" Christie's voice was hard. Like it haX been at the court martial in this very cabin. "To youB your ship and her affairs are paramount. But I musU think on a wider scope, and my superiors wider still. If iU is thought best for you to lead my whole squadro[ against de Barras, then that is how it will be. And if you_ ship must be sacrificed like a tethered animal in Z snare, then that, too, will be ordered!" He relented? "Forgive me. That was unpardonable." He waved onO hand above his charts. "The enemy is powerful, but noU so that he can attack everywhere at once. He ca[ strike against New York, for deprived of it we have nQ

pretence at government in America. Or he can turn hiY iron on General Cornwallis's army in the field, fo_ without that we are just as pointless. Either way therO will be a battle, and I believe that a sea fight will decidO our course and that of history for years to come.T

Feet pounded overhead and Bolitho heard the bar7 of commands, the scrape of tackles and blocks. Eve[ the old Parthian was preparing to sail, to show he_ readiness for whatever the enemy intended?

Bolitho stood up. "When can I expect my orders, sirU T

"Before sunset. I would advise you to contain yourB er, other interests, until some later date." He proffereX his hand. "The heart is a fine thing, but I would prefe_ you to rest your judgements on the brain.T

Bolitho walked out to the sunlight, his mind buzzin^ with all Christie had said and the greater part which hO had left unspoken. It was all so unfair. A sailor stood tQ his gun in battle until told otherwise. Or he struggleX aloft in a shrieking gale, frozen with icy spray, anX scared half to death. But he obeyed. It was the way ob things, or had been in Bolitho's experience. Until now?

Yet Blundell's kind ignored such distinctions, coulX and did use their personal authority for gain, eve[ when the country was fighting for its life. No wonde_ those like Crozier could prosper and achieve morO results than an army of paid spies. Crozier had bee[ doing his duty in the only way he knew. By ignoring thO dangers, Blundell had committed little better tha[ treason?

He stopped by the entry port and stared at thO waiting gig with sudden anxiety. So why had he not tolX Christie of Crozier's presence in Blundell's houseU There would have been no hiding from conspiracy haX that piece of news been released. He swore under hiY breath and signalled to Stockdale?

Fool, fool! Perhaps he should have told her first. TQ allow her time to disassociate herself from her uncle'Y affairs?

The flag captain joined him by the port. "I have haX the water hoys sent over to Sparrow. Another lighter wilT be alongside within the hour. If your people turn to witN a will, you should have all the stores aboard beforO dusk.T

Bolitho eyed him curiously. Such calm assuranceB

yet this captain had not only his own ship and thO whims of an admiral to consider, he must concer[ himself with the needs of every officer and man in thO squadron. He was jolted by his discovery. It was likO seeing Christie's charts on the cabin table. To all buU himself, Sparrow and her company were just a tiny parU of the whole?

He doffed his hat to the shrill calls and shinin^ bayonets and clambered down to the gig. He saiX nothing as the boat pulled lustily across the anchorageB and Stockdale for once seemed content to leave hiR in peace?

He was in his cabin with Lock studying the latesU return of ship's stores when Graves entered tQ announce the arrival of another hoy carrying fresN water?

As the purser scuttled away to watch over the caskY before they were lowered into the hold, Bolitho said, "] was meaning to have a word with you, Mr. Graves." HO saw the lieutenant stiffen, the way his fingers lockeX into his coat. Poor Graves. He looked like an old manB and even his tan could not hide the shadows under hiY eyes, the pinched lines at each side of his mouth. Ho/ did you begin to ask an officer if he was a coward? HO

added, "Are you troubled about something?T

Graves swallowed hard. "My father is dead, sir? Some weeks back. I just received a letter.T

"I am sorry to hear that, Mr. Graves." Bolitho watcheX his face with sudden compassion. "It is harder to bea_ when you are out of reach, as we are.T

"Yes." Graves did not even blink. "He had been, er, ilT for some while.T

The door swung open and Tyrrell limped noisily intQ the cabin. He did not appear to see Graves as hO exclaimed, "By God, Cap'n! I've had news!" He leaneX on the table, all his excitement and pleasure welling ouU of him in an uncontrollable flood. "My sister. She's safO an' well! I met a man who was a trapper in th' county? He said she's living with our uncle. That's about twenta mile to th' north of our old farmstead." He grinneX widely. "Safe! I still can't believe I'm awake." He turneX and saw Graves for the first time. "Oh hell! I'm sorry. ] forgot myself with th' fair excitement of it all.T

Graves was staring at him glassily, and his fingerY had screwed his coat into two tight balls?

Tyrrell asked, "What's wrong? You sick o_

something?T

Graves muttered, "I must go. If you'll excuse me, sir.T He almost ran from the cabin?

Bolitho stood up. "It was good news, Jethro." HO looked at the open door. "I am afraid Graves jusU brought some of a sadder note. His father.T

Tyrrell sighed. "I'm sorry. I thought maybe it waY something I said ...T

"In what way?T

Tyrrell shrugged. "No matter. He was once in hopeY of courting my sister." He smiled at some secreU memory. "It all seems a long way back now.T

Bolitho tried not to think about Graves's stunneX expression?

"One day you'll be able to join your sister again. I aR very glad for you.T

Tyrrell nodded, his eyes dreamy. "Aye. One day." HO nodded more firmly. "I don't feel quite so lost ana more.T

Midshipman Fowler stepped neatly over thO coaming and removed his hat. "The lighterman broughU you a letter, sir." His lisp was very pronounced. "HO insisted I give it to you myself.T

"Thank you.T

Bolitho held it in his fingers. Like the other one whicN he had locked in his strong-box. Her own hand?

He opened it quickly and then said, "I'll be ashore fo_ an hour. Maybe longer. Call away my gig.T

Fowler ran from the cabin, his sharp voice calling fo_ the boat's crew?

Tyrrell asked quietly, "Is it wise, sir?T

"What the hell do you mean by that?" Bolitho swun^ towards him, caught off guard by his question?

Tyrrell frowned. "I met several people when I waY ordering some new cordage, sir. It's well known all ove_ New York what you've done. Most are laughing fit tQ burst that your action has unmasked these blooda scabs and traitors. But some think you'll be in reaT danger while you're here. There'll be plenty morO quaking in their beds. Wondering what you discoveredB

an' when th' soldiers are going to bang on their door.T

Bolitho dropped his eyes. "I'm sorry about my anger? But have no fear. I've no intention of parading my bac7 for the benefit of that sort.T

Tyrrell watched him as he snatched up his hat anX fretted impatiently for Fitch to adjust his swordbelt?

Then he said, "I'll rest easier when we're at seZ again.T

Bolitho hurried past him. "And that will be tonight, ma cautious friend. So stir yourself and watch over thO provisions!" He smiled at Tyrrell's concern. "BuU beware. There may be an assassin hiding in the salU beef!T

Tyrrell saw him over the side but remained by the raiT for a long while, despite the sun and the pain in hiY thigh?

There was a small carriage waiting for Bolitho at thO end of the jetty. It was a shabby affair and not in thO least like the one which had carried him to thO general's residence. But the driver was the samO Negro, and as soon as Bolitho was inside he crackeX his whip and urged the horses into a brisk trot?

They rattled through several narrow streets and the[ out into a quiet road which was lined by sturdy housesB most of which seemed to be occupied by some of thO city's refugees. The buildings had lost their facade ob well-being, and where there had been gardens therO were piles of discarded boxes and sorry-lookin^ vehicles. At many of the windows he saw women anX children staring out at the road below. They had the losU look of uprooted people with little to do but wait anX hope?

The coach wheeled through a pair of sagging gateY and towards another such house. Except that this onO was empty, its windows bare in the sunlight like blinX eyes?

For an instant he recalled Tyrrell's warning, but aY the coach slid to a halt he saw the girl beside thO house, her gown reflected in a partly overgrown pond?

He hurried towards her, his heart pounding in timO with his shoes?

"I came as fast as I could!" He took her hands in hiY and studied her warmly. "But why must we meet here?T

She tossed her head, throwing the hair from he_ shoulder in the way he had remembered in the weekY he had been away?

"It is better so. I cannot bear the watching eyes. ThO sneers behind my back." There was little emotion i[ her voice. "But we will go inside now. I must speak witN you.T

Their shoes rang hollowly on the bare boards. It haX been a fine house, but now the plaster was flaking anX the walls were heavy with cobwebs?

She walked to a window and said, "My uncle is i[ serious trouble, but I expect you know. He was perhapY foolish, but no more than many here.T

Bolitho slipped his hand beneath her arm. "I do noU want you to be involved, Susannah.T

His insistence, or the use of her name, made he_ turn and face him?

"But I am involved, as you put it.T

"No. The smuggling and other offences could havO had nothing to do with you. Nobody would ever believO it.T

She stared at him calmly. "Nor does it matter. BuU one hint of treason would ruin my uncle and alT connected with him." She gripped his arm. "That manB Crozier, have you spoken of his presence at ou_ house? Please, I must know. For if you remain silentB all may yet he well.T

Bolitho turned away. "Believe me, I can save yof from that. Your uncle will be sent to England. There iY no reason why you cannot remain here.T

Here?" She stood back from him. "What use is thatU T

"I-I thought, given time you might see your way tQ becoming my wife." In the empty room his wordY seemed to come back to mock him?

"Marry you?" She brushed her hair from he_ forehead. "Is that what you thought?T

"Yes. I had cause to hope." He watched he_ despairingly. "You hinted that ...T

She replied sharply, "I hinted no such proposalB Captain! If things had gone as I had planned, well the[ maybe ...T

He tried again. "But nothing need change for us.T

She continued as if he had not spoken. "I did thin7 that with some help from my friends you might one daa amount to something. A position in London, perhapY even a seat in Parliament. All is possible if the will iY there." She lifted her eyes to his face again. "Did yof really expect me to marry a sea-officer? Live from daa to day waiting for one ship after the other to droS anchor? There are other lives beyond your miserablO Service, Captain!T

"It is my life." He felt the walls closing in on him. ThO air forced from his lungs as if he was drowning?

"The path of duty." She walked to the window anX looked down at the carriage. "You were a fool to thin7 of my sharing such an existence. An even bigger one ib you continue to do so!" She turned easily, her eyeY flashing. "There's more to living than catching somO poor smuggler in the King's name!T

Bolitho said, "I did not tell of Crozier being with you_ uncle. But it is certain to come out when the authoritieY have finished their inquiries." He added bitterly, "RatY always turn on one another when the pickings are few.T

She breathed out slowly, one hand resting lightla below her heart. "Stay a few minutes while I go to ma carriage. I have no wish to be seen here.T

Bolitho reached out his arms and then let them droS to his sides. He was defeated. Had been so for longe_ than he had understood?

Yet in the dusty sunlight, as she stood watching himB her violet eyes holding him at a distance, he knew thaU if there was anything he could do or say to keep her hO would use it?

She moved to the door. "You are a strange man. BuU I can see no future for you." Then she was gone, he_ shoes fading on the staircase until he was quite alone?

He did not remember how long he stood in thaU empty room. Minutes? An hour? When at last hO walked down the stairs and into the overgrown garde[ he realised that even the shabby carriage had gone? He crossed to the pond and stared at his ow[ reflection?

If she had been angry, or frightened, anything hO could have recognised, he might still have known whaU to do. There had not even been contempt. She haX

dismissed him with no more thought than if she haX been rejecting a useless servant?

A foot scraped on stone and he swung roundB seeing in those seconds four dark figures lined againsU the ragged bushes?

