Most of Nelson's line consists of 74-gun third-rates, making Captain Thomas Thompson's 50-gun HMS Leander the conspicuous exception. Age-of-sail custom usually kept frigates from firing on ships of the line because a return broadside could destroy them. A similar practical restraint kept a fourth-rate from challenging a first-rate, even though it was not a formal immunity. Thompson intends to take a full part in the battle despite Leander's smaller size and armament.
Notable Point · 33:34-35:21
Leander defies the fourth-rate's usual restraint
A 50-gun fourth-rate enters a battle dominated by 74s and refuses the practical restraint that normally kept smaller warships away from first-rates.