A disastrous fate seems to have always pursued every modern aim at the conquest of our isles. A petty attempt on Wales, by means of a set of wretched criminals, terminated with their immediate surrender to Lord Cawdor; and the capture of the frigates that had transported them, by Sir H. Neal and Captain J. Cooke, of the St. Fiorenzo and Nymphe, in sight of their own fleet in the road of Brest. Lieut. (afterwards Capt.) Carruthers, who was subsequently drowned in the Invincible, and Lieut. Campbell, of Marines, were distinguished in this spirited affair. Sir John Warren and his squadron were highly active in annoying the enemy's Naval force and coasting trade during this year. It is needless to enlarge upon the merits of the brilliant victory of the 11th of October, achieved under the most hazardous circumstances, and signally productive of the most important consequences. The very modest recital of Admiral, now Lord Duncan, of the proceedings of that day, adds a lustre to his well-earned glory. Long baulked in the hopes of meeting his cautious enemy, no wonder his joy kept pace with his zeal to close with them when he had them in his power. The Dutch Marine has not yet recovered the blow, and the services of the North Sea fleet have, experimentally, transcended in their effects to enervate the Naval exertions of that province of France, in two wars. During the very able and vigilant administration of Earl Spencer, reward was the rapid follower of desert, and the British Commander, after not many hours absence from his Country, found himself, on return to it, elevated, from a commoner, to a Peer of the Realm. A suitable tribute was bestowed upon his brave second Vice Admiral, now Sir Richard Onslow, and Captain H. Trollope, who was bearer of the glad tidings, as well as W. G. Fairfax, the Admiral's Captain; both of whom were created Knights Banneret[4], by a benevolent and grateful Sovereign. The Thanks of the Nation were also conveyed to the Officers, Seamen, and Marines, through its representatives. The generous contributions of the patriotic and the wealthy of our land, were likewise extended to many a disconsolate widow, a fatherless offspring, and a helpless orphan. The sufferings of the wounded and indigent Officer too were alleviated by public kindness, which sought for objects upon which to exercise its benevolence amongst the lowest ranks of those brave defenders. How criminal it is in any to violate the duties of fidelity to such a Country! In this well-fought battle 751 Seamen and Marines were killed and wounded, amongst the latter of which were numbered Captains Cuthbert and Cassel, Lieuts. Chambers, Smith, Walker, Charles Rea, and Sandys. A dash at the Brutus, of 74 guns, by Sir Thomas Williams, after the battle, was ineffectual; but did honour to himself, his Officers, Seamen, and Marines, in the Endymion.