Chapters 22, 23, 24, and 25 Summary

Hotspur joins Moore's squadron, which sweeps back and in line abreast searching for the Spanish treasure fleet. Hornblower is at the extreme end of the line and sights Félicité, the French frigate. The enemy vessel is attempting to locate the Spanish fleet and warn it of the English intentions. Hornblower gives chase, realizing it is the correct thing to do even though it means the likely loss of untold prize money. Hotspur clears for action and a prolonged cat and mouse chase ensues. The much-larger French frigate seeks to avoid combat and locate the Spanish fleet. Bush moves two cannons to the stern, cuts holes in the transom, and starts to shoot at the following enemy. Hotspur paces Félicité and maintains fire. The ships exchange long-distance broadsides and a prolonged gun battle runs on all day. Hotspur takes much...