It was cowardly perhaps to have wanted to avoid this. Not forever. Not even for a day, but just until he could be certain that Horatio's recovery was guaranteed. He had known men to come around and then to die because of bad news.

He would not lie to Horatio. He could not, in good conscious do such a thing. But perhaps he could spare him some pain and distress. That was his duty.

"She took heavy damage. She has lost a mast, much of her sail and rigging. I understand there is a great deal of water below decks. But we will save her if we can. She brought you home."

And for that James would do all he could to salvage her. He had already some idea that the spare mast from Interceptor could be made good. She would have to be hauled out the water, no doubt, but it might be possible.

"Your Mr Matthews will receive a commendation you can be sure. Without him I would have neither you, nor the ship, nor what crew remains."

His free hand moved, to the lieutenant's brow and brushed his hair from his face.

"This is not your doing, Horatio. I should not have sent a man inexperienced with pirates out alone. The guilt is mine."