Nelson continued: "In fact, the current position of the Toulon Fleet is extremely disadvantageous.
"Once the supplies in Genoa are depleted, they will be forced to engage us in a decisive battle.
"By then, we can choose the battlefield at our leisure and position our formation in advance.
"And if they are defeated—which is almost inevitable—they will have no choice but to flee south into Bizerte Port.
"We can then conveniently blockade the port, leaving the French with no warships available along their southeastern coast.
"Our land forces could even seize Port of Toulon."
"I completely agree with your assessment." Lord Hood nodded, then turned to the staff officer: "Order the fleet to expand toward Sardinia, to prevent the French from slipping past us on the flank."
...
Southwest of the Mediterranean Sea.
Sicily Sea Area.
