James shakes his head. He has had Matthew's report, in brief, when Horatio had been taken ashore. From his account, it had appeared Horatio had little time to consider any other action that return fire. But he will have Horatio's side of things, in the fullness of time. Not now, when pain no doubt clouds his recollection.

"I trust you still, as do your men."

They had been more concerned with Horatio that with their own injuries, but James did not need that evidence to prove that the lieutenant was loved by the men who served him.

"I allowed you to go out unprepared, Horatio. The responsibility lies with me, and I will put it to rights as best I can. We will both learn from this, and we will both be expected to give our explanations to the admiral. But by then the foul creatures that did this will be at the end of a rope, God help me."

James clears his throat, jaw relaxing. He had not intended to sound so vehement. It was said now though, and he could not take back the words. He could not make them sound less angry, nor could he take back the implication that he would be leaving.

"I will be setting sail on the next favourable tide."