[83] During some weeks the supplies were impatiently expected.

At last, Tyrconnel was forced to shut himself up; for, whenever he appeared in public, the soldiers ran after him clamouring for food.

Even the beef and mutton, which, half raw, half burned, without vegetables, without salt, had hitherto supported the army, had become scarce; and the common men were on rations of horseflesh when the promised sails were seen in the mouth of the Shannon.

[84] A distinguished French general, named Saint Ruth, was on board with his staff.

He brought a commission which appointed him commander in chief of the Irish army.