In the line of duty
Contrary to Marianne's wishes, it was not possible for her to leave Gibraltar, for the Spanish and French attacks quickly began after the ball. All ships were called to port and the fleet engaged mostly in a series of defensive maneuvers or short looting expeditions, unsuccessful most of them. She saw very little of her brother in those days , so she confined herself to the guest quarters or Lady Montague's apartments. Since Sir Arthur was also called on board the 'Queen Anne', the elderly lady could not hide her anxiety and fears. Now it was Marianne's turn to show all her affection and kindness to the woman she considered as a second mother.
It was a bright September morning. Marianne wake up and opened her window facing the sea. The 'Indefatigable' stood proudly anchored in the middle of the harbor. She raised a silent prayer for the day.
""Please Heavenly Father, protect them both! ""
Suddenly she was startled by rough sounds in the distance. At first she thought it was a storm, but the cool morning breeze brought back to the mainland the unmistakable smell of powder.
"" My God, it's cannon! ""
Three of the ships anchored at the harbor: the 'Queen Anne', 'Dumbarton' and 'King George' set sail out to open sea as soon as the first cannon fire was heard. Vice Admiral Montague ordered the remaining four hips to stay and protect the harbor at all costs.
"This is a most extreme situation, gentlemen "Captain Pellew said to his officers"Most part of the fleet are on his way to Gibraltar. We are the only defenses available, so we must prevent any French or Spanish ships from breaking our lines. If we lose Gibraltar, not only the cost in human lives will be great, but the war will be a complete disaster for our country."
With every gunshot and cannon fired, the sky grew darker. Finally rain, wind and thunder came upon the French, Spanish and English alike. Many thought that the rain was gift from Heaven, for water and humidity were the worst possible enemies for powder; but it only served to cover the retreat of the enemy ships, like silent ghosts, leaving behind a trail of devastation and death.
The ships 'Queen Anne' and 'King George' were utterly destroyed and in less than an hour, were completely sunken. The 'Dumbarton' tried to pick as many survivors as she could. And among them, deadly wounded was Vice Admiral Montague.
News of the disaster reached the 'Indefatigable'. In the absence of Vice Admiral Montague, Captain Pelew was the senior officer in charge of the whole harbor.
He was much distressed when he heard about Sir Arthur's grave state and as soon as made himself sure that the situation was safe, he went ashore to Government House. Sir Arthur has always been a steady presence in his life, even at a distance. Since he never had a warm or close relationship with his own father"a rather cold and distant man"who was very disappointed in his son for choosing to be a "common sailor""he now experienced for the first time what losing a parent might be.
He was taking directly to Sir Arthur's quarters. Sir Hew and Dr. Trevor were speaking quietly outside the patient's room.
"Ah, Sir Edward! A black day for all of us!"expressed ir Hew.
"Indeed... Dr. Trevor, may I inquire after your patient?"
"I'm afraid there are no good news, sir. I can't do anything else for him. He's bleeding to death slowly.-
"I see..."
After a few minutes talk, Sir Hew and Dr. Trevor retired. He was about to enter the room, when the door was quietly opened and Marianne appeared. She looked pale and tired. Traces of recent tears were all over her face. In her hands, she was carrying a basin filled with bloody cloths.
"Captain!! Thank God, you are well and safe!"Her first impulse was to touch him, but something in his dark look made her stopped.
"Ms. Hornblower, forgive me if I forgo the usual pleasantries... How's Sir Arthur?"Captain Pellew spoke in such a cold and distant manner that she felt as if she had been hit by him.
Her answer was soft and sweet though.
"Not very well, sir. He has been asking for you since yesterday!"
"And Lady Elisabeth?"
"At his bedside. She cannot be persuaded to leave him ..."Tears came to her eyes."What is it to gain in this conflict, when good , loving and generous men like him are put to the slaughter? And why? This is the stupid business of two spoiled countries who aren't resigned to lose their former glories!"
"Ms. Hornblower, I'm surprised at you! Sir Arthur and each of those men lost at sea had good cause to fight. The uniform we wear is the symbol of a life of duty, adventure and adversity, and yes even death. And as useless as it may seem to you, it is part of our duty as officers in His Majesty's Navy."He had barely finished when he realized that trying to hide his own pain, he had hurt her extremely.
Marianne only looked at him. Her chin trembled a little.
"Always honor and duty! But where's your heart, sir?"She walked away, tears rolling down her cheeks.
