This accident was a seasonable warning to D'Aulney, who then lay near the mouth of the river, waiting for La Tour's return; but, being apprized of his reinforcement, he prudently retreated from the unequal conflict.

With the caution of experience, he successfully avoided La Tour's track; and the latter, who felt already sure of his prey, had at last the vexation to discover him, at a safe distance, and when the wind and tide rendered pursuit impossible.

A thick fog, which soon began to rise, entirely separated them; and approaching night rendered it expedient to anchor, until the return of day.

A report of M.
d'Aulney's menaced attack on the fort had already reached La Tour, though it was too confused to convey much information, or relieve his extreme anxiety.

But he endured the suspense far better than his lieutenant, who made no attempt to conceal his vexation at the necessary delay.