Chapter Five Summary

Stephen rides back to Portsmouth anxious at the news from Blaine and wishing that he had brought some cocoa leaves to calm his nerves. Near the gallows he is almost overtaken by the pursuit of thundering hooves, but manages to speed his mare, Lalla, on and reach the town gate of Portsmouth safely. He stops at an inn for a drink and reflects on the true mission of Jack's command. A British agent named McAnon has uncovered a plot by the French for a secret invasion of Ireland. A French squadron, ostensibly bound for the West Indies, will depart from Lorient and steer to Bantry Bay on the southeastern coast of Ireland. Jack's orders, which he will not open until he is at sea are to intercept the invading squadron.

Stephen returns to the Ballona. Captain Thomas of the Thames is leaving the Commodore's office...