The harbour was in chaos. Crowds of frightened Europeans, mainly Italian and Greek but with a sprinkling of other nationalities, clamoured for sanctuary on the ships lying offshore. Small boats plied back and forward, with seamen busy at the oars and youthful officers shouting sharp commands. The refugees looked over their shoulders as if expecting an attack by a thousand Egyptians, while others held their women close to them. A harassed-looking Royal Navy lieutenant stood on the quayside, trying to instil some order, while a body of bluejackets – Royal Naval seamen – good-humouredly managed the crowd.
“Ahoy! Superb!” Lieutenant Balfour bellowed, waving to one of the boats taking off the refugees. “This way!” He faced Jack. “We’ll have you safe on board in minutes, Colonel,” he said cheer
