Trafalgar's Lost Hero

Book excerpt: "This surprising treat for lovers of naval history and real-life adventure traces Collingwood's exploits from his harsh coming of age at sea through his storied service in the American Revolution to the long and bitter struggle with Napoleon. Collingwood emerges as a wily and daring commander who was at his steely-eyed best when outgunned by the enemy. His coolness under fire is revealed in lively accounts of his rescuing Nelson from destruction and the entrapment of a 26-ship enemy fleet with a tiny, four-vessel squadron. At Trafalgar, he was seen calmly munching an apple as he led his squadron, guns blazing, into furious battle. It was Collingwood, himself devastated by the loss, who delivered the news of Nelson's death to a nation stunned by the tragic price of victory.".