During the summer of this year, the Fleet and Army, under Sir James Douglas, and Lord Rollo, reduced the island of Dominica, which had maintained the assumed name of neutral, but had evinced the most marked partiality for France; after a conference between these joint Commanders, and the principal Natives, who at first appeared much inclined to capitulate, the islanders, urged on by the artifices of Mons. Longprie, the Governor, seemed resolved to defend themselves. The Ships soon moved close to the land, and, after a heavy cannonade, silenced all the batteries, when the troops were pushed ashore. A successful and uninterrupted train of attack continued through the whole day of the 6th of June, with but little loss on our part, in which Lieutenant Colonel Melville, who led the grenadiers of the Army, was much distinguished for promptitude and spirit. The capture of the entire island, upon the 7th, was the effect of such active energies. Nothing farther was achieved during this year, that falls properly under my review, in the light of conquests. Numerous were the gallant single actions that were fought at sea. One of the most prominent for daring spirit, and steady perseverance occurred upon the 23d of January, between the Minerva, commanded by Captain Alexander Hood, (now Lord Bridport), of 32 guns, and the Warwick, formerly a British ship of 60, but with only 34 mounted. Military exploits often derive their chief merit from the bold ideas in which they originate. Such an application may well be advanced on the present occasion, for the immense superiority of the enemy, must have been early apparent to a seaman's eye. Captain Hood was not intimidated at the view of a two decker, but continued the chace, until he got close alongside. The Frenchman soon sustained damage, which was succeeded by a much greater on the part of the Minerva, in the serious loss of her bowsprit and foremast. These being quickly cleared away, this zealous Officer moved once more against the Warwick, and towards the close of day renewed the combat. His brave exertions were crowned with success and with honor; a share of which his modest recital, diffused amongst his Officers, his Seamen, and Marines. Another instance endeared to their Country, Captains Faulkener and Logie, by a well fought engagement, which terminated in the capture of the Courageux of 74 guns. The Bellona and Brilliant putting into Lisbon to land the wounded, and to discharge their prisoners, these unfortunate men applied to the Consul of France for relief, but he would grant them none. The occasion called forth British humanity, and they were relieved by those who had conquered them. It would not have been so with the Seamen of England, who kindly anticipates, and provides for the wants of those her valuable servants, in every port, and in every clime. Our Commerce was also well protected, when we consider its vast extent in every quarter of the globe.