The room was quiet. Lady Montague was holding her husband's hand, kneeling at his bedside. She seemed to have grown older and yet her smile was as young and warm as ever when she saw him enter the room.
"My dear boy!"
Sir Edward took one of her hands.
"Your ladyship!"
At the sound of his voice, Sir Arthur opened his eyes.
"Edward!"
"Sir?"Captain Pellew came near to the bed."How are you feeling?"
"Never mind about that!... I'm sick and tired of this kind of pampering around me!... Report if you please, sir!"Although looking extremely ill, Sir Arthur's voice was firm as ever.
"Sir, the it seems we have the situation under control. There had been no further attacks and this morning the 'Sophia', 'Catherine' and 'Lady Temperance' had arrived unharmed to port. It is expected the rest of the fleet will arrive tomorrow.-
Sir Arthur seemed pleased by the news.
"Be on your guard Edward! Now you are n command. His Majesty's defenses depend completely on your good judgment."
"My dear try not to distress yourself!"begged Lady Elisabeth.
"I'm fine love..."He began to cough with great effort, pain all over his face.
"Sir!!"Sir Edward tried to help him.
"It's nothing!..."He looked at his wife's anguished face. He smiled lovingly at her."My dear, will you fetch that bloody surgeon?. I think it's time for one of his damn concoctions . Would you do that my love?"
"Yes Arthur, I'll fetch him immediately!"
"One more thing Elisabeth... Would you tell Marianne to come and stay a little longer? It comforts me to see her at your side!"
"I will dearest!"She kissed one of his hands and left the room.
Once the two men were alone, Sir Arthur fixed his eyes on Captain Pellew's grave countenance. With a sign he expressed his wish Sir Edward would be seated a his side.
"Come here dear boy!"he hadn't used that expression in years.
Sir Edward noticed that the old man's breathing was harder and an intense whiteness bathed his skin.
"Yes, sir?"
"Oh, for God's sake! Can't you stopped being so bloody formal Edward?"
"Yes, Arthur ?"
"Good, good..."The old man extended his hand still covered with traces of dried blood."I wanted Elisabeth out of the room. She is trying so hard to convince herself that I'm going to be well, that I can't stand to disappoint her. I know I'm dying... and soon!"
Sir Edward made no reply.
"Edward, you know Elisabeth and I weren't able to have a family. But I always considered that God was good with us. We had each other and you came to our lives to fulfill the place of the son we never had with so much devotion and affection than any real son would have... And now Elisabeth had found her "daughter" Marianne."
Sir Edward tried to fight back the stinging sensation of tears filling his eyes.
"In the end that is what really counts; the love you have given and the love you have received in this
life. That's all you take with you to your tomb. Remember this: a life perfectly planned can be endured, but it can never be lived fully. Don't punish yourself! Don't deny yourself happiness!"
It seemed for a moment that Sir Arthur had fallen asleep, but suddenly he opened his eyes. He began mumbling some words. Sir Edward lowered his head in order to catch its meaning.
-- The glories of our birth and state
Are shadows, not substantial things;
There are no armour against fate-
Death lays, his icy hands on kings;
Sceptre and crown
Must tumble down,
An in the dust be equal made
With the poor crooked scythe and spade...
The garlands wither on your brow,-
Then boast no more your mighty deeds,
Upon death's purple altar, now,
see where the victor victims bleeds!
All heads must come
To the cold tomb,-
Only the actions of the just
Smell sweet, and blossom in the dust.(*)
Captain Pellew could no longer contain himself. Two solitary and silent tears escaped his eyes. He could feel its bitter taste on his lips and for one second in the middle of his pain, he wished for Marianne to be at his side comforting him. The old gentleman's hand tightened his grip. He could barely be heard now.
"I know Edward! Take care of her, my boy!.... And love her with all your heart!"
When Lady Montague and Marianne entered once more the room, both of them noticed immediately a subtle change. Sir Edward was still holding his friend's hand, his eyes red because of recent tears. Lady Elisabeth approached her husband's bed. Just one look at the dear old face told her that he was gone. Sir Edward stood up, and very gently put the old gentleman's hand on his chest. He faced her.
"M'am, I regret to inform you...."He couldn't finish the sentence. The elderly woman came near him, and touched his cheek with icy cold fingers.
"I know dear Edward..."She leaned her head on him seeking comfort. Captain Pellew embraced her and brush her gray hair with his lips. Lady Montague then went to the bed and knelt beside it.
