The whole army was to be commanded by Marshal Bellefonds.
A noble fleet of about eighty ships of the line was to convoy this force to the shores of England.

In the dockyards both of Brittany and of Provence immense preparations were made.

Four and forty men of war, some of which were among the finest that had ever been built, were assembled in the harbour of Brest under Tourville.

The Count of Estrees, with thirty-five more, was to sail from Toulon.

Ushant was fixed for the place of rendezvous.