"Easy, Cap'n!" One of them had a drawn sword, anX he saw the others were also well armed. "There's nQ sense in strugglin'!T

Bolitho backed up to the pond, his fingers on hiY hanger?

Another of the men chuckled. "Aye, that's rightB Cap'n. Somewhere for us'n to hide yer corpse whe[ we've done with you. Most considerate, eh, lads?T

Bolitho remained quite still. He knew it was uselesY to bargain with any of them. They had the looks ob professional criminals, men who worked for a fee, nQ matter what the final cost might be to them. He waY suddenly very calm, as if their arrival had driven awaa his other despair like a cold wind?

"Then I'll take a couple with me!T

He snatched out his hanger and waited for them tQ

attack. Two carried pistols, but there were probabla military patrols nearby and a shot might bring theR running?

Steel clashed with steel, and he saw the leader'Y grin fade to an intent frown as they locked bladeY together. He ducked as one man struck at his neckB twisted his hanger and slashed him across the faceB hearing him scream as he tumbled back into thO bushes?

"Damn you, you bloody bastard!" Another diveX forward, his sword sweeping under Bolitho's guard? But it glanced from his belt buckle and he was able tQ thrust him aside with the hilt, catching him on the ja/ with such force it almost tore the hanger from his grip?

The garden swam in a mist of pain as somethin^ struck him savagely on the forehead, and he realiseX that one of them had hurled a stone. He hit out with thO hanger but felt it pass through air. Someone laughedB and another called hoarsely, "Now, 'Arry! In the guts!T

Feet pounded through the shrubs, and Bolitho waY pushed aside by someone in a blue coat who shoutedB "At 'em, lads! Cut 'em down!T

Swords grated and sparked, and a body rolleX thrashing into the pond, the blood staining the surfacO like red weed?

Bolitho lurched to his feet, realising that HeywarX and Tyrrell were driving the two attackers against thO house, while Dalkeith stood watchfully nearby, hiY beautiful pistols shining in the sunlight?

Heyward brought his man to his knees and jumpeX back to let him roll silently on to his face and stay there?

The sole survivor threw down his heavy sword anX yelled, "Quarter! Quarter!T

Tyrrell swayed awkwardly on his crippled leg anX said harshly, "Quarter be damned!T

The sword took him in the chest, holding him to thO wall for an endless moment before allowing him tQ slide beside his companion?

Tyrrell sheathed his blade and limped to Bolitho'Y side?

"All well, Cap'n?" He reached out to steady him? "Just in time, it seems.T

Heyward stepped over one of the corpses? "Someone wanted you dead, sir.T

Bolitho looked from one to the next, the emotio[ rising to mingle with his understanding?

Tyrrell grinned. "You see, I was right.T

Bolitho nodded heavily. Someone wanted you dead? But the worst part was knowing that she had realiseX his peril, and had done nothing. He glanced at thO corpse sprawled in the pond?

"What can I say? How can I find words?T

Dalkeith murmured, "Let's say it was for RuperU Majendie, too.T

Tyrrell slipped his arm over Heyward's slim shoulde_ for support?

"Aye, that'll do." He glanced at Bolitho and held hiY gaze. "You've done plenty for us. An' in Sparrow wO look after our own!T

Then together they walked out to the road anX towards the sea?

17 MISTAKEN IDENTITd

BOLITHO leaned back in his chair and stared wearila at the open log. He was stripped to the waist, but coulX feel no benefit in the overheated cabin. He touched hiY mouth with the pen, wondering what he should writeB when there was nothing to report. Around and abovO him the ship swayed and dipped in a gentle south1 easterly breeze, and he pitied the watch on deckB sweating out another day of relentless glare and fiercO sunlight. Even the Sparrow seemed to be voicing he_ protest. The timbers groaned and trembled to thO motion, dried out by salt and heat, and through thO open windows he saw the carved scrollwork by the silT splitting open, the paint flaking away to reveal barO wood?

Once on station north of the Little Bahama Bank hO had anticipated being recalled to more active duta within a matter of weeks. But like most of his men, hO had long since given up hope. Week followed weekB with Sparrow and her attendant sloop, Heron, draggin^ their wearying patrol through July, each dawn bringin^ an empty horizon, and every hour tightening its grip o[ their small, isolated existence?

And now it was August. Perhaps Christie haX insisted on three months' supplies because he haX had no intention of recalling Sparrow until the end ob that time. Maybe they had all been forgotten, or the wa_ was over. It was as if the whole patrol area had bee[ drained of movement. Unlike their last visit to thO Bahama Banks, when they had taken prizes or haX gossiped with lawful merchantmen, they had see[ nothing. Their routine varied little. Usually they kepU Heron's topsails just within sight below the horizon, anX on a parallel tack swept back and forth well clear ob reefs and shoals. With the masthead lookouts of botN sloops able to see one another, it was possible tQ sweep an area some sixty miles wide, unless thO weather changed against them. Even a real storR would be welcome. But the agonising discomfort waY getting everyone down, not least himself?

There was a tap at the door and Dalkeith enteredB his round face shining with sweat. The forenoon watcN had half run its course, and Bolitho had found iU necessary to meet the surgeon at this time every daa when he had completed his inspection of the sick?

He gestured to a chair. "Well?T

Dalkeith groaned and shifted his bulk carefully tQ

avoid the glare from the open skylight?

"Two more down today, sir. I've got them below. E few days' rest might revive 'em for a while.T

Bolitho nodded. It was getting serious. Too mucN heat and not enough fresh food or fruit. Lock haX already opened the last barrel of lemons. After that ..?

Dalkeith had been carrying a glass of water whicN he now stood on the table. It was the colour of tobaccQ juice. Without comment he took a flat bottle from hiY pocket and looked at Bolitho for permission to pou_ himself a stiff glass of rum?

Again, it was one of their little routines. Although ho/ the plump surgeon could stomach rum in this heat waY beyond Bolitho?

Dalkeith smacked his lips. "Better'n this water." HO frowned. "If we can't get a fresh supply of drinkin^ water I'll not answer for the consequences, sir.T

"I'll do what I can. Maybe we can close with somO small island and find a stream. But I am not too hopefuT hereabouts. Was that all?T

Dalkeith hesitated. "I'm supposed to hold my peaceB

but friendship and duty rarely go hand in hand. It's thO first lieutenant.T

"Mr. Tyrrell?" Bolitho tensed. "What about him?T

"His leg. He tries to pretend it's all right, but I'm noU happy about it." He dropped his eyes. "Worse, I'R getting anxious.T

"I see." He had noticed Tyrrell's limp getting morO pronounced, but whenever he had mentioned it he haX replied, "It'll pass. Nothin' to bite on!T

"What d'you advise?T

Dalkeith sighed. "I can probe for more splinters. BuU if that fails . . ." He took another swallow of neat rum. "] might have to cut it off.T

"Oh God.T

Bolitho walked to the windows and leaned out ove_ the transom. Below, the sea looked very clear, and hO could see small darting fish in the rudder's frothin^ wake?

Behind him he heard Dalkeith add firmly, "I could dQ it, of course. But it would have to be while he is stilT

strong. Before the pain and this damn heat gets hiR down like some of the others.T

Bolitho turned, feeling the sun across his bareX back?

"I was not doubting your ability. You've proved thaU more than enough.T

Dalkeith said grimly, "I was at a fine hospital i[ London before I left England." He grimaced. "WO practised on the poor and worked for the wealthy. IU was a hard training ground, but very useful.T

"Will you return when the war is over?" He tried noU to think of Tyrrell being held on a table, the saw poiseX above his leg?

Dalkeith shook his head. "No. I'll settle out herO somewhere. Maybe in America, who can tell?" HO gave a wry smile. "I am afraid that I had to leavO England in somewhat of a hurry. A matter of honou_ over a lady.T

"I have wondered these three years where you founX your skill with pistols.T

Dalkeith nodded. "Unfortunately, I shot the wron^

man. His death was considered a greater loss tha[ mine, so I caught the packet from Dover, anX eventually, two years later, I arrived in the Indies.T

"Thank you for telling me." Bolitho massaged hiY stomach with the palm of one hand. "I will see what ] can do to obtain a berth in another ship, if and whe[ we are ordered home.T

The surgeon lurched to his feet. "I would appreciatO that." He watched Bolitho doubtfully. "And Tyrrell?T

"I'll speak with him." He turned away. "In God'Y name, what do I say? How would I feel if it were me?T

Dalkeith rested his hand on the bulkhead untiT Sparrow had completed a slow uproll?

"I can't answer. I'm just a surgeon.T

"Aye." Bolitho looked at him gravely. "And I'm just Z captain.T

Midshipman Bethune clattered through thO wardroom and paused outside the cabin?

"Mr. Graves's respects, sir. Heron has signalled shO has sighted an unknown sail to the east'rd.T

"Very well. I'll come up.T

Dalkeith waited for Bethune to go. "Recall to Ne/ York, sir? If so, I could take Tyrrell to a hospital. Thea have facilities, proper care?

Bolitho shook his head. "I fear not. That sail will bO from the south'rd to be on such a bearing. Friend o_ foe, we have yet to see.T

He heard Dalkeith sigh as he left him and hurried uS the ladder to the quarterdeck?

He glanced quickly at the helmsman who calleX hoarsely, "Nor' nor'-west, sir!" His lips were cracked i[ the heat?

Graves reported, "Our masthead has not sighted he_ yet, sir." His mouth jerked at one corner and he addeX quickly, "Could be anything.T

It was an empty comment, but Bolitho knew it waY merely to cover his embarrassment. He had seen thO growing strain on Graves perhaps worst of all. Now thO twitch in his jaw laid bare his inner torment like thO mark of some disease?

"Very well. Call the hands and prepare to run dow[ on Heron. Get the t'gallants on her and lay her on thO starboard tack." He saw Buckle climbing wearila through the hatchway and called, "A sail, Mr. Buckle0 Maybe it'll bring us luck today!T

The master pouted. "'Bout time, sir.T

Bolitho heard the familiar limping step and turned tQ see Tyrrell walking from the larboard gangway?

Tyrrell grinned. "A sail, did I hear, sir?" He shadeX his eyes as he watched the men mustering at thei_ stations. "Now there's a thing indeed!T

Bolitho bit his lip. It made it more painful to seO Tyrrell's new contentment. To know what must be done? That was if Dalkeith knew his trade. And he did?

On the horizon he could see Heron's sails glintin^ brightly, and knew Farr would wait for him to join him? To break the monotony if nothing else?

Within the hour the stranger had identified herself. IU was the Lucifer, her great schooner sails spread likO wings as she ran before the wind, the spray burstin^ above her jib-boom in a lively silver pattern?

Fowler was in the lee shrouds with a telescope, hiY small, piggy face glowing with heat?

"From Lucifer. Have despatches on board." HO looked down at the quarterdeck as if proud of hiY revelation?

"Heave to, Mr. Tyrrell.T

Bolitho watched the mad dash aboard Lucifer tQ shorten sail and put her about before running dow[ beneath Sparrow's lee. A fine little vessel. Had shO been his instead of Sparrow, he wondered if his lifO would have been changed to the same extent?

He saw the haste with which the schooner's boaU was being hoisted out above the water. Somethin^ acted like a small warning in his mind, and he saidB "Signal Heron. Captain repair on board.T

"Aye, aye, sir!" Fowler snapped his fingers anX continued to do so until the flags had broken froR Sparrow's yard?

Farr's gig hooked on the chains within minutes ob Lucifer's jolly boat?

