Immediately, the British Mediterranean Fleet, centered on 14 battleships, defended the rear with 4 battleships, and divided steam warships into two teams to cover the flanks, forming the most rigorous defensive formation heading northeast.
Ten minutes later, Pikex saw planks floating everywhere on the sea.
These were the wreckage of the earliest "Shield" that lost power.
An escort ship approached, launching small boats to save the crew overboard.
Because he didn't know the location of the French steam warships, Pikex had to leave 3 battleships and 3 escort ships to prevent French people from attacking the rescuing ship, while the main force of the fleet continued forward.
The debris on the sea grew increasingly abundant, and officers continuously arrived at the command room to report to Pikex, "Commander, the rescued sailors said that the 'Golden Headfish' and 'Gravel' have been sunk."
"Report, 'Gravel' confirmed sunk..."
"Commander, 'Serpentinite' has been sunk..."
