John Jervis needed more force commanders than his available admirals could supply, so he elevated proven captains such as Nelson to commodore. Nelson led a small force along the French and Italian coasts and captured seven convoy vessels on 31 May 1796. He nevertheless remained frustrated by the lack of larger targets. The passage reminds viewers that senior cruising command in this period was an exercise in finance as well as naval power because officers and crews expected worthwhile prizes.
Notable Point · 32:31-33:45
Commodore command still depended on worthwhile prizes
John Jervis used Nelson as a commodore on the French and Italian coasts, where command responsibility and prize incentives remained inseparable.