What is the theme in The Thirteen-gun Salute by Patrick O'Brian?

Different ways of doing things is another theme in the book. The basic premise of the novel involves an entourage of British subjects seeking to forge an official alliance between Britain and Pulo Prabang. To this end Diane conveys Fox and others to Pulo Prabang where they attempt to develop and sign a treaty while simultaneously attempting to prevent a French entourage from succeeding. The principle characters all attempt to secure the treaty in their own ways, proving that there is more than one way to skin a cat. The French delegation, specifically Ledward, seeks success through trickery, fraud, and sexual adventure. He engages Abdul in sexual intercourse and then uses Abdul's influence over the Sultan to gain support for the French entourage.