In the book immediately prior to this one, titled Command Decision, Jim Brady, now able-seaman after bucking a four-ringed captain, saw for the first time, to his horror, his new ship. ("New" is a most kindly euphemism.) In Pelican he met her captain, a chap named Holland; her first lieutenant, Matheson; and a dark wild Irishman named O'Connel — all of whom you probably have already met yourselves.

During an air attack on the British Mediterranean Fleet in Alexandria Brady learned that, as with a book and its cover, you don't judge a ship by its rust. As we left Pelican last time, Captain Moore, Leader of the Tenth Destroyer Flotilla has just called for his captains.

It was an urgent summons. Dutchy Holland senses trouble. Dutchy is very good at this, and his premonitions do not let him down this time.