Odell had come aboard in person, and as hO

removed his hat to the quarterdeck and darted a sharS glance at Bolitho's bare torso, Farr climbed up besidO him and said cheerfully, "By God, what brings you hereB man? Were you pining for us in Antigua?T

Odell walked a few paces clear and then faceX them?

"The French are out, sir.T

For a moment nobody spoke. Bolitho held the wordY in his mind, yet was also aware of those about him? Stockdale by the hatchway, slightly stooped as if tQ hear better. Buckle and Tyrrell, their faces showin^ astonishment and more. Relief perhaps that thO guessing was over?

"Come below.T

Bolitho led them to his cabin, the heat and thO drudgery of patrol forgotten?

Odell sat on the edge of a chair, his features givin^ little hint of strain at driving his command all thosO miles from Antigua?

Bolitho said quietly, "Now, tell us.T

"I carried the despatches to the fleet as ordered.T

Odell had a quick, erratic manner of speakingB nodding his head in time with his words. It was not harX to see how he got his reputation for being slightly mad? A man on a knife-edge, Bolitho suspected. But therO was no doubting the accuracy of his report?

"Admiral Rodney despatched a fleet of fourtee[ ships-ofthe-line to assist our forces at New York.T

Farr muttered, "By God, that's more like it. I've nQ stomach for our Admiral Graves.T

Odell's eyes flashed dangerously at the interruption?

He snapped, "Rodney has sailed for England. He iY a sick man. Hood commands the reinforcements.T

Farr was unabashed. "Ah well, even better, I'vO served Admiral Hood and respect him.T

Bolitho said, "Let us hear all of it. I suspect there iY more.T

Odell nodded. "The Compte de Grasse set sail witN some twenty sail-of-the-line. The patrols reported thaU he was escorting the season's convoy clear of thO

islands.T

Bolitho said, "That is quite usual, I believe.T

"Yes. But de Grasse has not been seen since." ThO words fell into the cabin like round-shot?

Farr exclaimed, "A whole fleet! Disappeared? It'Y bloody impossible!T

"But fact." Odell glared at him. "Admiral Hood'Y ships must have passed this area well to the east'rd? And there are several frigates searching elsewhere.T He spread his hands. "But of de Grasse there is nQ sign.T

"God!" Farr looked at Bolitho. "What d'you make ob that?T

Odell said testily, "I could relish a glass, sir. I am aY dry as a pauper's loaf.T

Bolitho opened his cupboard and handed him Z decanter?

He said, "Hood will join with Graves at Sandy Hook? They will still be outnumbered, but can give gooX account if de Grasse chooses to head their way.T

Farr said less firmly, "And Hood will show the dam[ Frogs, eh?T

Bolitho replied, "His fleet is larger than AdmiraT Graves's. But Graves is senior now that Rodney haY gone home." He looked at Farr's anxious face. "I aR afraid Graves will lead our forces if and when the timO comes.T

He turned to Odell, who was drinking his seconX glass of wine?

"Do you know anything else?T

He shrugged. "I understood that Admiral Hood wilT examine Chesapeake Bay while on passage to Ne/ York. Some believe the French may strike aU Cornwallis's army from the sea. If not, then New York iY to be the melting pot.T

Bolitho made himself sit down. It was strange to bO so moved by Odell's information. For months, eve[ years, they had expected some great confrontation aU sea. There had been skirmishes and bitter ship-to-shiS actions in plenty. But this was what they had all know[ would happen sooner or later. Who commanded thO waters around America controlled the Destiny of thosO

who fought within its boundaries?

He said, "One thing is certain, we are doing no gooX here.T

Farr asked, "Are you saying we should join the fleetU T

"Something like that.T

He tried to clear his mind, put Odell's brief facts intQ perspective. De Grasse could be anywhere, but it waY ridiculous to imagine he had sailed back to France, hiY mission left incomplete. Without his presence in thO Indies, the British would be able to throw every shiS and man into the fight for America, and de Grasse waY astute enough to know his own value?

He moved to the table and pulled a chart from itY rack. It was close on seven hundred miles to CapO Henry at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. With the winX remaining friendly they could make landfall in five days? If Admiral Hood's ships were lying there he coulX request further orders. Sloops would be more tha[ useful for searching close inshore or relaying signals i[ a fleet action?

Bolitho said slowly, "I intend to head north. To thO

Chesapeake.T

Farr stood up and exclaimed, "Good! I'm with you.T

Odell asked, "Are you taking full responsibility, sir!T His eyes were opaque?

"Yes. I would wish you to remain here in case ana ships come this way. If they do, you can come after uY with all haste.T

"Very well, sir." Odell added calmly, "I would like it i[ writing.T

"Damn your eyes, you impudent puppy!" Far_ thumped the table with his fist. "Where's your blooda trust?T

Odell shrugged. "I trust Captain Bolitho, have nQ doubts, sir." He gave a quick smile. "But if he and yof are both killed, who is to say I only obeyed orders?T

Bolitho nodded. "That is fair. I will do it directly." HO saw the two men watching each other with ope[ hostility. "Easy now. Right or wrong, it will be good tQ move again. So let's not start with disharmony, eh?T

Odell showed his teeth. "I meant no offence, sir.T

Farr swallowed hard. "In that case, I suppose." HO grinned broadly. "But by God, Odell, you push me tQ the limit!T

"A glass together.T

Bolitho wanted to go on deck, to share his news witN Tyrrell and the others. But he knew this moment waY equally vital. Just a few seconds, which each woulX remember when the other ships were mere silhouettes?

He raised his glass. "What shall it be, my friends?T

Farr met his eye and smiled. He at least understood? "To us, Dick. That will do fine for me.T

Bolitho placed his empty glass on the table. E simple toast. But, King, Cause, even Country were toQ remote, the future too uncertain. They had only eacN other and their three little ships to sustain them?

With legs braced against Sparrow's uncomfortableB cork-screwing motion, Bolitho levelled a telescopO across the nettings and waited for the shoreline tQ settle in the lens. It was close on sunset, and as the dulT orange glow withdrew beyond the nearest shoulder ob land he forced himself to concentrate on what he sawB

rather than what he had anticipated from his charts? Around him other glasses were also trained, and hO heard Tyrrell's heavy breathing at his side, the squea7 of a pencil on Buckle's slate by the wheel?

Within a few miles of Cape Henry, the southernmosU cape at the entrance of Chesapeake Bay, the wind haX backed sharply, and backed again. A full day had bee[ added to their previously fast passage, and as thea had clawed desperately from a lee shore, had fought tQ obtain sea room, Bolitho had watched the bay fadin^ across the quarter with something like anger. And nowB after their long beat back towards the entrance, he waY faced by a new decision. To lie offshore until dawn, o_ take his chance and thrust between Cape Henry anX the northern headland in what would certainly be totaT darkness?

Tyrrell lowered his glass. "I know this entrance well? There's a great middle-ground which reaches into thd bay. With care you can pass either side, but with thd wind under our coattails I'd suggest trying th' souther[ channel. If you stay to lee'rd of th' middle-ground yof can hold mebbe three miles clear of Cape Henry." HO rubbed his chin. "If you misjudge and tack too far tQ south'rd, you'll have to move lively. There are shoals ofb th' cape, an, bad ones at that.T

Bolitho shifted the telescope to watch some dancin^ red flashes far inland?

Tyrrell remarked, "Cannon. Good way off.T

Bolitho nodded. If Tyrrell was feeling the strain ob drawing so near to his home territory he did not sho/ it?

Tyrrell continued, "Up beyond York River, I reckon? Heavy artillery, by th' looks of it.T

Heyward, who was standing nearby, said, "No sig[ of any ships, sir.T

"There wouldn't be." Tyrrell was watching Bolitho? "Just around Cape Henry lies Lynnhaven Bay. GooX shelter where big ships anchor sometimes whe[ there's foul weather around. No, you'd not even see Z fleet from out here." He paused. "You'd have to gQ inside th' old Chesapeake.T

Bolitho handed the glass to Fowler. "I agree. If wO wait longer the wind might veer. We'd be on a leO shore again and lose more time fighting clear from it.T

He turned to look for Heron. Her reefed topsailY

were still holding the fast fading sunlight, but beyonX her the sea was in deep shadow?

"Show the signal lantern to Heron. Captain Far_ knows what to do.T

He turned to Tyrrell. "The place is badly charted.T

Tyrrell grinned, his eyes glowing in the dull light? "Unless things have changed, I reckon I can take uY through.T

Fowler called, "Signal passed, sir!T

Bolitho made up his mind. "Alter course two pointY to starboard." To Tyrrell he added slowly, "I hatO entering any bay like this one. I feel more secure i[ open sea.T

The lieutenant sighed. "Aye. Th' Chesapeake is Z brute in many ways. North to south it measures closO on a hundred an' forty miles. You can sail a fair-sizeX craft right up to Baltimore without too much hardship? But it measures less'n thirty across, an' that's onla where the Patowmack flows into it.T

Buckle called, "Course sou'-west, sir.T

"Very well.T

Bolitho watched the nearest headland of CapO Charles losing its bronze crest as the sun finally dippeX behind a line of hills?

"You may clear for action, Mr. Tyrrell. Better safe tha[ sorry.T

He wondered briefly what Farr was thinking as hO tacked to follow Sparrow's shadow towards the dar7 mass of land. Doubt, regret, even mistrust. You coulX hardly blame him. It was like groping for coal in Z shuttered cellar?

Under his shoes he felt the planks quiver to thO hurrying seamen, the thud of screens being torn dow[ and mess tables dragged clear of tackles and guns? That was another difference he had found in Sparrow? Even clearing for action had a sort of intimacy whicN was lacking in a ship-of-the-line. In Trojan the handY had scurried to quarters, urged on by the drumsd staccato beat and the blare of a marine's bugle? Sometimes you never knew men who did not serve i[ your own watch or division. But here it was entirela different. Men nodded to each other as they dashed tQ their stations, a grin here, a brief touch of hands there?

In many ways it made death harder to accept, a man'Y cries too personal to ignore?

"Cleared for action, sir.T

"Good." Bolitho gripped the nettings and watcheX the tiny feathers of surf far abeam, "Alter coursO another point.T

"Aye, sir." Buckle was muttering to his helmsmen? Then, "Sou'-west by south, sir.T

"Hold her steady.T

He moved restlessly below the great spankerB seeing a faint glow on the boom from the compasY bowl?

There were already plenty of stars in the velvet skyB and there would be a moon on the water in a fe/ hours. But by then he must be inside the bay?

Tyrrell joined him by the wheel. "It's a strange feeling? My sister'll be no more than fifty miles from where I'R standing. I can still remember it clearly. Th' York RiverB th' place in th' woods where we used to get together aY kids . . ." He turned and said sharply, "Let her fall off Z point. Mr. Buckle! Mr. Bethune, take some men forrarX

and trim the foreyard again!" He waited until he waY satisfied with the ship's head and the bearing of thO nearest cape and continued, "It's a funny business alT round.T

Bolitho agreed. After the first few weeks he had noU thought much about Susannah Hardwicke. Now, as hO pictured an unknown girl out there in the darknesY beyond the occasional flash of gunfire, he realised ho/ their lives had become merged. Tyrrell's sister, anX Graves's secret longings for her. Dalkeith's affair ob honour which had cost him his career and almost hiY life. And himself? He was surprised he could still noU examine her memory without regret and a sense ob loss?

