Cawdor takes command and restores the defense's logistics

Once in command, Cawdor led the combined force back toward Fishguard instead of continuing Knox's withdrawal. His column and Loft's sailors brought ammunition for the guns. A French detachment prepared an ambush in the hedged lanes, but Cawdor turned back as light failed and the cold increased. He had food and supplies while the French lacked them, so time favored waiting in Fishguard. That decision also spared his column an attack through ground the French were preparing to exploit.