Historical context changed the standard by which Calder's victory was judged. Capturing two ships of the line from a superior force might have earned major honors in the 1780s, but the Royal Navy of 1805 expected commanders to press for three or four prizes and decisive strategic effect. HMS Malta took both captured ships after being surrounded, which made the achievement look more like a subordinate's initiative than the product of Calder's direction. If Calder had to attend the court martial, he could have returned in a frigate and left Prince of Wales with the fleet. Taking the 98-gun ship home instead weakened his defense by placing personal honor ahead of the force he had described as threatened.
Notable Point · 56:08-57:58
Finisterre and the 1805 victory standard
A result that might have won honors in the 1780s looked inadequate beside the Royal Navy's aggressive expectations in 1805.