We may select a few instances from this period, before coming to what immediately preceded the great day: "Wednesday, 11th (September, 1793) a.m.Hoisted a broad pennant by order of Lord Howe, Capt.
Pasley being appointed a commodore of the fleet.

Weighed and anchored in our station in Torbay.
"Monday, November 18th.* (* See note below.) Saw nine or ten sail, seemingly large ships, standing towards us.

The admiral made the Russell and Defence signals to chase, also the Audacious; and soon after ours.

By this time the strange ships had brought to, hull down, to windward, seemingly in some confusion.

The Ganges' signal was also made to chase.
At 9 the Admiral made the sign for the strange fleet being an enemy, and for our sternmost ships to make more sail.