He convinces the Novice to try and bribe Billy into joining a mutiny. But Billy refuses, and believes that he will be rewarded for his loyalty, despite Dansker's warning that Claggart is up to something. Act Two Several days have passed. Claggart is trying to talk to the Captain when someone spots a French ship off the starboard bow. Everyone excitedly prepares for battle, but the wind won't oblige and the enemy remains out of range.
Mist settles in, and the attack is called off.
Claggart gets the Captain's attention again, and accuses Billy of offering the Novice gold to mutiny. Vere cannot believe it, but martial law demands that he interview the accused in the accuser's presence. Later, in Vere's cabin, Claggart repeats the charge. The Captain must hold a court martial immediately, his only option under the Articles of War. Billy pleads with Vere to save him, but he is sentenced to death.