When the British appeared, Brueys chose a conference rather than immediate decentralized preparation. Many sailors remained ashore, and men had to be moved from frigates into the ships of the line. By the time escape was considered, Blanquet judged that the crews could not simultaneously set sail and fight the guns. The fleet's defeat in readiness was therefore visible before Nelson's leading ships opened fire.
Chapter · 1:30:28-1:34:07
A command conference leaves French ships unready
Brueys gathered commanders aboard L'Orient and recalled dispersed shore parties too late, leaving ships unable both to make sail and fully man their guns.