Set in 1800, Ramage's Signal sends HMS Calypso deeper into French-dominated Mediterranean waters on an Admiralty mission to disrupt the enemy wherever an opportunity appears. Isolated from major British forces, Ramage is expected to confuse French plans by attacking communications, shipping and vulnerable positions rather than waiting for a conventional fleet engagement.
The further Calypso penetrates into hostile waters, the more difficult retreat becomes. Ramage has to judge when aggression will create useful uncertainty and when it will merely leave his frigate surrounded. Pope turns signalling, reconnaissance and local initiative into the foundations of the suspense, showing a style of naval warfare in which a single captain can have strategic effects only if he understands what the enemy believes is happening as well as what is actually taking place.
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