On the sea, the Combined Fleet had daringly completed its mission of firepower distraction. To avoid unnecessary casualties, Commander Major General Sisneros ordered a retreat beyond the effective range of the port's cannons.
Just as several warships had adjusted their sails, he suddenly heard silence from the direction of the batteries.
Sisneros, somewhat perplexed, went to the bow deck of the "Advance" and pulled out his telescope. He immediately saw a flag with a blue and purple base and an Iris fluttering atop the battery.
"These guys are too fast, aren't they?" he exclaimed in surprise to his adjutant, "Have they been landing for an hour?"
The adjutant checked his watch and shook his head:
"Not yet, Your Excellency. Only 48 minutes have passed."
A twitch appeared at the corner of Sisneros's eye. Just marching from the shore to that battery would probably take over half an hour. Had Bertier led his soldiers on a run directly into the pirate's battery?!