Sir Chabidun's defeat was hardly undeserved, because the Austrian Empire had more than one reconnaissance vessel, and more than one patrol.
That was right—General Robert had risked his life to hold back no more than a single patrol.
At least, there had initially been only one patrol on the scene. Under cover of night, neither side had any idea how many ships the other possessed, much less whether those ships were battleships or cruisers.
Sir Chabidun's main force was still quite formidable, which was why it had managed to break through the defenses and enter the Mediterranean.
Yet he had still underestimated the speed of the Austrian Imperial Navy. Even though every British Army vessel was now steam-powered, they still could not escape the Austrian Imperial Navy's pursuit.
Only now did Sir Chabidun discover just how vast the gap between them was. Even so, the British Navy still had plenty of fighting spirit.
Even knowing defeat was inevitable, the British New Mediterranean Fleet did not choose to surrender. They would never hand over their ships, not even at the cost of their lives.
"Britannia rules the waves! We will never surrender!"
In truth, fleeing without a fight had never been his choice. But unfortunately, he could only obey the politicians' orders, abandon his comrades, and return to Britain in the most humiliating manner possible.
Sir Chabidun even envied Dundas somewhat. At the very least, the latter had been able to die openly and honorably in battle.
But at this point, Sir Chabidun could no longer care about such things. The politicians' reckless command was the true culprit behind this tragedy, and now he would fulfill his duty and his oath.
What British commanders who had still not chosen to leave at this point lacked courage and honor? The moment the