He determined, therefore, to make one more effort before retiring.
He had, throughout the siege, been in communication with several Irish officers of high rank, and especially with General Clifford, who commanded the cavalry posted on the river opposite to his camp.

These officers were as desirous as he was of bringing the war to an end, for they foresaw that if, after the arrival of the French, they succeeded in driving the English out of the country, Ireland would simply become a dependency of France, and they preferred the English connection to this.
Ginckle determined to try, again, the same feint which had succeeded at Athlone.

The workmen were kept busy repairing the works at Kilmallock, and preparing that place for the reception of the army.

The greater portion of the baggage, and a regiment of Danes, were sent forward to that town.

The batteries ceased firing, and the cannon were dismounted at several points, and the Irish were persuaded that the siege was about to be abandoned.
Meanwhile, Ginckle was busy collecting boats, and preparing a bridge across to a small island, which lay not far from the Clare side of the river.