Duncan's attempted line-breaking attack at Camperdown

Duncan intended each British ship to pass through the Dutch line between two opponents. The plan adapted Lord Howe's maneuvers at the Glorious First of June three years earlier, seeking an advantage likened to crossing the T. De Winter's compact Dutch formation made this difficult to execute. When the Dutch attempted to withdraw toward land, Duncan insisted on bringing them to action. Clear signals then ordered British captains to engage as they arrived and directed the British van against the Dutch rear. The sequence follows the adjustment of a tactical plan when the enemy's formation prevented its intended execution.