This is an interpretation of an embarkation of cavalry probably from Perry's dock, Blackwall. The troops are thought to be on their way to Ostend, where they were ordered for foreign service. The soldiers wear a uniform with red facings, and approximately 800 were embarked altogether, including the 11th and 15th Dragoons and Horse Guards. Their kit can be seen in the foreground. The transports were brought into the basin for the convenience of putting the horses on board and the painting shows the horses lined up, ready to be loaded. One horse is shown being hoisted onto the ship in a canvas sling. A temporary viewing gallery or platform can be seen on the left, and this was erected for the crowd close to the place of embarkation. 'The Times' on 25th April 1793, observed that this viewing platform was crowded by persons of 'rank and fashion', and the Prince of Wales, the Duke of York and Prince William of Gloucester were also present, to give a 'parting cheer'.