Villaret-Joyeuse re-formed a squadron and brought it back toward HMS Queen and the disabled ships between the fleets. Howe assembled Queen Charlotte, Royal Sovereign, Valiant, Leviathan, Barfleur, and Thunderer to cover Queen. After exchanging fire at a distance, Villaret abandoned the attack and recovered disabled French ships before the British could take them. Only eleven British and twelve French ships remained capable of battle, limiting both commanders' options.
Chapter · 2:44:45-2:47:17
Villaret returns for his disabled ships
The French admiral re-formed a fighting line and tried to recover disabled ships, forcing Howe to organize a defensive squadron around the British prizes.