By now the wanton English breeze had changed again and a high sea was running. De Ruyter gave the order to reef in topsails.
They were almost within range of the Allied Fleet, who had now drawn themselves up into line of battle, divided into three squadrons: two English, the first of the Red, commanded by the Lord High Admiral of England, James of York, the King’s brother; the second, called the Blue, by Vice-Admiral the Earl of Sandwich.
The third squadron, the White, comprised the French ships under the Count D’Estrées, Vice-Admiral of France; his second in command, Lieutenant Admiral Duquesne.
De Ruyter also arranged his forces into three; Lieutenant Admiral Banckert advanced towards the French ships on the left, and Lieutenant Admiral Van Ghent was opposed to the Earl of Sandwich on the right wing.
De Ruyter, seconded by Lieutenant Admiral Van Nes, took the central position facing the Duke of York’s division, commanded by James himself on his flagship The Royal Prince.
The Dutch Fleet shortened sail; the useless canvas was furled. De Ruyter gave the signal for battle, and the colours of the United Provinces ran up on every yardarm. From the Duke’s flagship floated the royal red standard of England, and from the great vessel that had D’Estrées on board the Bourbon blue with the yet unconquered lilies semé on the azure ground.
Michael de Ruyter walked up to his pilot Zegen.
It was then nearly eight o’clock of a beautiful June day; not a cloud visible, and the deep green water curling into foam about the bows of the advancing vessels.
Above the cordage flew circling sea-birds, the sunlight on their wings and breasts.
De Ruyter pointed out The Royal Prince to the pilot.