The sun rose behind the fleet that morning of the 11th of July 1882, colouring the eastern horizon and spreading a pink haze across the sky. Ejected from Invincible’s crowded bridge, Jack withdrew to the main deck, leaned on the rail, and studied the ship. Straw-hatted seamen were standing at their stations, preparing the guns, quidding - chewing tobacco - and exchanging crude, low-voiced banter.
Invincible’sJack watched the officers pacing the deck, consulting their watches, and conferring in low tones.
The Royal Navy ships sat like grey sea-wolves, with the foreign vessels having hoisted anchor and departed the harbour. Jack focussed on two French warships that remained relatively close to Alexandria.
“The French refused to join us,” General Hook searched for the American corvette. “N
