 In fact, they were ships of Tromp's squadron that had chased the "Rainbow" into Ostend in the first day and were now re-joining the fight.Although it was clear this reinforcement could not join the Dutch fleet before dark, there was no question of the English fleet continuing the battle for a third day with only 35 ships, besides six badly damaged ones, when Rupert's whereabouts were still unknown.Albemarle gave the order to retreat.