….During The Napoleonic Wars
"Officers of the Royal Navy at the turn of the 19th century were expected to live charmed and genteel lives. This was reflected in almost all aspects of their life, from showing a stern and commanding face at all times when in battle, to eating better than the common sailor.
An example of how these men would have eaten can be seen on HMS Seahorse, a 38 Gun Frigate. Of her 270 men complement, there would have been about 18 Gentlemen, comprised of Commissioned Officers, Warrants, and Midshipmen. These were made up of 10 Midshipmen and Master's Mates, 3 Lieutenants, 2 Officers of the Marines, 1 Surgeon, 1 Master, and 1 Captain.
According to the Admiralty, all meals were purely egalitarian, each man receiving the same ration. In practice, an officer's dining habits were highly stratified based on rank, class, and wealth…"
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