His second battle was also at Schooneveld, but this time in HMS Lion, serving in Prince Rupert's division of the Red Squadron.

[3] Ashby was eventually convinced to command HMS Defiance for William of Orange, as he was persuaded of the need to fight the 'popish oppression' of the current king, James II.

After William III was crowned, he knighted Ashby on-board his flagship on 16 May 1689 and made him rear admiral of the Red Squadron soon after.

[1] In the battle of Beachy Head Ashby served as vice-admiral of the red, flying his flag on HMS Berwick.

After the battle he was named joint admiral of the fleet with Sir Richard Haddock and Henry Killigrew.