No specific dates are given in the novel and the premise that the British had quit the Mediterranean is historical licence. It occurs after the failed French campaign in Egypt and Syria (ending 2 September 1801) but before the Treaty of Amiens (27 March 1802). Britain captured Menorca in 1798 but returned it to Spain in 1802 following the Treaty of Amiens. Malta was captured by the British (4 September 1800) and ultimately became a British Dominion. Malta was to be evacuated by the British under the terms of the Amiens treaty; however, Britain ultimately retained Malta.