An interpreter's killing ended an Egyptian attempt to stand aside

An Egyptian commander initially sent word that he did not intend to attack HMS Asia. Codrington answered by sending a Greek interpreter across to communicate, creating a narrow opportunity to keep that part of the line out of the battle. The interpreter was shot dead while boarding, after which the Egyptian ship joined the fight. Asia and Azov reduced her to a burning wreck within about twenty minutes, showing how quickly failed communication could turn attempted neutrality into destruction.