You are not on trial here, but we are dealing with diplomacy, something more nebulous than the cannon's mouth, or the rights and wrongs of battle."

"No captain can be expected to contradict… "Adam broke off, and continued calmly, "Given all the circumstances, the vessels at our disposal, and the weather, I think we acted in the only way possible. Good men died that day at San Jose.

Slavery is an evil and a brutal thing. But it is still highly rewarding for those who condone it. "He turned unconsciously toward the half-hidden desk. "And it costs lives, even if it is dismissed as a skirmish by those who apparently know otherwise!"

The bony hand came up slowly. "Well said, Bolitho. I hope your ideals reach Parliament. Eventually."

He turned over more papers, and when he spoke again it was as if his thoughts had been rearranged with them.

"Athena is paid off, and her people moved to other ships when suitable, or to continue their lives ashore. As is the way of the navy. Your first lieutenant has elected to remain with Athena until she is given over to other work, "a cold eye briefly across the desk, "or disposed of."

Adam said nothing, recalling the stern, unsmiling features of Stirling, the first lieutenant. Unmoved, unshaken even in the heat of battle. A man he had never understood. But was I to blame? Grenville stood up suddenly and walked to the nearest window. He wore a plain, perfectly cut blue coat, and it was easy to see him as a captain again.

Over his shoulder he remarked, almost offhandedly, "You had Lady Somervell buried at sea. That was your decision, I believe?"