Final answer:
John White faced delays due to historical events like the Spanish Armada and a clear time frame is provided for his delay in returning to Roanoke.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author illustrates that John White had a difficult time in England securing a ship to return to Roanoke by detailing several obstacles he encountered. Historical events, such as the arrival of the Spanish Armada in 1588, significantly delayed his departure. Additionally, the text references White's inability to sail back to Roanoke until 1590, providing a clear time frame for his delay. These challenges highlight the complexity and the difficulty of trans-Atlantic logistics during the Elizabethan era.