_ 303 _ If these sight a fleet, they should warn you, so that you can leave the port where you are and put to see, where you will be able to do what is necessary depending on the might and strength of whatever comes upon you. If the catures return from Aden and tell you that there are few ships in the neighbourhood of Aden, so that you can engage them in combat, go in that direction, always sending a few small ships ahead to spy out the land, capes and bays. When you approach the city, if you find an enemy fleet of a kind which you can engage in conflict, do so, using all your ships together, and ordering your men to call during the battle on St. James and St. Thomas. Having given victory to our Lord Master, you should enter the port and do as describe above. Item: Every time it is suggested that you should go somewhere new or the prospect arises of fighting, take council with all the captains and nobles in the fleet, and listen to what they say, and even if the matter appears to you as clear as the midday sun, nevertheless do not fail to consult them all; and whatever they agree, have a document drawn up which they should all sign. Item: However the King signs and swears the contracts, you will arrange a group of people under your orders to stay
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTg0NzAy