Such an appeal might possibly avert a conflict.

If a conflict took place, one English commander would be opposed to another; nor would the pride of the islanders be wounded by learning that Dartmouth had been compelled to strike to Herbert.

[503] Happily William's precautions were not necessary.

Soon after midday he passed the Straits.

His fleet spread to within a league of Dover on the north and of Calais on the south.