Below is the description for 'signal for close action' taken from the 2nd edition (1993). This are closely related to the later 'Signal Close Action, Fast Play', but trade complexity/depth for speed.Signal Close Action has been designed for sailing navy wargamers who require a set of rules which accurately reflect the era in which they are set. In the Napoleonic period, the difficulties an admiral faced were considerable. His possible courses of action were governed by the technology of the time, the wind, weather, ships condition, and of course the ability of the admiral himself and that of his captains and ships companies.Fundamental to the rules is the Ability Chart which requires only 1 throw of dice and governs the core game (except Weather) as well as other options. Note: When for example movement section is referred to in the rules, this relates to the movement section of the Ability Chart. - BoardGameGeek