Frigates of War: A John Phillips Novel by Testrake Richard

Author:Testrake, Richard [Testrake, Richard]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Published: 2013-12-27T16:00:00+00:00

St. Vincent was jovial when Phillips was admitted. “How is the Greyhound, Captain? Are you ready to put to sea again?”

“I am Sir. Although, I wish I had some men to replace my losses in the action with Citoyen.”

“Ah yes, I have read your request. The most recent packet from Portsmouth tells me that a transport was supposed to sail at the same time. Of course, we can’t expect an old worn out transport to sail at the same speed as a new mail packet, but as soon as it gets here, you can be sure you will get your fair share of people. Of course, you will understand these will be the run of the lot from the Impress Service.”

“Yes My Lord, however at this time, most of my present people I have rated, if not able, then at least ordinary seamen. We always can use some landsmen for pulling and hauling, so these new people will fill the need.”

“I understand you are storing ship, now?”

“I am, My Lord, although only for Plymouth. I am told I will need to obtain more stores there.”

“There we have them, Captain. Your destination will be the Eastern Mediterranean. My clerk is writing the orders now. You may take them to the Victualing Yard and insist upon a full store for foreign duty.”

“Now, things have changed a bit since your last presence there. Troubridge is presently handling the blockade of Alexandria, however by the time you get there, Commodore Smith will probably have taken over. Our old friend General Napoleon Bonaparte seems to be alive and well in those parts, and shows no sign of giving it up. We understand he has set his sights on Syria, so we wish to insure he does not take Acre. Sir Sidney Smith has orders to strengthen the place so the General cannot get by.”

With the extra work involved in getting the ship to sea, there was no longer time for the mids to follow Consuela around, conjugating verbs. He thanked her, and gave her a full purse, contributed to by some of her more prosperous students. He called Mister Webley to his quarters privately.

“Mister Webley, as you know, I have a full wardroom, and just cannot use another lieutenant. However, the part of the world we are going to is a dangerous place, and we may soon need another officer. At any rate, we may well take prizes, and you may elect to take one of them in to port, possibly to England. You have done well on Gibraltar, and I will keep my eye on you in the future. Now, you must take your Midshipman’s togs from your sea chest, and resume your space in the mid’s berth.”

The transport came in, and the Earl filled the Greyhound with all the men he could pack in. Extra beef barrels were carted over to the landing, and loaded on the ships boats to be carried out to the ship. She was now so crowded, it was difficult to find a place to turn around.

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