When Norrington presented the heart to Beckett, Cutler was surprisingly pleased; but as with all men like Beckett with ambitions as big as the world – he was never pleased with anything for long. And so after James was cleaned up and Beckett saw the proud and elegant James as he had once been it pleased Cutler. He offered Norrington a choice; an addendum to their initial deal:
"I am willing to make you an admiral, James Norrington, but for this elevation in station you must make a choice: you can spend your days under my command and have your nights to yourself or you can spend your days under your own command, but all your nights shall belong to me."
"Why the choice, Lord Beckett? What would have been your requirement afore?"
"All your days would belong to me and your nights as well. Unfortunately, there is some misconception regarding my reputation; people believe me to be a cruel man. This is simply not the case and thus, the choice is yours."
At the cold tingle of adrenalin in his blood, James knew exactly what Cutler meant. What he did not know was what command under Cutler would be like in the day. It would have been much easier for James to have been commanded – he knew how to follow orders – but when presented with such a choice where he could make a mistake – Norrington was terrified.
"How long until I have to decide, My Lord?"
"A smart man you are, James Norrington, and I knew it to be so. You have five days. Choose wisely."
For five days James Norrington observed and analyzed. He saw the extent of Cutler Beckett's machinations; he came to a conclusion.
(To think T&T would have us believe he had no choice at all!)