Nelson appeared near Barcelona to suggest that he was west of Toulon, then moved east in the hope of drawing Villeneuve towards him. Villeneuve learned of the reported British position after putting to sea and took a different route. Nelson then had to check Mediterranean allies and possible French objectives, including another move towards Egypt or India. After finding no sign of Villeneuve in the Mediterranean, Nelson went to check Gibraltar.
Chapter · 1:55:24-1:57:02
How Nelson's own deception lost Villeneuve
Follow the Mediterranean feint that sent Villeneuve away from Nelson and forced a wider search.