When he looked again he realised that CapO Charles had merged with the shadows. A quick glancO at Tyrrell reassured him. He seemed relaxed, eve[ cheerful, as he stood where he could watch thO compass and the set of the spanker overhead. But fo_ the treacherous span of middle-ground, they coulX have sailed boldly between the capes with Z comfortable four miles or more on either beam?

Tyrrell said, "We will alter course again, with you_ permission, sir?

"She's in your hands.T

Tyrrell grinned. "Aye, aye, sir." To Buckle he calledB "Steerwest by north, full an' bye!T

Then he cupped his hands and yelled, "Pipe thd hands to th' braces!T

With the helm down and the seamen hauling at thO braces, Sparrow turned her bows towards the land? Voices called in the gloom, and above the decks thO paler shapes of arms and legs moved busily about thO yards?

"West by north, sir!" Buckle peered at the flappin^ sails as the ship heeled still further, close-hauled on thO starboard tack?

Tyrrell limped from side to side, his arm darting ouU to catch a man's attention, or his voice sending anothe_ to pass his orders right forward where Graves waY equally busy?

"Right, lads! Belay there!" He cocked his head as ib to listen to the chorus of shrouds and vibratin^ halliards. "She's loving it.T

Bolitho walked up to the weather side and felt thO cold spray across his face. Tyrrell had come and gonO through these capes many times in his father'Y schooner. Perhaps that memory, and the realisatio[ that his sister was now safe and close at hand, madO him forget the purpose of their mission, the chance ob danger with each passing minute?

"Breakers on the weather bow!" The lookouU sounded nervous?

But Tyrrell called, "Breakers be damned! That'll bO th' middle-ground." His teeth gleamed in the darkness? "True as a bloody arrow, if I do say so myself?T

Bolitho smiled at his excitement. Breakers bO damned! He had used much the same phrase anX tone when he had driven his sword through the ma[ who had almost killed him beside the pond?

The massive, looming shoulder of Cape Henra hardened from the darkness on the larboard beamB and for a brief instant Bolitho imagined they were toQ close, that the wind had thrust them further downwinX than Tyrrell had allowed?

He dragged his eyes to the opposite side, anX

through the spray and across the deep inshore swelT he saw a revolving patch of white. The middle-grounX was clearly marked by the swirl of broken water, but ib Tyrrell had misjudged his approach it would have bee[ too late to avoid it?

Tyrrell shouted, "Once saw a damn fine Dutchma[ aground there! She broke her back!T

Buckle muttered, "That's bloody encouraging!T

Bolitho peered astern. "I hope Heron's seen ou_ entrance.T

"She'll be fine." Tyrrell hurried to the side and studieX the darker wedge of land. "She draws less and iY better to handle close-hauled." He patted the rail. "BuU Sparrow'11 do for me!T

"Take in the forecourse, if you please." BolithQ pitched his ear to the sea's changing sounds. ThO hollow boom of surf against rocks, the deeper note ob water exploring a cave or some narrow gully below thO headland. "Then the spanker.T

Under topsails and jib Sparrow crept deeper into thO bay, her stem rising and plunging across tiderace anX swell alike, her helmsmen tensed at the wheel, fingerY

sensing her will almost as soon as she did?

Minutes dragged by, then an half-hour. With eyeY straining into the darkness, and other men poised aU gunport tackles and braces, the sloop tackeX delicately below the cape?

Then Tyrrell said, "No ships here, sir, Lynnhaven lieY abeam now. Any squadron at anchor, ours or th' FrogsB would be showing some sort of light. To deter a[ enemy, if for no other reason.T

"That makes good sense.T

Bolitho walked away to hide his disappointment? Odell had been right to ask for written orders, for ib Bolitho had misjudged Hood's whereabouts this badla he could be equally at fault for quitting his prope_ station in the south. A series of dull explosions echoeX across the water, and one bright stab of flame, as ib some powder had been accidentally fired?

He ran his fingers through his hair, wondering whaU he should do next. Sail on for New York? It seemed thO only solution?

Tyrrell said quietly, "If we are to beat clear of thd

cape, then I suggest we wear ship now." He paused? "Or anchor." Bolitho joined him by the compass. "The[ we anchor. We must make contact with the army. Thea at least should know what is happening.T

Tyrrell sighed. "It's hard to think that there's a dam[ great army out there across our bows. Poor bastards? If they are in Yorktown as Odell was led to believe, the[ they are well placed. But it'll be no comfort if they comO under siege.T

"Let's waste no more time." Bolitho beckoned tQ Fowler. "Show the lantern again. Captain Farr wilT anchor when he sees the signal.T

The topsails stirred noisily as Sparrow turneX obediently into the wind, her anchor throwing up Z sheet of spray like some disturbed water-spirit?

Buckle called, "Easy with that light, Mr. Fowler0 Enough!T

Tyrrell dropped his voice. "No matter. We'll havO been sighted from th' moment we weathered th' cape.T

Bolitho looked at him. It was not difficult to picturO some scurrying messenger or a mounted man ridin^ through the darkness to warn of their arrival. He felU

much as he had done in Delaware Bay. Cut off anX restricted, with only the vaguest idea of what waY happening?

Tyrrell said, "I can take a boat, sir. If th' army iY encamped in th' town, then they'll be well shieldeX around th' next spit of land along York River." HO sounded suddenly on edge. "God, this quiet disturbY me more'n gunfire! My grandfather was a soldier. UseX to make my flesh creep with his yarns of night fighting.T

Bolitho watched the topmen sliding down to thO deck, seemingly indifferent to the closeness of land o_ a possible enemy?

"Rig boarding nets and have half the twelve1 pounders loaded with grape.T

Tyrrell nodded. "Aye. An' I'll put some good hands o[ th' swivels, too. No sense in being rushed by somO crazy boat attack." He waited and then asked, "Shall ] go?T

"Very well. Take both cutters. Mr. Graves ca[ command the second one. Mr. Fowler will go with yof in case we need any signals made.T

A voice called, "Heron's anchored, sir!T

But when Bolitho looked across the nettings hO could see nothing. The lookout must have caught Z brief glimpse of her reefed topsails as she edgeX around the cape, or the splash of her anchor when shO let go?

Tackles creaked and jerked as both cutters werO swayed over the gangways before the decks werO sealed off in a web of nets. That could be left safely tQ the boatswain. Not too taut to afford a grip to somO daring boarder, just slack enough to confuse him, tQ allow a pike or bayonet to catch him before he coulX slip free?

Men shuffled across the deck, and he heard a[ occasional clink of steel, the thud of oars bein^ released from their lashings?

Graves came aft, his breeches white in thO darkness?

"You know what to do?" Bolitho looked at each i[ turn. "Mr. Tyrrell will lead. Muffle your oars, and watcN out for enemy pickets.T

Graves sounded breathless. "How will we recognisO

our own soldiers?T

Bolitho could imagine his mouth jerkin^ uncontrollably and was tempted to keep him on board? But Tyrrell was all important. He knew the lay of thO land like his own cabin. It needed an experienceX officer to back him if things went wrong?

He heard Tyrrell reply calmly, "Easy. Th' Frogs spea7 French!T

Graves swung round and then controlled himself witN an effort?

"I-I didn't ask for your sarcasm! It's all right for you? This is your country.T

"That will do!" Bolitho stepped closer. "RememberB our people are depending on you. So let's have nonO of this bickering.T

Tyrrell eased his sword in its sheath. "I'm sorry, sir. IU was my fault." He rested his hand on Graves'Y shoulder. "Forget I spoke, eh?T

Fowler's voice came up from the boats. "All readyB sir!T

Bolitho walked to the gangway. "Be back by dawn.T He touched Tyrrell's arm. "How is the pain now?T

"Hardly feel a thing, sir." Tyrrell stood back to allo/ his men to clamber into the cutters. "A bit of exercisO will do me good.T

The boats shoved off and pulled steadily into thO darkness. Within minutes they had vanished, and Z watchful silence settled over those who stood at thO loaded guns on either beam?

Bolitho sought out Stockdale and said, "Have thO gig lowered. I may want word carried to Heron." HO saw Bethune's plump outline by the rail and addedB "You take the gig and pull round the ship. I will signal if ] need a message passed.T

Bethune hesitated. "I would have willingly gone witN the first lieutenant, sir.T

"I know that." It was hard to believe that in the midsU of all this confusion Bethune had managed to see hiY choice of Fowler as a personal slur. "He is very young. ] need all the men I can get to manage the ship." It was Z lame explanation, but it seemed to suffice?

It was cool under the stars, and after the heat of thO

day, a gentle relief. Bolitho kept the seamen in shorU watches, so that those not on lookout or standing at thO guns might snatch a few moments' rest?

Likewise, the officers stood watch and watch, anX when he was relieved by Heyward, Bolitho squatteX against the mainmast trunk and rested his head in hiY hands?

He felt someone gripping his wrist and knew hO must have fallen asleep?

Heyward was crouching beside him, his voice Z fierce whisper. "Boat approaching, sir, maybe two.T

Bolitho scrambled to his feet, his mind grapplin^ with Heyward's words. Surely they were not returnin^ already. They could not even have reached the first parU of their destination?

Heyward said, "It's not the gig. She's away on thO starboard quarter.T

Bolitho cupped his hands round his ears. Above thO slap of water alongside he heard oars and the squea7 of a tiller?

A boatswain's mate asked, "Shall I call a challengeB

sir?T

"No." Why had he said that? "Not yet.T

He strained his eyes and tried to pick out the splasN of oars amidst the lapping cat's-paws of the bay. It haX to be Tyrrell returning for he was coming straight for thO ship without caution or hesitation?

A thin shaft of moonlight had made a small ripplin^ pattern across the water, and as he watched Z longboat glided into it, the oars moving unhurriedly?

Before it slid once more into shadows Bolitho sa/ the gleam of crossbelts, some soldiers wearin^ shakos crowded in the sternsheets?

Heyward gasped hoarsely, "Holy God, they'rO French!T

The boatswain's mate whispered, "There's anothe_ one astern of 'er!T

Thoughts and wild ideas flooded through Bolitho'Y mind as he watched the boats' slow approach. TyrrelT and his men captured and being returned for parley? The French coming to announce that Yorktown waY theirs and to demand Sparrow's surrender?

He moved quickly to the gangway and cupped hiY hands. "Obi! A canot.! Qui val la?T

There was a babble of voices from the boat and hO heard someone laughing?

To Heyward he snapped, "Quick, recall the gig! We'lT catch these beauties with any luck!T

The first boat was already grinding alongside, anX Bolitho held his breath, half expecting one of his ow[ men to fire?

From a corner of his eye he saw a cream of sprayB and thanked God that the gig's crew had kept thei_ wits. It was sweeping around the stern, and he coulX imagine Stockdale willing his men to pull with all thei_ strength?

Heyward came back, the signal lantern still in hiY hand?

Bolitho shouted, "Now!T

Even as the first men appeared on the chains anX clung uncertainly to the nets, a line of armed seame[ leapt on to the gangway with levelled muskets, whilO

Glass, the boatswain, swung a swivel gun and traineX it threateningly?

There was a chorus of shouts and a musket stabbeX fire through the night. The ball slammed into the raiT and brought a savage fusilade of shots from Heyward'Y marksmen?

Glass depressed the swivel and jerked the lanyardB changing the crowded boat into a screaming, blooda shambles?

It was more than enough for the second boat. ThO crash of musket fire, the devastating hail of caniste_ from Glass's swivel were sufficient to render the oarY motionless. Hardly a man moved as the gig torO alongside and made fast, and across the choppy wate_ Stockdale bawled, "Got 'er, sir!" A pause and he calleX again, "There's a dozen English prisoners in this 'un!T

Bolitho turned away, feeling sick. He saw DalkeitN and his mates climbing down to the boat alongsidO and pictured the whimpering carnage he would finX there. It could just as easily have been the seconX boat, and the canister would have carved its blooda path amongst their own people?

