Emma and Nelson had met briefly five years before but it was when they met in Naples in 1798 following his victory at The Battle of the Nile that they began to fall in love. In the heady atmosphere of a lavish Bourbon court, where both held significant influence, their regard for each other grew apace as chaos engulfed the kingdom. Forced to evacuate the royal family to Sicily Nelson began to fall seriously in love with Emma when he witnessed her strength and courage in the violent storm that hit Nelson's squadron during the crossing.

In Palermo Emma and Nelson spent more and more time together and gossip was soon tarnishing the hero's reputation. By the time Nelson and the Hamilton's embarked on a somewhat bizarre tour of the courts and capitals of Europe few had not heard about the notorious affair of the one armed admiral and the ambassador's wife. Yet everywhere he went Nelson was mobbed by the populace and crowds fought to catch a glimpse of him and 'Milady Emma' whose impact on European fashion was such that ladies even wore copies of the medal she wore for helping the people of Malta.

But despite the parties and celebrations there was one thing that could not be avoided. As they progressed towards England a woman awaited them who had seen these events unfold from afar. Lady Nelson had seen the unforgiving satirical prints, the 'Nelson merchandise' that featured Emma as a fixture on his arm. Now she would get to meet her rival in person.

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