The historical book of Vladimir Shigin is dedicated to the Mediterranean expedition of the Russian fleet in 1769-1774, the climax of which was a brilliant victory in the battle of Chesme (1770). In addition to the actions of our fleet in the Mediterranean, the author gives exciting descriptions of the origin and first victories of the young Black Sea Fleet, the victorious battles of the Russian army at Ryaboy Mogile, Larga and Cahul. Among the heroes of the book are Empress Catherine II, Count Alexei Orlov, Admirals Spiridov and Greig, Field Marshal Rumyantsev and Chesma's hero Lieutenant Ilyin.