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detached to Malta; the enemy considered this a fit opportunity to act offensively. Their forts opened a heavy fire on our little squadron, which was cruising as close in shore as pos­ sible, but Bille soon caused them to repent. Having formed his project, he asked the pilot, in a casual way, if it were possible to bring the frigate into action with the shipping in the harbour. The pilot, who was a man of experience and judgment, answered in the affirmative. Nothing now could restrain the im­ patience of Bille, and his gallant crew heartily seconding his wishes, they shaped their course accordingly. Soon after, the Naiad struck on a bank, but this misfortune only served to heighten their ardor She was soon afloat again, and presently the engagement com­ menced, which was crowned with all the success the intrepidity and bravery of our tars deserved. The havoc was dreadful on board the enemy’s ships; they lost several hundred men, while we, from superior skill in manoeu- vering, escaped with only one man wounded. Meanwhile, the enemy’s Vice Admiral got