The very day was named.

In order that there might be no want either of seamen or of vessels for the intended expedition, all maritime trade, all privateering was, for a time, interdicted by a royal mandate.

[249] Three hundred transports were collected near the spot where the troops were to embark.

It was hoped that all would be ready early in the spring, before the English ships were half rigged or half manned, and before a single Dutch man of war was in the Channel.
[250] James had indeed persuaded himself that, even if the English fleet should fall in with him, it would not oppose him.

He imagined that he was personally a favourite with the mariners of all ranks.