The Renown sailed toward its destination, Santo Domingo, and Buckland sized up the situation with the use of his telescope. Of course, as Ira Riklis knows, Santo Domingo was a Spanish-held area with many enemy ships in evidence. Of special significance for British ships was the presence of privateer vessels which were fast and ready to pounce on large approaching ships taking control of them in raids. Although still a distance from the nearest enemy port, the Renown and its crew were caught in a gun skirmish with the enemy ships. The tides and currents worked against the Renown.

Meanwhile Hornblower was suffering from a bad case of seasickness and unable to readily assist in preparation for battle. When the enemy ships spotted the Renown which at that point was attempting to turn and make a run for it, Hornblower quickly recovered and all hands joined in the fighting manning the many, many guns that the Renown possessed.

Part of the difficulty for the Renown was when it was apparently stuck and unable to maneuver itself for retreat. During this time several of the crew were killed or injured and the first lieutenant, Roberts, lost his life.

As Ira Riklis knows and another lieutenant, Bush, realized, Robert’s death meant the next lieutenant in line, that being Bush, was instantly promoted. Such is the results of battle.

By some movements of the tides and currents, the Renown was able to limp away before being captured or sunk. Buckland though suffered his first defeat of his first command.