He said harshly, "Get those men aboard, Mr? Heyward. Then send the gig to Heron. Farr will bO wondering what the hell we are about.T

He waited beside the entry port, as with boardin^ nets lifted the first dazed men were pushed or hauleX aboard. The second boatload, French and EnglisN alike, came with obvious relief. The French glad tQ have been spared their companions' slaughter. ThO English redcoats had different reasons, but thei_ stunned disbelief was pitiful to watch?

Bedraggled and filthy, they were more likO scarecrows than trained soldiers?

Bolitho said, "Take the prisoners below, Mr. Glass.T To the redcoats he added, "Have no fear. This is Z King's ship.T

One, a young ensign, stepped forward anX exclaimed, "I thank you, Captain. We all do.T

Bolitho gripped his hand. "You will get all the rest anX help I can offer. But first I must know what is happenin^ here.T

The officer rubbed his eyes with his knuckles. "WO were taken several days back. It was a skirmish witN

one of their patrols. Most of my men were killed." HO rocked on his feet. "I still cannot believe we are saveX ...T

Bolitho persisted, "Is General Cornwallis holdin^ Yorktown?T

"Yes. But as I expect you know, sir, Washington anX the French general, Rochambeau, crossed the Hudso[ some weeks back to the head of Chesapeake Bay? They have a great army massed around Yorktown. E musket behind every tree. But when we heard that a[ English squadron had looked into the bay we thoughU we were relieved. I understand a little French anX heard the guards speaking of their arrival.T

Heyward said, "Hood's ships.T

Bolitho nodded. "When was this?T

The ensign shrugged. "Three days back. I have losU count of time.T

Bolitho tried to shut out the pitiful cries alongside. HO knew little French. Little more than he had used tQ deceive the boat, but sufficient to recognise pleading? A man being held while Dalkeith got busy with hiY

knife?

Three days back. That fitted what Odell haX reported. Hood must have taken a quick look into thO bay, and finding no sign of de Grasse had pushed o[ for New York?

The ensign added weakly, "The French arO expecting their own fleet. That was why, whe[ someone hailed them in their own language, they ...T

"What?" Bolitho seized his arm, his voice harsN despite the man's condition. "Expecting their ow[ fleet?T

The ensign stared at him. "But I thought I imagineX our ships had gone to fight them off, sir!T

"No." He released his arm. "I fear that when thea reach New York and discover their mistake it will bO too late.T

"Then the army is done for, sir." The ensign walkeX unsteadily to the rail. "All this." He shouted across thO dark water. "All for bloody nothing!T

Dalkeith appeared on deck and with a brief nod too7 the officer's arm?

Bolitho said, "Take care of them for me.T

He turned away. They would be prisoners again vera soon unless he could decide what to do?

Buckle was watching him anxiously. "What about Mr? Tyrrell, sir?T

"D'you imagine I've not thought about him?" He sa/ Buckle recoil. "We will pass the word to Hero[ immediately. If she can work clear tonight Farr musU carry the news to Admiral Graves. There might still bO time." He saw the purser hovering by the hatch. "FetcN some paper and I will write a note for Farr.T

To Buckle he added, "I'm sorry I abused you. It was Z fair question.T

He looked towards the land. "We will weigh at firsU light and move closer inshore. Have the sweeps reada in case the wind loses us. I'll not throw Tyrrell and hiY men away without a fight." He remembered thO lieutenant's words in that far off garden. In Sparrow wO look after our own. He added quietly, "We've all comO too far together for that.T

Dalkeith crossed the deck as Bolitho walked to thO

taffrail. To Buckle he whispered, "What's the captai[ going to do?T

Buckle shrugged. "Something crazy, I expect.T

The surgeon wiped his hands on a piece of waste? "But you approve, nonetheless?T

Buckle grinned. "Don't make much difference what ] think, does it? But I s'pect he'll think of something." HO added vehemently, "I bloody well hope so, for all ou_ sakes!T

18 ONLY THE BRAVY

STOCKDALE padded across the quarterdeck anX held out a pewter mug?

"'Ere, sir. Some coffee.T

Bolitho took it and held it to his lips. It was barely hotB but cleared the dryness from his throat?

Stockdale added thickly, "The galley fire waY doused, so I 'ad to warm it on a lantern in the shoU locker.T

Bolitho looked at him. Was it imagination, or werO Stockdale's features growing more distinct in thO gloom? He shivered. More likely he had been too lon^ on deck, waiting and wondering. Yet he could do nQ good by pacing the deck and going over his ideaY again and again?

"It was a kind thought." He handed him the mug. "] feel awake now?

He peered up at the rigging and furled sails. ThO stars were still there, but paler. That was no illusion?

"Where is the wind?T

Stockdale considered the question. "As afore, sir? Nor' nor'east, if I'm not mistook.T

Bolitho bit his lip. He had already decided it was so? Stockdale was usually right, but his confirmation diX little to help?

He said, "Rouse the master. He is by the hatchway.T

Buckle sprang to his feet, wide awake aU Stockdale's first touch?

"What is it? An attack?T

"Easy, Mr. Buckle." Bolitho beckoned him to the rail? "The wind has dropped, but still too far north'rd to helS us.T

The master said nothing and waited to see what thO captain had in mind?

"If we are to be of any use, we must drive higher intQ the bay. It would take hours of tacking back and forthB with little to show for our pains. But if we stay here aU anchor we can help neither the first lieutenant no_ ourselves if an enemy arrives.T

Buckle yawned. "That's true enough.T

"So call all hands and run out the sweeps. We wilT get under way and not wait for the dawn.T

Buckle pulled out his watch and held it against thO compass light?

"Hmm. It'll be a hard pull, sir. But the current will noU be too much against us.T

He walked to the nettings and kicked a shadowa figure who was sleeping soundly on the bare planks?

"Up, boy! Tell Mr. Glass to call the hands. Jump to it!T

Bolitho went quickly to his cabin and concentrateX for several minutes on his chart. Recalling what TyrrelT had told him, and adding the information to what hO knew already, he settled on his plan of action. BeyonX the cabin he could hear the tramp of feet at thO capstan, the regular clink of a pawl as the cable camO inbcard?

He put on his coat and adjusted his swordbelt. Ho/ strange the cabin looked in the solitary lantern's light? Cleared for action like the rest of his ship, the gunY creaking gently behind their sealed ports, powder anX shot, rammers and sponges, all within easy reach. BuU no one stood near them, for like the remainder of thO gun deck, every hand would be needed to raise ancho_ and man the long sweeps. The latter had got them ouU of trouble before. This time they might do the same fo_ Tyrrell and his men?

He left the cabin and ran swiftly up the ladder?

It was lighter. There could be no doubt about it. E sort of greyness above Cape Henry, and he could seO the swirl of currents well clear of the hull?

He saw the long sweeps swaying above the wate_ on either beam, the men hunched around themB chattering quietly while they awaited an order from aft?

Heyward touched his hat. "Anchor's hove short, sir.T He sounded tense and very alert?

Bolitho strode from side to side, watching the ship'Y swing towards the shore, the ripple of water below thO gangways?

"How does it feel? From midshipman to firsU lieutenant with barely a pause?T

He did not hear Heyward's reply, and knew he haX only asked the question to cover his own anxiety. If thO men lost control of the sweeps he would have tQ anchor immediately. Even then he might be driven toQ close inshore for comfort?

From forward he heard Bethune's cry, "Anchor'Y aweigh, sir!" The patter of feet as men ran from thO capstan bars to add their weight on the sweeps?

Then Glass's voice, "Steady! Standby!T

Bolitho gripped his hands together until the fingerY almost cracked. Why the hell was he leaving it so lateU

In a moment the ship would be aground?

"Give way all!T

The sweeps swayed forward, dipped and then camO steadily aft?

Behind him Bolitho heard the wheel easing gentlyB and Buckle's quiet cursing as he endured the tensio[ in his own style. He tried to relax his muscles. GlasY had been right to make sure of that first stroke. But iU was one thing to know it, another to remain aloof in thO face of danger to his ship?

Up and down, forward to aft, the sweeps creakeX busily but without undue haste, until Buckle calledB "Steerage way, sir!T

"Good. Hold her due north, if you please.T

Heyward removed his coat. "I'll go and lend a handB sir.T

"Yes. Make sure we have every available ma[ working. Those redcoats as well, if they have thO strength." He checked him as he ran for the ladder? "There is no need to tell the soldiers we are headin^ towards the enemy, Mr. Heyward!" He saw him grin?

"They'll find out soon enough.T

Buckle and a solitary seaman stood at the wheelB and Bolitho walked right aft to the taffrail withouU speaking. He saw the nearest cape more clearly nowB the pattern of white-caps at its base to mark somO small cove. An empty place. When daylight came, anX Heron was seen to be gone, his men might questio[ his action, and rightly. But if their presence was to be ob any use to the admiral, then they must learn everythin^ possible. The released soldiers had told them much? But a lot could have changed since they had bee[ taken. He smiled grimly. He was deluding himself. BuU for Tyrrell and the others, would he really havO remained here in the bayU

He heard shouts on deck and someone speaking i[ French. Heyward was more than a good companionB he was proving to be an excellent officer. WithouU further consultation, and at the risk of his captain'Y displeasure, he had released the French prisoners anX put them to work. All strong, beefy soldiers who had leX a fairly comfortable life guarding prisoners, they woulX make a small but significant difference to the heava sweeps?

Some gulls rose screaming angrily from the wate_

where they had been sleeping as the Sparrow moveX amongst them at a slow but steady crawl. TimO dragged by, and Bolitho saw that the soldiers' coatY were red again instead of black as they had appeareX in the darkness. Faces regained personality, and hO was able to see those who were standing the strai[ and others who were being relieved at more frequenU intervals to regain their breath?

A blacker shadow loomed and held firm across thO starboard bow. That must be the inner side of CapO Charles, he decided, with Tyrell's middle-ground somO distance below it?

"Bring her up a point, Mr. Buckle." He heard the helR squeak. "We must pass the cape with the mainland tQ larboard. There'll not be too much water in the channelB so hold her steady.T

"Aye, sir. Nor' by east it is!T

The ship was heading almost directly into the windB and he could feel it on his face, smell the land and itY freshness in the dawn air. But it was more shelteredB and he was relieved to see the sweeps were stilT moving in unison, although the actual progress waY probably less than a knot?

He sought out the young ensign and called him aft? He arrived panting on the quarterdeck, and BolithQ said, "Look abeam. How near are your outposts?T

The soldier peered across the larboard nettings anX raised one arm?

"That bit of land, sir. That'll he the turning point. A loU of sand there. We lost some barges a few weeks bac7 when they ran ashore. A mile or so further and you'll bO able to see the mouth of York River just beyond a pai_ of small islands.T

Bolitho smiled. "I expect you're surprised we'rO heading this way.T

The ensign shrugged. "I am past surprise, sir." HO stiffened. "I heard a bugle. That'll be our lads." HO tapped the rail with his fingers, his face engrossed? Then there was a long-drawn-out trumpet call, whicN sent a cloud of gulls flapping and squeaking from thO land. He said, "The Frogs. Always a minute behind ou_ reveille.T

Bolitho tried to break him from his mood. "What ob the Americans?T

The ensign sighed. "They have artillery over the river? They'll start firing at first light. More effective than ana damn bugle!T

Bolitho turned towards Buckle. "We will keep on thiY course as long as our people have strength for it. ThO wind will favour us when we finally go about, but I wanU to get as far above York River as I can.T

He looked aloft and saw the masthead pendant fo_ the first time. It was flapping gently astern, but showeX no warning of a strengthening wind. If it got up now, hiY men would be unable to hold the stroke. Even witN Tyrrell's boat crews it would have been hard. WithouU them, impossible?

