In 1758, French reinforcements under Lally had arrived in Pondicherry and set about advancing France's position on the Coromandel Coast, notably capturing Fort St.

[3] Lally was poised to strike against Madras in June 1758, but short of money, he launched an unsuccessful attack on Tanjore hoping to raise revenue there.

On 14 December, French troops entered the Black town unopposed, and finding it undefended, began to loot the houses.

The two French commanders, Lally and Bussy, began arguing over the failure to cut off and trap Draper's raiding force.

[6] As the French took up their positions around the city, ready to besiege Fort St George, they were unable to open fire as they were still waiting for artillery ammunition to be brought up for the major siege guns.

In spite of an intense five-day bombardment and several infantry assaults, the French failed to make a breakthrough, as the British defences remained largely intact.

Lally managed to beat off the British attack, but they still remained in the vicinity menacing his rear, stealing much needed supplies and blocking the passage of many to his forces.

[9] On 30 January a Royal Navy frigate ran the French blockade and carried a large sum of money and a company of reinforcements into Madras.