July 1801, Plymouth . . . Richard Bolitho's small squadron is still repairing the scars of battle earned at Copenhagen. Now the Admiralty needs Bolitho again. After eight years of war with France, Britain must show her strength and determination and dramatically weaken the French cause. The Admiralty wants an attack. Rear-Admiral Richard Boltho must follow his flag's tradition of victory - even though for the first time in his life he is torn between the demands of public duty and personal need.