"This has been the only time I couldn't get your meaning. You wanted me out of the room!. But I'm not angry, really dearest. It's just that it has been the first time in forty years that we haven't face together life or death..."
Marianne very discretely went out of the room, feeling her heart would break in a million pieces. Captain Pellew followed her. No words passed between them. They only looked at each other, with pain and loneliness as their common bond, and also a silent goodbye.
(Letter from Lady Elisabeth Montague to Capt. Sir Edward Pellew.)
To Captain Sir Edward Pellew
H.S.M. Indefatigable
Dear Edward,
I write this to you with a grieving heart. It is in relation my husband's funeral. I know it would have been his cherished wish to be buried at sea, among his comrades in arms. Would you arrange it ?
The future seemed uncertain now and I don't know what I will do with my life. Thank God, Marianne is with me. No child of my own could have been sweeter! And her constant affection and tenderness has been my only lifeline in these terrible moments. She has asked me to go back to England with her and stayed at her home, God bless her soul!. I'm determines to accept it, at least for now, for I don't think I could bear loneliness very well.
Please send word when everything is in readiness.
I shall never forget your loyalty and goodness of heart during his last moments. Received as always my affection and gratitude.
Sincerely,
Lady Elisabeth Montague
(*) Poem by James Shirley
Forty eight hours after the attack the 'Indefatigable' set sail off the harbor. The sun was almost down, but still bathed the Mediterranean waters with its last golden rays. A guard of honor stood on deck, while Sir Arthur's body was carried by all the senior officers, each of them from different ships. Whistles blew their pungent sounds in the wind. Near the railing, Captain Pellew and his own officers awaited to receive his comrade's body and placed it on the platform.
The usual sober naval service was read and just before the body was committed to the water, Sir Edward struggling to contain his pain,, gave back to the man who had been a true friend and more than a father a few last words.
" Fair hope is dead, and light
is quenched in night;
What sound can break the silence of despair?
O, doubting heart!
The sky is overcast,
Yet stars shall rise at last,
Brighter for darkness past,
And angels' silver voices stir the air. (**)
When the body fell into the water, he replied to Sir Arthur's last words.
"" I do love her with all my heart, body and soul... But I will die a thousands deaths before causing her this kind of sorrow... It's not I'm denying myself love and happiness. I'm giving her back, her freedom, her happiness and well being... Farewell, my dearest friend! ""
(**) Adelaide Anne Procter
Matters of the heart
The raid was counted as one of the most terrible disasters ever to befall on the English fleet
since the hostilities began. It took almost a month to regain strength and confidence. Several small attacks were directed to any Spanish or French sail seen in the horizon, but no victories were gained. Finally Hornblower proposed a plan to intercept a small French sloop called 'Le Reve'. Captain Pellew approved of his plan, so the young officer went ashore with a few of his men and successfully took by surprise the ship. Once again Acting Lieutenant Hornblower was the toast of his fellow officers.
On his return to the 'Indefatigable' various letters awaited him. Among them one from his sister, whom he hadn't seen since Sir Arthur's death.
(Letter from Ms. Marianne Hornblower to Acting Lieutenant Horatio Hornblower, Esquire)
To Acting Lieutenant Horatio Hornblower
H.S.M. Indefatigable
Gibraltar
Dear Horatio,
I hope this letter reaches you well and safe. Before the sad events regarding the death of dear Sir Arthur, I expressed to you my wish to return to England as soon as possible. It seems that Sir Arthur made those arrangements shortly before his death and by the time you received this, Lady Montague and myself will be on our way home on board a ship called 'Lady Blue', a private merchant ship under the command of one Captain Warwick.
Due to Lady Montague's low spirits, I invited her to stay at Evergreen Cottage at least until Christmas, and since I know your affection for her, this decision will not alter in any way your plans when you return on leave.
Please convey my regards to Captain Pellew and thank him in Lady Montague's behalf all his goodness and kindness during those sad moments.
Never doubt, my dear brother of your captain's sincere appreciation of yourself as an officer; something you have earned by your courageous actions. If you wish to imitate someone; be like him! For you should not find a better officer and a better man in the whole of England. Write soon telling me all your news. God keep you in all your battles!
Your loving sister,
Marianne
"Dinner, sir?"
"Yes, dinner, boy! That happens when a group pf people seat in front of a table full of spoons, forks and knives. Usually, food is served..."For the first time in months, Captain Pellew was jesting in his old way with Horatio.
