The HMS ‘Crab’ 6 a small but fast schooner makes port in Bermuda, just after sunset, from Gibraltor. Young Lieutenant Raine in command, spy glass in hand looked at the flagship. He had been unhappy the whole trip with a post captain occupying his cabin and watching his every move. He noted other officers returning to their ships from the flagship. Well I’ve missed supper he thought as he saw several senior officers walking the deck pipe or cigar in hand. The admiral was known to set a good table and an officer fresh from Europe could count on an invite to tell the latest news over dinner “Good evening” he said, good riddance he thought as Captain Vickery came on deck and awaited the launching of the vessels longboat.

Capt. Vickery presented his compliments to Sir Harold aboard the ‘Buffonia’ at the earliest opportunity, presenting any dispatches he has been entrusted with. “A glass of wine Captain, tell me the news from home.”He will inquire as to the state of seaworthiness of the ‘Jana,’ in terms of material and manpower, and inquire as to the likelihood of having his needs fulfilled. Medicus replied, “The ship needs a crew as she only has an anchor watch, virtually no stores, the hull is sound and the rigging well maintained. The harbor should have everything you need its just a matter of tracking it down and... he was interupted by the door banging open and the Royal Marine orderly being pushed out of the way. The flag lieutent had the dispatches Captain Vickery had delivered, “Move blast you”

Flag Leftenant Harris entered, “Yes Leftenant” you need to see this now sir.” Admiral Medicus looked up. “What can’t wait?” Harris “A privateer/pirate has captured the ‘Lady Jane’ sir” Medicus looked annoyed, “and” Harris continued, “she was carrying Lord Rupert’s daughter Sarah.” Medicus positively scoweled as he said, “the same idiot who commands the garrison on this island?” Harris thought, they always kill the messenger, “yes sir, she’s being held on the island of Grenada and being held for 500 pounds sterling in ransom.” Medicus replied, “Good God, what’s ready to sail? make the signal all Captains.”

“Captain Vickery please remain on board, we have a situation.”