Beresford landed men to represent ships in a manoeuvring exercise while serving in the Mediterranean Fleet. Fisher demanded an explanation because half the ship's company was ashore when the ship needed to prepare for sailing the next day. Practising the manoeuvres had a purpose, but it competed with immediate readiness requirements. Beresford also resented taking orders from an officer of lower social standing, adding personal hostility to the operational disagreement.
Notable Point · 1:11:05-1:15:29
A fleet rehearsal ashore provokes Fisher
Beresford's attempt to rehearse fleet manoeuvres ashore conflicted with preparations for sailing in the Mediterranean Fleet.