The latter opted for a Fabian strategy and scorched earth tactics, destroying resources and Fort St Charles in the process.

In March 1703, the English landed on the western part of Guadeloupe, in the French West Indies, near the main settlement of Basse-Terre.

[2] Reinforcements arrived from Martinique on 3 April, led by its governor Nicolas de Gabaret who took over command, and blew up the fort.

He adopted scorched earth tactics, destroying resources before falling back into the interior, then harassing the English while disease and lack supplies reduced their strength.

Basse-Terre town was set ablaze as the fleet, taking captured guns, sailed on to St Christopher's Island.