***
Later that afternoon Midshipman Philippe d’Artois reported receiving a signal from the upper signalling station at Circle Hill. It reported that three French frigates were approaching Monte Vista from the West.
‘Prepare to get underway at once. Set course for Monte Vista. Lieutenant Savage, send a signal in accordance with my orders to the rest of the fleet.’
‘Aye aye, Captain.’
Jason watched as sailors clambered up the rigging of all seven warships. The sails were swiftly lowered into position. No effort was spared to ensure a return to Monte Vista at the highest speed possible. The freshly cleaned and treated hulls, now free of barnacles and marine growth, cut through the ocean with minimal resistance.