[112] He made some preparations for defending Limerick, repaired the fortifications, and sent out parties to bring in provisions.

The country, many miles round, was swept bare by these detachments, and a considerable quantity of cattle and fodder was collected within the walls.

There was also a large stock of biscuit imported from France.
The infantry assembled at Limerick were about fifteen thousand men.
The Irish horse and dragoons, three or four thousand in number, were encamped on the Clare side of the Shannon.

The communication between their camp and the city was maintained by means of a bridge called the Thomond Bridge, which was protected by a fort.

These means of defence were not contemptible.