Bellerophon was too damaged to maneuver when Captain Hope called Latona into the battle line for assistance. The frigate placed itself between French ships and the disabled seventy-four, fired, and towed Bellerophon clear without recording a casualty. Phaeton later answered Defence's request for support and exchanged broadsides while helping shield another dismasted ship. These actions show that frigates were not passive spectators: communications, towing, and selective gunfire helped preserve capital ships after the line dissolved into a melee.
Notable Point · 2:04:15-2:10:39
Frigates rescue ships inside the battle line
Latona and Phaeton entered dangerous waters to tow or protect disabled ships of the line, showing the fleet's support vessels at work under fire.