Hornblower: The Examination for Lieutenant Page #2

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I was merely wondering how many of

the crew

- did the Spanish take from the sea?

- I have no idea.

At the time, my mind was engaged

in more important matters

than arithmetic.

Am I to presume Captain Pellew

that you would have surrendered?

This is neither the time or

the place, sir, to discuss tactics.

Nonsense! We're all men

of the sea here.

- You!

- Yes, sir?

How would you have reacted

to such circumstances?

- I think perhaps

- Come on man, out with it.

I am pleased the Spanish have been

deprived of our supplies,sir

I take my leave, sir.

I fancy you shall go far, young man,

I fancy you shall.

- Algeciras.

- Sir?

A cruel hand dealt by the Almighty

to set a Spanish anchorage

six miles off Gibraltar,

don't you think?

Report, if you please.

Eight ships, I think, sir.

- Nine, with their yards crossed.

- Thank-you.

Captain Pellew, sir.

I believe I might have offended

you earlier.

Yes, Mr. Hornblower?

Might I offer my apologies, sir?

Your apology is noted.

Thank-you, sir.

Let go!

- Mr. Hornblower.

- Sir.

When we next meet,I believe

you will have your commission, sir.

- Sir?

- Well, I presume you are putting yourself forward

for examination for lieutenant.

That is my captain's decision, sir.

The port admiral awaits.

You're much taken with our famous

Captain Foster

and he with you.

He's a truly great man, sir.

To be half the man that he is

would see my life fulfilled.

Careful, Mr. Hornblower.

Such greatness always has its price.

Come.

You wish to see me, sir?

Mr. Hornblower. Yes, I hope

you consider this good news.

- You're ready to take your examination for lieutenant?

- Yes,sir.

Good. Then I shall put you forward

for next month's round.

- I would be honoured, sir.

- Should you do well,

you will already have two

months seniority. Do badly,

and it's back with the midshipmen

for six months at least.

- I understand that, sir.

- Well, you'd better spend

- your spare time in study.

- Yes, sir.

You're on a run, Mr. Bowles.

I do believe your hands are

tied, Mr. Bracegirdle.

No prison's held me yet, sir.

Yes!

Your throw, sir.

The tables are turning.

Hold still lad.

Don't want to waste it.

I see you've taken me at

my word, Mr. Hornblower.

But, could you not find a place

to study below decks?

No sir, I was searching for

some peace and quiet.

Oh yes, of course. I apologize

for disturbing you.

- No sir, I, I didn't mean

- As you were, Mr. Hornblower.

Yes, you'll find time to study,

when these high spirits are dulled.

- Why is that, sir?

- Captain Foster's recent engagement

with our Spanish friends has deprived

the fleet of its regular supplies

leaving me no alternative but

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