"We're even with the inshore ships, sir!" a voice called hoarsely.
"We've got the French between us, then." Though he was a small man, there was a ring of authority in the voice of the man on the bridge.
"There's the Orient, sir!"
"One of ours has gone aground!"
"She'll mark the shoal for the rest of the fleet," the little man replied calmly. "Ready, Mr. Creston!"
"What's he think he's doing?" the captain's boy whispered.
"Quiet, lad," a peg-legged sailor said softly. "Admiral Nelson will see us through. You'll have your share of action afore mornin', mate!"
The darkness was split by faraway flashes of light. Instantly, there was returning cannon fire that caused the ship to shudder and groan. The Battle of Aboukir Bay had begun....
The red flashers above the door winked their message.
"Damn!" Mrs. Briggs said, switching off.