has the local knowledge to make use of smaller, faster vessels. To have a chance of success we must command and keep open every trade route, search and detain any suspected craft, make our presence felt. Wars are not finally won with ideals, they are won with powder and shot, and that the enemy does not have in quantity. Yet.' He looked around their faces, his eyes bleak. 'The Halifax convoy is carrying a great deal of powder and shot, cannon too, which are intended for the military in Philadelphia and here in New York. If just one of those valuable cargoes fell into the wrong hands we would feel the effects for months to come.' He looked round sharply. 'Questions?'

It was Sparke who rose to his feet first.

'Why us, sir? Of course, I am most gratified to be putting to sea in my country's service, to try and rectify some – '

Pears said heavily, 'Please get on with the bones of the matter.'

Sparke swallowed hard, his scar suddenly very bright on his cheek.

"Why net send frigates, sir?'

'Because there are not enough, there never are enough. Also, the admiral feels that a show of strength might be of more value.'

Bolitho stiffened, as if he had missed something. It was in the captain's tone. Just the merest suggestion of doubt. He glanced at his companions but they seemed much as usual. Perhaps he was imagining it, or seeking flaws to cover up his earlier discomfort under Pears' tongue.

Pears added, 'Whatever may happen this time, we must never drop our vigilance. This ship is our first responsibility, our main concern at all times. The war is changing from day to day. Yesterday's traitor is tomorrow's patriot. A man who responded to his country's call,' he shot a wry smile at Sparke, 'is now called a Loyalist, as if he and not the others was some sort of freak and outcast.'

The master, Erasmus Bunce, stood up very slowly, his eyes peering beneath a deckhead beam like twin coals.