Broughton frowned and then gave a small shrug. “That was a fair match of words, ma’am.”

To Bolitho he said, “This is what I intend!”

There was no hint of shock or anger at the manner of Draffen’s death. As in the past, Broughton had already discarded him. A memory, and nothing more. Later, in England, he might find it less easy to ignore.

He said, “It seems almost certain the French will try and drive us from here.” He paused as if expecting an argument. “Sighting those ships and then losing them because of Rattray’s stupidity over my signal makes me more inclined to accept your earlier remarks!” He nodded. “You certainly left Gillmor a good report before you sailed on that fool errand against the pirates.” He sighed. “Really, Bolitho, you must learn to accept that you are already out of reach of those more lighthearted events!”

“It seemed advisable to remove one threat before we took on another, sir.”

“Maybe.” He sounded cautious. “But by now the Franco-Spanish alliance will know that the squadron which left Gibraltar is here on their porchway. Urgency to complete their plan will become even more apparent.” He nodded as if to confirm his thoughts. “I am not waiting for them. I propose to take the squadron towards Cartagena. For if only half the reports are true, that is where the enemy has been concentrating his transports and war vessels. What could be more likely? A further attempt to strengthen the relationship between the two countries after their defeat at St Vincent.”

Bolitho nodded. It was obvious the admiral had given the matter a great deal of thought during the past day or so. As well he might. For to return to Gibraltar and report that Djafou had been found useless, and Draffen had been killed by one of his own officers, would be asking for certain retribution. Broughton had already incurred the Admiralty’s displeasure over his part in the Spithead mutiny and the loss of the Auriga, and he more than anyone needed to obtain some credit, which the capture of the Navarra and a small brig hardly represented.

He replied, “It is very likely, sir. It is equally possible we may meet with the enemy in open water.”

“That is what I pray for.” Broughton paced to the window, showing some signs of agitation. “If we can bring them to grips we will have shown them that we are not merely a cat’s-paw. And that others will follow us in even greater strength.”

“And if we discover nothing at Cartagena, sir, what then?”

Broughton turned and looked at him calmly. “Then, Bolitho, I am a ruined man.” He seemed to realise he had shown too much of a confidence and added abruptly, “We will weigh tomorrow morning. Commander Inch will return to Gibraltar with the brig and Navarra. He will also carry all the garrison and other, er, people we have gathered. I have no doubt the governor there will be pleased to use them for exchange with British prisoners of war.”