When he glanced abeam he saw the overhangin^ spur of Cape Charles, and far beyond it, like a thi[ gold thread, the horizon. Showing its face to the su[ which was easing into view, parting sea from sky, nighU from day?

There was a muffled bang, and seconds later hO saw the telltale white fin of spray to mark where a balT had ploughed into the bay?

The ensign remarked indifferently, "They'll neve_

reach you at this range. You've a good half a mile tQ play with.T

"Where is the battery?T

The soldier studied him curiously. "Everywhere, sir? There are guns right round this sector. Yorktown and itY approaches are hemmed in a ring of iron. Our arma has the sea at its back." He suddenly looked vera young and vulnerable. "Only the fleet can bring reliefT

Bolitho pictured Farr's Heron making all hastO towards New York. Even there he might find HooX gone, perhaps further still to Newport to contain dO Barras?

He thought, too, of Odell's solitary vigil in his Lucifer? If the French did come by way of the little-useX Bahama Channel, he would need no encouragemenU to make sail and run?

He blinked as a shaft of sunlight played across thO distant cape and coloured the yards and stays likO honey. He pulled out his watch. Tyrrell should havO made his contact with Cornwallis's pickets and be o[ his way back to Lynnhaven by now. By weighing anX putting the men to the sweeps, their meeting shoulX

have been brought forward by an hour at least?

Glass ran up the ladder, his chest heaving froR exertion?

"Can't hold 'em much longer, sir!" He peered dow[ at the sweeps, at their sluggish rise and fall. "Shall I puU the rope's end to 'em, sir?T

"You will not." Bolitho looked away. There was nQ malice in Glass, nor was he prone to unnecessara force. It was just that he did not know what else to do? "Tell them. Another half hour. Then we make sail, o_ anchor.T

Glass shifted awkwardly. "It'd be better from you, sir.T

Bolitho walked to the rail and called, "One more tur[ of the glass, lads!" He heard groans, the mingleX curses and gasps from those still hidden in shadow? "It's that or leave our people out there to fend fo_ themselves! Remember, it might have been you!T

He turned away, not knowing if his words haX achieved anything but resentment?

Glass watched critically and then spat on his hands? "That done it, sir! Better already!T

Bolitho sighed. The stroke looked as weary aY before, but if the boatswain was satisfied, then ..? He swung round as a voice called, "Boat, sir! FinO on the larboard bow!T Bolitho gripped the rail. "Just the one?T "Aye, sir.T "Bring her round two points to larboard.T

Bolitho tried not to think about the missing boat. HO felt the hull yaw, the stroke failing as the helm wenU over?

The soldier said quietly, "No closer, I pray you. You'lT be in cannon-shot before long.T Bolitho ignored him. "Pull, lads! Come on, do you_ damndest!T One man fell exhausted from a loom and waY dragged away by Dalkeith? The lookout yelled, "It's the second cutter, sir! Mr? Graves!T

Dalkeith heaved himself up the ladder and stood aU the rail?

"I know what you're thinking, sir." He did not flincN under Bolitho's cold stare. "He'd not leave you. Not fo_ anything.T

Bolitho looked past his shoulder at a patch of land. I[ the strengthening light he saw tall trees and a round hilT beyond. They were motionless. The sweeps were onla keeping Sparrow steady against wind and current. In Z minute she would start to pay-off and drift inshore. Thea had done their best. It was not enough?

He snapped, "Damn your eyes, Mr. Dalkeith! I'll noU be lectured by you!T

He leaned over the rail. "Mr. Heyward! Stand by tQ let go the anchor!T

Bolitho waited while men ran to the call and GlasY sent others to bear down on the flagging sweepY where exhausted sailors had fallen to the deck. HO heard a bang and saw a ball ricochet across the wate_ to throw up a plume of spray very close to thO approaching cutter. The boat was moving rapidla towards him, and he could see Graves by the tiller, hiY

hat awry as he beat out the time to his oarsmen?

"Ready, sir!T

He chopped with his arm. "Let go!T

Even as the anchor took grip and the bull swun^ carelessly to the cable, he yelled, "Withdraw sweeps0 Mr. Glass, get those men on their feet!T

Dalkeith stood his ground. "You can't blame yourselfB sir." He met Bolitho's gaze stubbornly. "Curse me if yof will, but I'll not stand by and see you torment yourself.T

The cutter was hooking on to the main chains, anX he heard Graves shouting at the men on deck to makO fast his lines?

He said quietly, "Thank you for your concern. BuU there is no one else to blame.T

He made himself wait by the rail until Graves haX scrabbled aboard, and then called sharply, "Lay aft, ib you please! The boatswain can deal with the cutter.T

Graves hurried towards him, his face twitchin^ violently?

Bolitho asked, "Where are the others?" He kept hiY voice very calm, but was conscious of his whole bein^ screaming at Graves's stricken face?

"We grounded in some shallows, sir. Both boatY separated. It was the first lieutenant's idea. A patrol ob soldiers had signalled where we should secure thO boats, but there was some shooting. Enema marksmen, I believe.T

"And then?" He could feel others standing nearbyB see Heyward's frozen expression as he listened tQ Graves's quick, erratic account?

"In the darkness we were all trying to take cover. ] lost a man, and Tyrrell sent word for us to stay hidde[ in a creek." He shook his head vaguely. "The ballY were flying everywhere. Tyrrell was going to meet onO of the officers. They knew we were coming, apparently? Their scouts had seen us." His mouth jerkeX uncontrollably. "We stayed there waiting, and the[ there was more firing, and I heard men chargin^ through the brush, there must have been a platoon o_ more!T

"Did you not think of going to assist Mr. Tyrrell?T

Graves stared at him, his eyes blank. "We were i[ mortal danger! I sent Fowler to find the others, but ...T

"You did what?" Bolitho reached out and gripped hiY coat. "You sent that boy on his own?T

"He-he volunteered, sir." Graves looked down aU Bolitho's hand on his coat. "When he failed to return ] decided to"-he raised his eyes, suddenly composed1 "to obey your orders and withdraw to the ship.T

Bolitho released his hold and turned away. He felU sick and appalled with what Graves had done. ThO lieutenant's pathetic defiance made it worse, if thaU were possible. He had obeyed orders. So his crimO was acceptable?

A puff of smoke rose above the nearest spit of landB and he saw the ball drop within half a cable of the ship? Even now, some officer might be ordering up a heavie_ gun. One which would make short work of sQ promising a target?

He heard himself say, "Tell Mr. Yule to run out thO larboard bow-chaser and lay it on that gunsmoke. HO will fire with grape until I order otherwise. It might cooT their eagerness.T

He walked past Graves without a glance?

"Have the cutter manned at once." He looked dow[ at the silent seamen on the gun deck. "I wanU volunteers for . . ." He swallowed as the assembleX men moved towards the side as if drawn by wires? "Thank you. But just a boat's crew. Mr. Glass, see to iU at once!T

To Heyward he added, "You will remain here." He diX not look at Graves. "If I fall, you will assist the master i[ getting the ship under way, understood?T

Heyward nodded, his eyes filling his face?

Dalkeith touched his arm. "Look, sir!T

It was the other cutter, or what was left of it. Even i[ the poor light it was possible to see the splintereX gunwale, the few remain ing oars which moved it sQ very slowly on the uneasy water?

There was a bang and another waterspout shoU skyward just beyond it. The hidden gun had shifted to Z smaller but closer target?

Bolitho flinched as Yule's crew fired their first shoU from forward, saw the trees quiver as if in a freak gusU

as the packed grape scythed towards the driftin^ smoke?

"A glass!T

He hardly dared to raise it to his eye. Then he sa/ the cutter, the scars in its side left by musket balls, thO lolling corpses still propped between the remainin^ oarsmen. Then he saw Tyrrell. He was sitting on thO gunwale right aft, someone draped across his kneeY as he steered the boat past the white patch left by thO enemy's ball?

He said quietly, "Thank God.T

The bow-chaser hurled itself inboard againB dragging him from his thoughts, his overwhelmin^ relief?

He shouted, "Mr. Bethune, take the cutter and assisU Mr. Tyrrell!" He looked for Buckle. "Get the hands alofU and prepare to loose tops'ls!T

All exhaustion and dread at Graves's report seemeX to be fading as men tore to their stations. The cutte_ was pulling from the side, Bethune standing upright aY he urged his crew to greater efforts?

Dalkeith said, "Well, sir . . ." He got no further?

One of the topmen who had reached the uppermosU yard before his companions yelled, "Deck there! SaiT comin' around th' 'eadland!T

Bolitho snatched a glass and trained it above thO nettings. She was standing well out from the bay, buU was already tacking frantically towards Cape Henry. IU was the Lucifer?

Odell would be shocked to find no fleet, nor eve[ Heron at anchor. He tensed. There was damage to thO schooner's mizzen, and she was handling sluggishly aY she tried to beat closer to the entrance. She must havO been caught unprepared by another ship, perhapY under cover of darkness. There was no mistaking thO flapping rents in her great foresail, the uneven spreaX of rigging?

He saw flags breaking to the wind, and held thO glass motionless while his lips spelled out the brieb signal?

He turned to Buckle. "Enemy in sight.T

"God A'mightyT

"Mr. Heyward!" He saw him swing round from thO capstan?

"Stand by to cut the cable! We will not recover thO boats, but make sail as soon as our people arO aboard!T

He heard a chorus of shouts, and when he turned afU he saw Lucifer folding her great sails like the wings ob a dying bird. She must have risked everything to reacN him with her news, even to make that one vital signal? She had driven too close and had struck the shoalY which Tyrrell had described so vividly?

He made himself walk to the rail and look for thO boats. Tyrrell's cutter was almost awash, but BethunO was there, and he saw the wounded being hauleX across, a patch of scarlet to mark at least one soldie_ in the party?

Several more guns were firing now, and balls thre/ up tall splashes in the pale sunlight like a line ob leaping dolphins?

Some of the topmen gave a ragged cheer aY Bethune cast the waterlogged cutter adrift and headeX back towards Sparrow?

Bolitho turned towards Graves who was standin^ much as before. "Take charge of your guns." He kepU his voice formal without understanding why or how. HO could picture Lucifer's frail hull breaking up on thO rocks and Tyrrell's shattered boat trying to reacN Sparrow. He could even see young Fowler, a merO child, running through some unknown woods whilO shots shrieked all about him. "Do your duty. That is all ] ask of you." He looked away. "All I will ever ask of yof again.T

He heard the boat grind alongside and saw TyrrelT and the others being dragged through the entry portB being clapped on the shoulders and bombarded witN questions and cheers?

Bolitho strode towards him and saw with sudde[ despair that Tyrrell was carrying Midshipman Fowler. IU must have been his body across his legs in the boat?

Tyrrell looked at him steadily and gave a tired grin? "He's all right, sir. He was crying fit to break his heartB an' then fell asleep in th' boat." He handed thO midshipman to some seamen. "Worn out, poor littlO bugger." He saw Graves and added flatly, "But he's goU guts. Plenty of 'em." Then he strode forward anX gripped Bolitho's hands. "He's not th' only one, iU

seems.T

A new voice drawled, "'Pon my word, I knew we'X meet again!T

It was Colonel Foley. A bandage round his throat, hiY uniform in tatters, but somehow remaining aY impeccable as Bolitho remembered him?

