Marlborough's duel becomes a three-ship collision

Marlborough became entangled with Impétueux as the French ship neared surrender. Mucius then emerged from the smoke and collided with both ships, leaving all three exchanging fire at close range. Captain George Cranfield Berkeley retired below with serious wounds, and Lieutenant John Monckton took command and signalled for help. A supporting frigate towed Marlborough clear, while Phaeton later supported the dismasted Defence and answered fire from Impétueux. The original line break had dissolved into a close struggle governed by collisions, command succession, and frigate support.