Allison; Taking Control

Chapter 16

“There was a particular instance that occurred but two years ago during your time aboard Praetorian,” Lord Haig began. “She was patrolling the coast off northeastern Nova Scotia near French territory when you made note of a strange occurrence one night. This, I believe, is something you remember well.”

“Yes, my lord,” Allison answered, “We were acting in support of the squadrons which were operating off the south coast of Newfoundland and the mouth of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. They were positioned in response to reports which stated that the French were planning to send a sizable fleet of ships, some containing regular infantry reinforcements, to Quebec. We were to take up a position further southward to scout for enemy movements in that area. One night we had actually sailed far enough to the North along the coast that the Fortress of Louisbourg itself came within sight on the horizon.”

“What did you see there, Lieutenant?” Haig asked.

“It was extremely difficult to make out at firs