Bolitho said, "I, too." He looked at Tyrrell. "We are i[ for some warm work today, I fear. Lucifer's done forB and we must leave quickly if we are to avoid her fate.T

"Aye." Tyrrell limped towards the wheel. "I'd guesseX as much.T

A cry from aloft brought every eye towards thO headland. Very slowly, their yards braced round in thO sunlight, a frigate and a deep-hulled transport werO passing level with the wrecked schooner?

Bolitho said simply, "Sooner than I thought." HO looked at Heyward. "We will cut the cable." To Tyrell hO added, "Then you may pass the word to load and ru[ out.T

The cutter and its dead oarsmen drifted away froR the side, a discarded reminder of their sacrifice?

Bethune hurried aft, his face glowing witN excitement?

Bolitho said, "Well done. I'll see you a lieutenant yetB despite what you do to the contrary.T

He felt suddenly composed, even relaxed. "Run uS the colours! We'll show the army we're not leaving theR to no purpose!T

The cable cut, and with her topsails bellying to thO wind, Sparrow tilted round in a tight arc, the thunder ob her canvas drowning the gunfire from the trees, he_ seamen too busy even to think beyond their work anX the need to reach the open sea?

By the time Sparrow had gone about and settled o[ her course towards the capes, there could be no doubU in anyone's mind as to the enemy's intentions. Even aY Tyrrell reported all guns loaded and run out, BolithQ raised his glass to examine yet another ship as shO rounded the southern headland. One more heava transport, and beyond her he could see the billowin^ topsails of a protective frigate?

Tyrrell said, "God's teeth, a fleet and nothing less!T

Buckle called, "Steady as she goes, sir! Sou' ba west!T

The first transport had already dropped anchor, anX through his glass Bolitho saw her boats being lowereX with swift precision, the glint of sunlight on weaponY and uniforms as soldiers clambered down ladders anX nets in a manner which spoke of much practice. HO shifted his glass to the second large vessel. She, tooB was crammed with soldiers, and there were limbers o[ her upper deck, and her yards were festooned witN heavy tackles, the kind used for lowering horses intQ boats or lighters?

Colonel Foley drawled, "We heard Rochambeaf was expecting reinforcements. It would appear thea have arrived.T

Bolitho glanced at him. "What is your mission now?T

"If you can get me to New York I have despatches fo_ General Clinton. They may not help Cornwallis, but hO will be glad to know what is happening here." He gavO a brief smile. "I heard that you dealt severely with ou_ old friend Blundell? Not before time." He raised onO eyebrow. "You met his niece again, I understand?T

Bolitho watched the jib-boom swing very slightly anX settle on the outthrust wedge of headland. How coulX they speak so calmly and detachedly when death laa so close at handU

He replied, "Yes. She will be in England now.T

Foley gave a sigh. "I am relieved. I recognise all thO signs, Captain. She wanted you to quit the Service anX join her train of admirers, eh?" He held up one hand? "Do not bother to reply! It is plain on your face, as iU must have been on mine.T

Bolitho smiled gravely. "Something of the sort.T

"When she tired of me I was sent to serve unde_ Cornwallis. A favour as it turned out. And you?T

Tyrrell stepped back from the rail. "She almost haX him killed!T

Foley shook his head. "A formidable woma[ indeed.T

"Deck there! Ship-o'-the-line roundin' the cape!T

Bolitho felt a chill on his spine as he thought ob Odell's dash from the south. Day by day and at eacN

dawn he would look astern at the pursuing ships. IU must have been a nightmare for every man aboard?

The boats from the two transports were pullin^ towards the land now, and he could see the hulls deeS in the water as testimony of the numbers they carried?

"Set the t'gallants, Mr. Tyrrell. We will need all ou_ wind today.T

Foley drew his sabre and turned it over in his hands? "You are not merely running away, I take it?T

Bolitho shook his head. "Those two frigates arO shortening sail, Colonel. They intend to rake us whe[ we attempt to clear the middle-ground." He pointeX towards the anchored transports. "There is our course? Close inshore, where we'll be least expected.T

Foley grimaced. "Or welcome, I suspect.T

Bolitho looked at Buckle. "When we go about yof must lay her as close as you can to Cape Henry.T

"Aye, sir." Buckle was peering through shrouds anX stays, his eyes fixed on the ships?

Bolitho raised his glass again. The two frigates werO

under minimum canvas standing before the wind witN some difficulty as they waited for the small sloop tQ dash past them. Less than a mile now. He watcheX them narrowly, noting their drift, the sun gleaming o[ their broadsides and on the raised telescopes of thei_ officers?

He snapped, "How many boats in the water?T

Bethune called, "At least thirty!T

"Good.T

Bolitho imagined the packed soldiers who would bO watching Sparrow's apparent dash for safety. E spectacle to drive away their own doubts and fears ob what lay ahead on the American mainland?

Bolitho drew his hanger and held it above his head? Along the gun deck he saw the crews crouching at thO tackles, each captain peering aft, a slow-match helX ready. In the maintop two swivels were training this waa and that, a seaman squatting on the barricade witN fresh canister cradled to his chest. Curiously, as he ra[ his eyes quickly over his command, he was remindeX of Colquhoun's words so long ago. When all others arO looking aft at you?

He heard a sharp bang, and seconds later thO highpitched whine of a ball whipping overhead. One ob the frigates had fired a ranging shot. But he kept hiY eyes on the nearest transport as she swung to he_ cable, her high poop towards the beach. Aboard thO frigates the gun crews would be betting with eacN other. How many balls would they get off before thO Sparrow was overwhelmed by their cross-fire or shO struck her coloursU

He brought down his hanger with a flourish. "Now!T

The wheel creaked noisily, and as men hauled at thO braces to retrim the yards, Sparrow's stem began tQ turn. Bolitho held his breath, watching the frigateY slipping further and further down the larboard bowB while the nearest transport and then the great spreaX of oared boats swam across the jib-boom, and beyonX them the land opened up as if to receive thei_ onrushing charge?

"Hold her!T

Bolitho ran to the nettings, his mind hanging on tQ Tyrrell's words of Lynnhaven Bay, the depths anX currents, the dangers and margin of survival?

Buckle's helmsmen cursed and spun the wheeT against the opposite thrust of wind and sea, and aY spray leapt above the beakhead Bolitho saw thO nearest boats careering off course, the realisation anX horror of his intentions at last only too clear?

Gunfire thudded across the bay, and ballY whimpered and splashed very near to the hull. But thO two frigates had been taken by surprise, and aY Sparrow lunged towards the shore, Bolitho knew thaU within minutes she would be screened from their fire ba the first transport?

He could feel the madness surging through him likO fever, and as he yelled down at the gun deck he knew iU was infectious, saw the men poised at their open portY like half-naked demons?

"Stand by!" The hanger was above his head again? "Full depression!T

He saw the nearest muzzles dipping towards thO creaming water, the gun captains dancing from side tQ side while their men stood ready with charges anX fresh shot for the next barrage, and the one after that?

"As you bear!" The hanger hovered, holding thO

fresh sunlight like gold. "Fire!T

The air was blasted apart by the ragged broadsideY from either beam. As the dense smoke swirleX inboard, and the gun crews yelled and cheered abovO the squeak of trucks, the clatter of handspikes anX rammers, Bolitho saw the next spitting tongues froR forward, the double shotted charges smashing intQ boats and soldiers, the whirl of splinters and spray? Above the decks the braced topsails quivered to eacN explosion, the smoke fanning out on either side in Z choking fog while the guns roared out again and again?

Sharper cracks from muskets, the metallic bangs ob swivels, made words impossible. It was a nightmare, Z world in torment. Boats lurched into the hull and BolithQ felt the deck shake as Sparrow's stem smashed into Z launch, breaking it in two and spilling out thO overloaded soldiers in a kicking, screaming profusion?

A transport was firing now, her upper tier cutting ove_ the scattered boats and slapping through Sparrow'Y canvas like great fists?

A ball burst through the nettings, and Bolitho hearX shrill screams as two seamen were pulped against thO opposite side. He saw Fowler walking dazedly pasU

the dismembered corpses, his face set as if in deeS thought. He noticed that he was snapping his fingers?

The hull gave another great lurch, and below his feeU he felt the enemy's iron smashing through the gu[ deck, the attendant rumble of a twelve-pounder bein^ overturned?

Another longboat lurched down the starboard sideB some men firing with their muskets, others scramblin^ over the frantic sailors at the oars. Balls thudded intQ the rail and bulwark, and a seaman fell choking o[ blood as one took him in the throat?

Bolitho ran to the side and wiped his streaming eyeY to peer astern. The surface was littered with smasheX boats and drifting woodwork. Men, too, somO swimming, others fading beneath the water under thei_ weight of weapons and equipment?

Foley was reloading a musket and shouting, "A fe/ less for our boys to fight!" He leaned over the nettingY and shot down a soldier even as he stood to fire at thO sloop?

Bolitho strained his eyes towards the shore. It waY near enough. Almost too close?

"Bring her about!" He had to repeat the order beforO Buckle understood?

With blocks screaming and her yards braced rounX once more, Sparrow heeled dangerously on thO larboard tack, her bows seemingly pointed straight aU the land?

And there was the second transport, swingin^ drunkenly across the bow, her gun-ports alreada flashing and tearing the air apart with shot?

A ball ripped through the quarterdeck rail, splitting iU apart like matchwood, and cutting down a master'Y mate who was yelling to the hands at the mizze[ braces. Blood splashed across Bolitho's breechesB and he saw other men falling on the gun deck, thO protective nets above it jerking with fallen cordage anX torn canvas?

A quick glance aloft told him the masthead pendanU was streaming almost abeam. They were as close tQ the wind as they could be. Enough or too little made nQ difference now. There was no room to go about, no_ time to change tack?

Tyrrell yelled, "Rake that bastard's poop!" HO

gestured to the nearest gun captains. "Grape! Brin^ them down!T

He stared at Bolitho, his eyes glazed with fatigueB the fury of battle?

"She's coming round!" He caught a seaman as hO dropped from the nettings, his face a mask of blood? "Another for th' surgeon!" He turned to Bolitho agai[ and then gave a short cry, his hands to his thigh as hO fell?

Bolitho knelt beside him, holding his shoulders aY more balls blasted splinters from the deck. TyrrelT stared up at him, his eyes dark with pain?

"'S'all right." He gritted his teeth. "It's th' same blooda leg!T

Bolitho saw Dalkeith stooping and running acrosY the deck, some of his men at his back?

Tyrrell added weakly, "I knew it had to come off. No/ there's no excuse, eh?" Then he fainted?

From the littered gun deck Graves watched him fallB although his mind was cringing to the noise and thO stench of death?

He screamed, "Run out!" He thrust at a wild-eyeX seaman. "Point! Ready!" He stared fixedly at thO towering sails of the transport as it rose ponderousla abeam. "Fire!T

The deck lurched beneath his feet, and he saw twQ men blasted into crimson fragments, their screams cuU short before they reached the stained planking. BuU somewhere in his reeling mind he was thinkin^ ofTyrrell. He must be dead, God rot him. His siste_ would be all alone now. One day, maybe sooner tha[ the others realised, he would find her. Take her fo_ himself?

