The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #82430 Message #1512112
Posted By: The Walrus
28-Jun-05 - 09:05 PM
Thread Name: Lyr Req: Songs for Trafalgar Night
Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Songs for Trafalgar Night
"...That many of the French/ Spanish? were ill and had been at sea for some time..."
I think the point was that, because of the close blockade (and Napoleon's lack of interest in matters maritime), a large proportion of the French fleet HADN'T been to sea in some time (I believe the Spanish may have had got more sea time in).
As I recall, the "Trafalgar Campaign" began with a co-ordinated Franco-Spanish break out during bad weather and a race West into the Atlantic with a 'U' turn to escape pursuit, bringing the back to Southern Spain.
"...That Nelson and his men were "up for it" and more than ready..."
For the crews of Men o'War on blockade, any break in routine would be welcome, one that gave them the possibility of prize money (or if the enemy sank, at least 'head money'), doubly so.
W