Chapters 19, 20, and 21 Summary

The blockade continues into the fall season—it has been six months since Hornblower was at Plymouth. Life is monotonous, interrupted only by occasional insect infestations and letters from home. When newspapers arrive detailing the incident of shellfire, Bush is indignant and nearly infuriated that Hornblower's action to snuff the fuse is not mentioned. Hornblower ignores the omission and reminds Bush that they are soldiers, no actresses. Hornblower is then summoned to meet with Cornwallis. Cornwallis notes that the secret clauses of the Treaty of San Ildefonso, between Spain and France, have recently been disclosed. Spain is expected to shortly declare war on England. Meanwhile a Spanish treasure fleet is approaching from South America—it must be intercepted and diverted—or captured. Cornwallis notes that Hornblower has never had an opportunity for prize money; here is an undreamed...