De Thermes could no longer avoid the conflict thus resolutely forced upon him.

Courage was now his only.
counsellor.

Being not materially outnumbered by his adversaries, he had, at least, an even chance of cutting his way through all obstacles, and of saving his army and his treasure.

The sea was on his right hand, the Aa behind him, the enemy in front.

He piled his baggage and wagons so as to form a barricade upon his left, and placed his artillery, consisting of four culverines and three falconeta, in front.