The headmost of the French fleet were apparently hove to, but made no effort to relieve their comrade.

At this time our maincap was seen to be so badly sprung as to oblige us to take in the main topsail; the larboard topsail sheet block was likewise shot away.

Got down the top-gallant yard and mast, and, the ship being scarcely under command, we made the signal for inability.

Soon after the Admiral called us by signal into his wake.
The enemy's rear ship about 9 had his mizzenmast gone and he bore down towards us, the Russell and Thunderer striking close to his weather quarter and lee bow, keeping up a severe fire, but he scarcely returned a shot.

Having got clear of them he continued coming down on us, apparently with the intention of striking to our flag, but firing a shot now and then.