Chapters 6 and 7 Summary

Surprise and the St. Martin's blockade squadron rendezvous on the open sea. The squadron is led by William Babbington, one of Aubrey's protégés. Aubrey is technically under Babbington's command due to British maritime laws, and even though Aubrey bears a letter from the admiralty instructing Babbington to render assistance, it remains for Babbington to decide on a proper course of action. Fortunately he completely agrees with Aubrey's plans and endorses them wholeheartedly. Babbington also notes that he is promoted to post captain rank, news that Aubrey receives with enthusiasm. Aubrey then presents the plan to Babbington and the other squadron captains; in brief, Surprise's boats will sneak into the harbor at night; the British seamen will board Diane and carry her away, and Surprise will close the shore and fire on the battery as a distraction. Additional hands from...