Jack, I must tell you in your private ear that we have some allies ashore, rather curious allies, I admit, who look after these operations: I hope and trust that you will see many another yard burnt or burning before we reach Durazzo. I am aware that this is not your kind of war, brother: it is not glorious. Yet as you see, it is effective.' 'Do not take me for a bloody-minded man, Stephen, a death-or-glory swashbuckling cove. Believe me, I had rather see a first-rate burnt to the water-line than a ship's boy killed or mutilated.
In this passage, a character conveys a private message to Jack, revealing the presence of unusual allies assisting in their operations. The speaker expresses hope that they will witness further destruction before reaching their destination. He acknowledges that the nature of this conflict may not align with Jack's ideals of war, which often emphasize glory and honor, but emphasizes its effectiveness as a strategy.
Furthermore, the speaker clarifies that he is not ruthless or overtly aggressive. He expresses a preference for seeing ships destroyed rather than enduring any harm to young sailors, indicating a deep compassion and humanity. This sentiment underscores the complex moral dilemmas faced by those involved in war, balancing tactical decisions against human life and ethical considerations.
