Single-ship duels existed in War of 1812 naval culture, yet Hillyar was already an accomplished commodore with no need to accept Porter's preferred terms. He continued the blockade instead of treating Essex as an opportunity for personal prestige. Nereus and Tagus were approaching, and reports that a large American frigate might join Porter prompted Dixon to send Briton as well. Porter believed reinforcements would arrive within days or a week, although Nereus and Tagus did not arrive until 13 April. The expected increase in British strength put pressure on him to leave.
Notable Point · 1:38:53-1:42:55
Hillyar refused Porter's duel while reinforcements closed in
A single-ship challenge offered Porter glory, but Hillyar had no reason to abandon a blockade that would soon include several more frigates.