The China Fleet carried an exceptionally valuable cargo but lacked a Royal Navy escort after war resumed. Dance concentrated scarce crews in the largest East Indiamen, altered their appearance, and maneuvered the lean-manned merchantmen with warship discipline. The French commander read four large East Indiamen and a brig as ships of the line supported by a frigate. The merchant captains carried the bluff into a pursuit of the withdrawing French squadron and protected cargo described as valuable enough to support Napoleon's war effort for years.
Chapter · 10:22-14:04
The China Fleet bluffs at Pulo Aura
Nathaniel Dance turns valuable East Indiamen into the appearance of a disciplined Royal Navy squadron and drives off a French force.