The French admiral doubtless had instructions similar to those of the French minister, and he probably reasoned that France had nothing to gain by the fall of New York, which might have led to peace between America and England, and left the latter free to turn all her power against his own country.

Less than that would have been enough to decide his wavering mind as to risking his fleet over the bar.
Howe was more fortunate than D'Estaing, in having no divided purposes.
Having escaped from Philadelphia and saved New York by his diligence, he had in store the further honor of saving Rhode Island by the like rapid movements.

Scattered ships-of-war from a fleet despatched from England now began to arrive.

On the 28th of July Howe was informed that the French fleet, which had disappeared to the southward, had been seen heading for Rhode Island.

In four days his fleet was ready for sea, but owing to contrary winds did not reach Point Judith till the 9th of August.