 Tromp wished to keep the "Prince Royal" as a prize, and when de Ruyter finally caught up with his fleet at about 7pm, he initially raised no objection.However, when it floated as the tide rose, its rudder and steering were found to be damaged so it could not steer itself.As the recombined English fleet was preparing to attack, de Ruyter ordered the "Prince Royal" to be burned at once, as it was possible that an attempt would be made to recapture it.