"Well, sir...I...-
"Oh, come on man! Start your preparations. I don't intend to be late on account of your dawdling, sir!"
"No, sir..."
Before Horatio left the cabin, Captain Pellew called him back. It has been almost three weeks without any news what so ever from Marianne, and he couldn't refrain his curiosity no longer.
"Sure this will be a happy occasion for you, seeing your sister tonight at Government House."
Horatio looked directly at him.
"Sir, my sister is no longer at Gibraltar."
Captain Pellew became ashen white. He didn't spoke for a few seconds and when he did, his voice was tense.
"What did you say? Where is she?"
"Sir, I've just received a communication from her where she tells me that Lady Montague and
herself had returned to England on board the 'Lady Blue' a private merchant ship."
There was an uncomfortable silence between the two men.
"The 'Lady Blue' you say?"
"Yes, sir."
"Did you know your sister had this plans?"
Horatio was taken by surprise. He felt cornered.
"Well, yes sir. My sister disclosed this information shortly after the ball at Government House."Horatio was beginning to feel angry."" Why should I have to give any explanations to him? "-
Sir Edward's furious reaction startled him.
"Damn it Hornblower! Couldn't you persuade her not to engage in such a journey? Surely it must evident for you that the situation is not safe!"
" Sir, I resent your remarks! I don't see why should you intervene with family matters that are only my own concern!"
Captain Pellew walked towards the officer with blazing fury in his eyes.
"Damn your impudence, sir! It is not your place to criticize me, nor tell me what I should or shouldn't be concerned about! It's about time that someone should take proper care of your sister's well being and safety, and in that score you have been most careless!-
Horatio stood firm, but a hostile gaze was fixed on the captain's face.
"I protest!! And with all due respect, sir.... You have no right...-
"Enough!!"yelled the captain. Just a few inches separated both men."My God Hornblower, one more look or word from you and I'll...."He stopped. What will he do? Demand satisfaction in a duel? Kill him? Courtmartialed him?. He once more turn his back.
"Dismissed! Tell Mr. Bracegirdle to have one of the ship's boats in readiness by five o'clock."
"Aye, aye sir. But I must inform you that I intend to decline tonight's invitation..."
"You will do no such thing sir! You have been requested to attend and now I'm ordering you to go. Not that I care much to be in your company tonight, but you shall receive certain orders regarding a passenger you will convey to England on board 'Le Reve'. You may leave now, sir!"
Horatio walked out of the cabin. He was extremely hurt by the captain's words, but being a noble soul, he accepted the fact that it was fair for Sir Edward to express concern, It was obvious for him now, that the captain really cared in a most special way for his sister. He feared he had ruined his friendship with a man he admired so much.
"" Have I ruined Marianne's happiness too?""
He was holding the small delicate handkerchief. With a slow movement he lifted it near his face and smelled its scent. He closed his eyes. An indelible image arose from his memory. Their first and only dance. He had never until that moment held her hand for such a long time and that gentle sensation had haunted him for weeks. What he felt for Roxanne in his youth was nothing compared to this endless aching need of holding her and fell that vibrant body close to his. He put the handkerchief away in his sleeve again.
"" Why did I behave in such a beastly manner? Am I so hardened, incapable of tenderness? When I saw her last she was so sad... I could have comforted her, we could have shared the sadness of our loss, but what did I do? Talk away such nonsense, hurting her beyond anything! "-
A solemn silence made way through his heart. He once again was late. He was late for Roxanne and he was too late for Marianne now. He was born too soon, he was older than her and had nothing to offer except a life of loneliness, continuous absences and in the end, perhaps a premature death.
Dinner was magnificent. Apart from the sad expressions about Sir Arthur's recent death, conversation was easy and entertaining.
Sir Hew's new guest, one Duchess of Wharfdale was the soul of the party. Still attractive at her age, outspoken and with a charming way of flirting delighted the gentlemen present. On her part, she was enchanted to be put in charge of Horatio's care on board 'Le Reve' and assured all guests that her voyage home would be most enjoyable.
After dinner, the party divided into small groups. Horatio was completely cornered by the Duchess and other ladies. Captain Pellew couldn't help smiled at his "gaucherie". On another occasion he would have helped the lad, but tonight he decided to let his officer "stew in his own pot".
"" He's just a boy! And I behaved miserably in the whole affair. I must try to make amends."-
Sir Edward sat alone. His peace of mind was of short duration, for two ladies joined him in his quiet corner.
