This expedition , composed Come_together of seven ships of the line and three frigates under the orders of Rear-Admiral Richery sailed Self_motion from Cadiz in August 1796 accompanied by a much stronger Spanish squadron , commanded Control by General Solano , which had the aim of escorting it to the coast of Newfoundland .

French Admiral Joseph de Richery , decided Deciding not to land after he saw this force , and after hovering in the area for several days , he chose Choosing instead to land at Bay Bulls , 18 miles south of St. John 's , on 4 September .