He had, it is said, repeatedly remonstrated against the inaction of the armament.

He now eagerly volunteered to take the first risk of succouring his fellow citizens; and his offer was accepted.

Andrew Douglas, master of the Phoenix, who had on board a great quantity of meal from Scotland, was willing to share the danger and the honour.
The two merchantmen were to be escorted by the Dartmouth frigate of thirty-six guns, commanded by Captain John Leake, afterwards an admiral of great fame.
It was the thirtieth of July.

The sun had just set: the evening sermon in the cathedral was over; and the heartbroken congregation had separated, when the sentinels on the tower saw the sails of three vessels coming up the Foyle.

Soon there was a stir in the Irish camp.
The besiegers were on the alert for miles along both shores.