Forester's fictional character Horatio Hornblower's is placed command of the Royal Yacht Augusta during a nautical expedition for King George III and his entourage, for the benefit of the King's health.
Forester portrays the King being fearful of brutal doctors, and Hornblower feeling sympathy for him.
A far larger American vessel sights and chases the yacht, and there is an exchange of fire that damages the Augusta and prevents her escape.
Hornblower is faced with surrender and the capture of the King by the Americans, but is saved by the arrival of the escort ship.
Hornblower notices that the excitement and distraction seems to trigger an improvement in the King's condition.