Byng's mission was to fight through to Menorca and reinforce its besieged garrison. Gibraltar would not release as many troops as he wanted, but he still had ships and troops with which to attempt the relief. Withdrawing after an inconclusive action exposed him under several Articles of War and damaged the careers of captains who had supported the decision in his council. The court martial sought clemency, but the king refused it amid conflict with the prime minister. Byng retained one privilege of rank: aboard Monarch, he gave the signal for the firing squad by dropping his own handkerchief. Legal rules, professional expectations, and court politics all bore on the fate of a commander who abandoned his assigned objective.
Chapter · 35:45-38:08
Why John Byng's withdrawal ended in execution
John Byng's court-martial and execution reflected both the legal demand to do one's utmost and a professional expectation that commanders should exploit the chances their forces still possessed.