John Jervis, Admiral St Vincent, keeps Toulon blockaded after the expedition escapes. He sends Nelson in pursuit with a squadron and dispatches further ships to reinforce him. The blockade prevents additional French warships and supplies from following Napoleon. This leaves the expedition short of support even if Nelson fails to win a battle, while a British victory would trap the army in Egypt.
Notable Point · 14:21-15:28
St Vincent holds Toulon while Nelson hunts
St Vincent maintains the blockade at Toulon while Nelson pursues the expedition, cutting off supplies even before a decisive battle.