The English, having formed to windward on the same tack as the French, made their attack in the then usual way, and with the usual results.

The seven English ships were ordered to keep away together for the French eight, and the four leading ships, including the admiral's, came into action handsomely; the last three, whether by their own fault or not, were late in doing so, but it will be remembered that this was almost always the case in such attacks.

The French commodore, seeing this interval between the van and the rear, formed the plan of separating them, and made signal to wear together, but in his impatience did not wait for an answer.
Putting his own helm up, he wore round, and was followed in succession by the rear ships, while the van stood on.

The English admiral, who had good reason to know, gives D'Ache more credit than the French writers, for he describes this movement thus:-- "At half-past four P.M.the rear of the French line had drawn pretty close up to their flag-ship.

Our three rear ships were signalled to engage closer.