Obdam, who was admiral of the Dutch navy, of nearly equal force, declined not the combat.

In the heat of action, when engaged in close fight with the duke of York, Obdam's ship blew up.

This accident much discouraged the Dutch, who fled towards their own coast.

Tromp alone, son of the famous admiral killed during the former war, bravely sustained with his squadron the efforts of the English, and protected the rear of his countrymen.

The vanquished had nineteen ships sunk and taken.