But Louis, alarmed at finding that it was likely William would be freed from his troubles at home, and be at liberty to give his whole attention to the war on the Continent, sent fresh promises of large and speedy aid; and despatched General Saint Ruth to take the command in Ireland, in place of Lauzun, who had returned to France.
This appointment caused fresh discontent among the Irish.

Their cause had already been well-nigh ruined by the interference and incapacity of the French generals, and, on the retirement of Lauzun, they had confidently expected that Sarsfield would be appointed commander-in-chief, and that henceforth there would be unity of design in their operations.

Saint Ruth was accompanied by a large number of young French officers, whose demeanour still further widened the breach between the French and Irish.
Saint Ruth at once inspected the army, now concentrated between Limerick and Athlone.

Except that there was a great deficiency in horses for the cavalry, the army was greatly improved in discipline and appearance since the battle of the Boyne, for both officers, petty officers, and men had learned their duties.

The army had passed the winter in comfortable quarters, and had been well supplied with food.
The difficulty was to find horses.