George Byng turns mentorship into institutional continuity

Byng carried lessons from service as Russell's flag captain into senior command and Admiralty office. His victory at Cape Passaro virtually destroyed or captured the Spanish battle line present and made naval force decisive in the War of the Quadruple Alliance. He also survived changes of government and monarchy, reinforcing the gradual emergence of professional continuity. By keeping the fleet ready faster than rivals could mobilize, Byng made the threat of a naval deployment useful to diplomacy before combat began.