A gunner's mate gaped up at him, his mouth like Z black hole as he bellowed, "Look out, sir! For Christ'Y sake . . ." His words were lost in the grating crash ob timber as the main topgallant yard plunged through thO nets like a great tree. It gouged into the planking anX further still to the deck below. As its trailing rigging anX severed halliards thundered between the blazing gunY Graves died, his body impaled under the broken spar?

At the quarterdeck rail Bolitho saw him die, anX knew that the months of patrol duty, the storms and thO fights, had at last broken the yard which they had oncO

fished so carefully after another battle, a thousanX years ago?

But Heyward was there, his voice rallying the gu[ crews as the anchored transport faded into the smokeB her hull pitted with holes from the bow-chaser'Y merciless bombardment?

The wind fanned the smoke aside, and witN something like disbelief he saw the sheer of CapO Henry pulling back like a huge door, the horizo[ glittering beyond it in welcome?

Fowler slipped and fell on some blood and sobbedB "It's no use! I can't ...T

Bethune strode towards him. "You can and you dam[ well will!T

The young midshipman turned and blinked at him? "What?T

Bethune grinned, his face black with powder smoke? "You heard me! So jump to it, boy!T

"Mr. Buckle!" Bolitho winced as some stray shotY shrieked through the shrouds and brought down morO lengths of cordage. "I want you to ..?

But the master took no notice. He was sitting with hiY back to the hatchway, hands to his chest as if in prayer? His eyes were open, but the spreading pattern of blooX around him told its own story?

Glass and a solitary seaman stood at thO unprotected wheel, their eyes wild, their legs straddleX amidst dead and dying?

Bolitho snapped, "As close as you can. Lucifer'Y remains will guide you clear of the shoal.T

As sunlight enveloped the sloop from stem to sternB and her yards swung yet again to take her out of thO bay, Bolitho saw the great array of ships coming dow[ from the southern horizon and filling the sea. It was Z fantastic spectacle. Squadron by squadron, the ships1 of-the-line appearing to overlap as they headeX purposefully towards the Chesapeake?

Foley murmured, "De Grasse. I have never see[ such a fleet.T

Bolitho tore his eyes away and hurried to the taffrail? There was no sign of pursuit from the bay, nor had hO expected one. The two frigates would be guarding thei_ new anchorage and trying to rescue some of thO

soldiers who had escaped Sparrow's fury. He turneX towards the wheel where Heyward and Bethune stooX watching him?

"We will wear ship directly." He saw Dalkeith anX called, "Tell me!T

Dalkeith eyed him sadly. "It's done. He's sleepin^ now. But I am confident.T

Bolitho wiped his face and felt Stockdale steady hiY arm as the ship pitched heavily to the freshening wind?

So much still to do. Repairs to be carried out eve[ as they avoided the oncoming might of France. To finX Admiral Graves and tell him of the enemy's arrival. TQ bury their dead. His mind felt numb?

Yule, the gunner, clattered up a sagging ladder anX barked, "Any spare hands, sir? I need'em for thO pumps!T

Bolitho faced him. "Get them elsewhere.T

He looked around at the sprawled bodies caught i[ their various attitudes of death?

"Only the brave lie here.T

He looked up, startled, as from high above the dec7 he heard someone singing. Beyond the pitted canvaY and dangling rigging, to where the topgallant yard haX splintered apart before falling to kill Graves, he saw Z solitary seaman working in the sunlight, his marli[ spike glinting as he spliced a broken stay. The soundY of sea and booming sails were too loud for him to hea_ the words, but the tune seemed familiar and strangela sad?

Foley joined him and said quietly, "If they can sin^ like that, after what they've done." He turned awayB unable to watch Bolitho's face. "Then, by God, I enva you!T

EPILOGUY

TWO DAYS after fighting out of the bay, Sparrow'Y lookouts sighted the van of Admiral Graves's fleeU bearing down the coast of Maryland. The occasio[ was both exciting and bitter, for with many of he_ company wounded or killed it was hard not to feeT emotion. Well ahead of the fleet, her signal flagY rippling in the sunlight, Heron stood before the wind, Z small symbol of what they had endured and achieveX

together?

Bolitho could remember the moment exactly, as witN his men he had waited on the splintered quarterdec7 while his signals were passed to Heron and repeateX to the flagship?

When the reply had been received, Bethune haX turned, his face suddenly matured?

"Flag to Sparrow, sir. You will lead. Yours is thO honour. T

For an admiral who disliked superfluous signallingB Admiral Graves had done them proudly?

Once again, Sparrow had gone about, her torn sailY and battered hull acting like a pointer to the greaU ships-of-the-line which followed obediently in her wake?

Once in sight of the bay, and with the knowledge thaU the French were still there, Sparrow's role had becomO that of a mere spectator to a battle which was to leavO its mark on all who took part. A warning to youn^ officers like Bolitho, a grim lesson to the hidebounX who had for so long fought by the book, a book whicN had become outdated by hard experience?

Perhaps Admiral Graves had expected, even hopeX up to the last moment that the French had quit thO Chesapeake or at worst de Barras's smaller squadro[ would be there, having slipped past his patrols anX escaped from Newport some days earlier. Sparrow'Y signal had put paid to any such belief, and the sight ob such a grand array must have filled him witN misgivings. But if his fleet was inferior to de Grasse'Y in both ships and guns, he had much in his favour. ThO wind gave him the advantage, and as Tyrrell had sQ often predicted the treacherous middle-grounX between the Chesapeake's capes was soon to sho/ its impartiality to those who braved it?

With the British bearing down on the bay, and dO Barras's reinforcements not yet in close company, dO Grasse decided to weigh and meet them in ope[ water. An adverse wind and tide, the dangerous spit ob middle-ground, soon told him he was unable to leavO his protective anchorage as a complete fleet? Squadron by squadron, his ships fought their waa around Cape Henry, with Lucifer's skeleton close by aY a warning to the foolhardy or the careless?

This should have been Graves's great opportunity? To signal General Chase and allow his captains to falT on the enemy before he could reassemble anX

proclaim his superiority. Had there been a Hawke or Z Keppel in command there was little doubt in anyone'Y mind that the effect would have been devastating?

But once again Graves faltered, his mind graspin^ the written word of the "Fighting Instructions" anX seeing no other alternative?

His flagship hoisted the rigid signal to form line ob battle, and it remained flying throughout the action. ThO delay allowed de Grasse to assemble his fleet anX when the two adversaries finally drove together it waY impossible for the rearmost British ships even tQ engage. By evening, failing light forced the fleets tQ disengage, and driven by a strong north-easterly botN soon lost contact?

When at last Graves was able to re-form hiY squadrons, the French had beaten back into thO Chesapeake. They did not leave it again, and afte_ further hesitation Graves ordered his frustrateX captains to sail for New York?

Helpless and beyond reach of the action itselfB Bolitho had watched much of the tactics and guesseX far more of what was happening. He left the deck aU regular intervals to speak with Tyrrell in the sickbayB

holding his hand as he tried to describe the sequencO of events?

He could recall each visit exactly. Tyrrell's face vera pale in the laternlight, his mouth clenched against thO agony. And around him, groaning or sobbing quietlyB the others who had suffered, and some who werO beyond pain?

Tyrrell had said hoarsely, "That's th' army finished!T He had gripped Bolitho's hand with some of his olX vigour. "But we did what we could!T

Later at Sandy Hook, as Sparrow had carried ouU repairs and Bolitho had received orders to sail fo_ England with the admiral's despatches and news of thO battle, the blow had fallen?

Cut off from the sea, his ammunition and supplieY exhausted, Cornwallis and his whole army haX capitulated?

True to his reputation, General Washington haX allowed the British to surrender with both honour anX dignity, but it was a crushing defeat, nevertheless?

Couriers who had brought the news of the surrende_ told of the British military band which led their soldierY

into General Washington's camp. They had bee[ playing "The World Turned Upside Down," which gavO some hint of what they thought about their situation ib nothing else?

Under low cloud and a steady drizzle Sparro/ weighed and turned her stern to Sandy Hook for thO last time. Her company reacted to their sailing orderY with mixed feelings. Some mourned old friends whoR they had buried at sea or left crippled to await morO comfortable transport. Others were almost afraid ob what they might find in England after so long. And therO were plenty who turned their backs on America anX dreamed only of that moment when they would steS ashore in their own country, thankful at being spareX the pain and despair, grateful even to see the leade[ sky above the mastheads?

When not required on deck Bolitho spent much ob the voyage alone in his cabin. It made contact lesY painful, the losses of familiar faces easier to bear?

He could remember his last handshake with TyrrelT as he had said his farewells at a New York hospital? Dalkeith had been there, too, and it had been a saX parting. It was still hard to think of Tyrrell with one legB nor did he want to. One thing seemed certain, TyrrelT

was without despair?

"After this, I'm going home." He had said it severaT times. "I don't know how or when, but by th' Lord I'll geU there!T

Dalkeith had been appointed to an accommodatio[ ship off Sandy Hook, and had added quietly, "Recko[ they'll need a good doctor, too, eh, Jethro?" He haX given his deep chuckle. "So here's me hand on it!T

Bolitho shivered and pulled his coat more closela across his body. It was cold and very damp, and thO bulkhead was dripping with condensation. He glanceX at the open log book. It was the first day of Januara 1782, another year for all of them. He stood up anX walked slowly from the cabin, his legs taking the pitcN and plunge without conscious thought or effort. Ove_ three and a half years since he had stepped into thiY ship which had become so much a part of him?

He climbed the ladder and saw Heyward at thO weather nettings. It would be worse for him. He haX been aboard since she had commissioned five yearY back. He walked across to him, seeing the grey misU swirling through the dripping shrouds, the spraa bursting high above the gangway?

"Well, Mr. Heyward, the English Channel. YonderB with any sort of luck, lies the Isle of Wight. We wilT anchor at Spithead before dark.T

Heyward looked at him steadily. "It's a strangO feeling, sir." He shrugged. "I'm not sure if I want tQ leave the ship now.T

Bolitho nodded. "It is often the case. Sparrow is nQ different from the rest of us. She needs a prope_ overhaul in the yard, and she is to be fitted with thesO new carronades we keep hearing about. She'll not bO the same after this." He saw Bethune climbing from thO gun deck, his jaw working on a stale biscuit. "I doubt ib any of us will.T

"Land ho! Fine on th' starboard bow!T

Bolitho took a glass. "Wight. You'd better let her falT off a point." He watched Heyward hurry to the rail witN his speaking trumpet. It could have been Tyrrell?

Then he looked around the rain-soaked deck at thO seamen by the mizzen braces, their faces and armY even darker in the hostile grey light?

A tan-sailed yawl bobbed past, a bearded ma[

waving from the tiller. On the other beam he saw Z smudge of land through the drizzle and mist. England? He gripped the rail hard. After so long and so much?

"Steady as she goes, sir!" Heyward joined hiR again?

Bethune stood on his opposite side and murmuredB "I feel as if I've grown up in Sparrow.T

Bolitho thrust his arms around their shoulders?

"We all did.T

Then he turned away and said formally, "Muster you_ anchor party and tell the gunner to prepare a salute.T

He began to pace slowly up and down the weathe_ side, seeing the busy seamen around him, and mana more. Buckle and Tilby, Graves and the artisU Majendie?

He paused and touched the rail, the scars wherO balls had cut down so many of his men?

A frigate loomed through the mist on an oppositO tack, her flags very bright against the murky backcloth?

Fowler called, "What ship?, sir.T Bolitho nodded. "Hoist our number.T Sparrow, sloop-of-war, had come home?