Still standing, Kydd produced a second sheet of paper. "And this is Lieutenant Prosser's confession, sir. He agrees to testify against Commander Carthew as principal in the matter."
"Thank you, Mr. Kydd," Saumarez said heavily. "If this is true, it is a particularly sad circumstance, imputing as it does an appalling transgression against common morality on the part of an officer of my command. It were best I should bring this matter to a head without a moment's delay."
The admiral rang a bell and ordered his flag-lieutenant, "Commander Carthew, Scorpion, and Lieutenant Prosser, Teazer, to attend me here within the hour." Then he turned back to Kydd. "You'll oblige me by remaining, sir, while I establish if there is a case to answer."
Carthew entered the room, his dress uniform immaculate. When he caught sight of Kydd he recoiled.
"Sit, if you please, Mr. Carthew—there," Saumarez said, indicating the place opposite Kydd.
"Mr. Prosser, sir." The flag-lieutenant ushered in a haggard-looking officer who stared doggedly downwards. Carthew was clearly disconcerted to see him.
"Now, this should not take long, gentlemen," Saumarez began.
"Mr. Kydd has laid before me evidence of a conspiracy that resulted in the loss of his ship and his good name. We are here to—"
"Sir!" Carthew flung a murderous glance at Kydd. "Surely you're not to be swayed by anything this proven blackguard has said! He's—"
"Mr. Prosser," Saumarez said flatly, ignoring Carthew, "do you recognise this?" He handed across a paper.