"Dear me Sir Edward!"said Lady Metcalf"These are really terrible times! No wonder you look so forlorn!"
"And with such responsibility on your shoulders!"exclaimed Mrs. Norris, Lady Metclaf's best friend.
"Indeed, ladies!"was his best short answer.
But it seems Lady Metcalf was not so keen on letting her prey go without letting her fangs on him. His mistreatment of her daughter deserved revenge, at least a small one.
"And this war! It is exasperating, nothing happens! It's absolutely boredom, I tell you! And with Lady Montague's departure, our little group has reduced its number and its... diversions. Lady Montague was an extraordinary conversationalist!"
"Quite agree with you, my dear!"
"And that young acquaintance of hers... What was her name?"she looked at the captain for an answer. His face was as motionless as hard stone. Instead Mrs. Norris answered.
"Do you mean Ms. Marianne Hornblower?"
"Yes of course. Dear Sir Edward you must be put out after having your dear ship transformed in almost a nursery! My God, her manners, sir! And now this hasty departure... It is almost like a game of hide and seek!"she giggled in amusement.
Anger was beginning to take its toll on him. If any man should have said lees than that, he would have been challenge and shot. But what to do with these creatures?
Lady Metcalf noticed his discomfort and smiled triumphantly.
" It was most wise of you not to fall for such vulgar displays. Your good judgment does credit as always."
"Really? My good judgment?"asked the captain in pretended amazement.
"Of course! You understand my meaning.. We are after all society people! You know how some young women are... worst than a plague! And this one in particular. My God, so ill mannered and with nothing to recommend herself: no connections, no money. I accept she has tolerable features and a little talent for music"fingering"is the accurate expression to describe it, among her other hidden talents, no doubt! But nothing else. And her poor brother! What a responsibility for his young age! "
Mrs. Norris' voice pounded inside his head like a cannon ball.
"Only the other day, Captain Foster was telling me that Ms. Hornblower had an independence of spirit that finally would get the better of her and in the end she will drag her brother's promising career into all kinds of misfortunes. Let me tell you, if she were a child of mine, I'll correct her with a good whipping... Such flirting!"
"Well ladies, it is most fortunate that Ms. Hornblower is not the "child" of any of you... And by what I'm able to observe in your looks and manner is highly unlikely you should worry to have such a child. If you excuse me, I'll take my leave now!"he stood up and in a most gallant manner bowed to the two astonished women.
(Letter from Captain Pellew to Ms. Marianne Hornblower.)
To Ms. Marianne Hornblower
Evergreen Cottage
Evergreen, Oxfordshire
Miss Hornblower:
It is my sad duty to inform you that your brother had been taken prisoner by the Spanish crown while returning to England, and now stays confined in a fort at the coast of Cadiz. I know how much pain this news will caused you, but I would like to reassure you that once I'll return to England I will do anything in my power to secure his release through diplomatic channels. Do forgive me for being the messenger of such terrible news, but I feel it is my duty as your brother's commanding officer and also as a friend to inform you this. I hope Lady Montague is well and more composed in spirits in your company. Give her all my regards and true affection as always.
Accept my best wishes for your good health and happiness.
Captain Sir Edward Pellew..
After two months, Hornblower was released from his prison in Cadiz along with his division and Midshipman Kennedy, who was taken prisoner by the Spanish during the action of the 'Papillon' and thought lost at sea for the past year. On his return to his ship, he was told by a proud and enthusiastic Sir Edward that he had been promoted Lieutenant. It would have been Horatio's wish to have at least a short visit to England and see Marianne, but the latest intelligence reports sent to the captain spoke increasingly of a confrontation near the Strait of Usher, very close to England. Sir Edward was called to an urgent meeting at the admiralty in London, were he was ordered to convey royalist forces to Brittany in desperate attempt to restore King Louie to the throne. After the complete failure of that expedition, the 'Indefatigable' was ordered to open sea and gathered as much information as possible of the enemy ships, and in case of confrontation, they were to engaged in combat and destroyed as much vessels as possible.
The stormy confrontation between the captain and Horatio was completely forgotten by either party, regaining both of them their usual respect and camaraderie. But Lady Metclaf's poisonous comments still lingered in his mind. He began to wonder if Horatio's hostile reaction to his "interference in family matters" was due o them. Even Marianne's prolonged silence, he hasty departure when she seemed so happy at Gibraltar could have been motivated by the fact that no matter how much he had tried to conceal his feelings, they were finally discovered. He suspected that much when he heard Sir Arthur's last words: "I know... Take care of her my boy... And love her with all your heart!".
