8
a.m.
The island of Dominique was on our starboard hand , the wind coming off the land , and the French between us and it . Thus they were to windward of us , standing almost directly for Guadaloupe . We were now gradually nearing each other . Just at 8 a.m. the _ Marlborough _ , in gallant style , opened fire on the rear of the French . At the same time Rodney made the signal for close action . Soon after it was hoisted all the other ships and Rear-Admiral Drake 's division commenced firing their broadsides . For a time Admiral Hood 's division was almost becalmed , as were many of Sir George Rodney 's ships , but as they drew ahead they got the wind much stronger clear of the land .