NERAL ORDER.

As it is very probable the enemy may not be formed in regular
order on the approach of the squadron under my command, I may in
that case deem it most expedient to attack them by separate
divisions; in which case, the commanders of divisions are
strictly enjoined to keep their ships in the closest order
possible, and on no account whatever to risk the separation of
one of their ships. The captains of the ships will see the
necessity of strictly attending to close order: and, should they
compel any of the enemy's ships to strike their colours, they
are at liberty to judge and act accordingly, whether or not it
may be most advisable to cut away their masts and bowsprits;
with this special observance, namely, that the destruction of
the enemy's armament is the sole object. The ships of the enemy
are, therefore, to be taken possession of by an officer and one
boat's crew only, in order that the British ships may be enabled
to continue the attack, and preserve their stations.

The commanders of divisions are to observe that no consideration
is to induce them to separate in pursuing the enemy, unless by
signal from me, so as to be unable to form a speedy junction
with me; and the ships are to be kept in that order that the
whole squadron may act as a single ship. When I make the signal
No. 16, the commanders of divisions are to lead their separate
squadrons, and they are to accompany the signal they may think
proper to make with the appropriate triangular flag, viz. Sir
James Saumarez will hoist the triangular flag, white with a red
stripe, significant of the van squadron under the commander in
the second post; Captain Troubridge will hoist the triangular
blue flag, significant of the rear squadron under the commander
in the third post; and whenever I mean to address the centre
squadron only, I shall accompany the signal with the triangular
red flag, significant of the centre squadron under the
commander-in-chief.

2d. Div.
1st. Div. red. white with red stripe. 3d. Div. blue.

Vanguard. Orion. Culloden.
Minotaur. Goliath. Theseus.
Leander. Majestic. Alexander.
Audacious. Bellerophon. Swiftsure.
Defence.