Now he was again facing danger. But the old feeling of excitement and adventure was lost forever. Dying in the field of honor was not his primary concern. Not that he feared death, that was not the case. It's just that he could not bear the thought of leaving this world without letting her know how much he cared for her and how sorry he was for his coldness and detachment.
That same night, he walked around the deck several times. Once again the sky was filled with stars and a lovely moon bathed everything it touched in an unreal, almost spectral light. A gush of wind coming from the west caressed his face. He closed his eyes. For one instant he thought he could feel her scent near him.
"" Delicious perfumed wind! Like a Zephyr! ""
He interrupted his reverie"specially because Mr. Bracegirdle's gaze was too attentive on him"excused himself and went back to his cabin. He gathered all his personal documents, enclosing a letter with instructions to his steward in the event of his death, and another one to Mr. Robert Davenport his solicitor and a childhood friend and neighbor; the only brother he had ever known, the same way Sir Arthur was the only real father in his life.
Finally he sat down before his most difficult task; emptying his heart on a blank page.
At sea.
Dearest Marianne,
Forgive me the liberty of my expression, but I've called you that so many times in my mind, that I cannot go on disguising the fact that you represent everything I hold close to my heart. I can say this to you now, because if you received this lines I most surely will be dead.
You were right. What is it to be gain in this war? But you see my love, this conflict is more than a war between two countries. It is a war between a man's soul and a man's mind, in which his heart is a poor forsaken prisoner.
My heart seeks release from this prison, and its only guiding light is you. What emptiness! What terrible loneliness when you are not near me! And yet, I chose to tear apart this love off my soul. We did not part well, and for that I'm sorry. It grieved me more than I can ever express in words. Your last question had been lingering in my ears all this months: " Where's your heart, sir? " My only answer is"Here"and is all yours forever.
If you should shed tears for me, do it as one would grieve a good friend. Never feel guilt or pain or discomfort about the few moments we shared together. For me they are precious, making my life less wasted, because after all I have loved truly and freely.
A wise sage said once that inside a man there are always three different kind of men: what he thinks he is, what others think he is and what he really is. I've never been more myself than writing this to you, my sweet, my dearest.
Remember me well. And be joyful, that's the greatest blessing I expect to achieve after death. The rest is not in my hands, nor yours, my one true love.
Farewell my dearest,
Edward.
A cannon ball tore up one of the top sails. Captain Pellew covered with dust kept yelling orders directing the attack.
"These damn "frogs" will never take my ship, never!""
He saw Horatio leading his division, opening fire relentlessly. Their aim was perfect and some serious damage was done to the enemy ships. From nowhere a gunshot was fires and Mr. Bracegirdle groaned in pain. He was hit in one of his arms.
"Mr. Bracegirlde, sir! Go bellow decks and report to Dr. Hepplewhite!"
"But, sir..."
"It's an order, damn it man! Do not contradict me!"
A French sailor jumped from behind the steering wheel, killing the helmsman. Instinctively, Captain Pellew pushed Mr. Bracegirdle to the floor. A gunshot was fired, closely followed by a second one. Sir Edward felt the most excruciating pain ever, almost losing consciousness.
Horatio came running from the lower deck, his face covered in blood.
"Captain! Are you all right?"
"Never mind Mr. Hornblower! How's Mr. Kennedy?"
"He's been taken bellow with a wound on his leg!"
"Take command of the lower deck! Mr. Bracegirdle and Mr. Bowles are also wounded. Do not let them... take this vessel, is that understood?"
"Aye, aye sir!"
Minute by minute he felt the blood was flowing faster. His sleeve was completely drenched in it and a small red stain began to form underneath his feet. He ordered once more alternate cannon fire from both sides of the ship. The men became more intense in their efforts at the sound of his voice. The enemie's yardarm was blown off, and the order to board the French frigate was carried out. After a while, Horatio went back to the 'Indie' and climbed the quarter deck.
"Report, Mr. Hornblower!"
"Sir, the French are surrendering! The ships are ours!"
"Very well, Mr. Hornblower. Launch boats to pick up survivors...."A sudden dizziness stopped Sir Edward from finishing his sentence. It was then that Horatio discovered the big pool of blood under him.
"Sir, you are wounded!"
"Hornblower, attend to your d..."Captain Pellew collapsed on the wooden floor
