Rhode Island Republican

Capt. Houston of the brig American, arrived last evening from the city of St. Domingo, informs, that an engagement took place at that port on the 6th ult. between the French fleet from Brest, and under the command of Admiral Siegle, and the English squadron, believed under the command of Admiral Cochran, which ended in the capture of 3 and destruction of 2, (one of which was the Admiral's) of the largest of the French ships. The French fleet consisted of L'Imperial, of 134 guns, Jupiter 74, Diomed 74, L'Brave 84, L'Alexandra 74. Felicite 44. Comet 96, and the corvette Diligence 22 ; and the English force consisted of 7 line of battle ships and two smaller vessels. Previous to the engagement the French had landed 600 troops. The battle was vigorous and well contested on both sides for 3 hours.

Capt. H. further informs, that 2 days after the action another English squadron of 13 sail arrived and remained two days off that place, supposed commanded by Admiral Duckworth.

We learn from a respectable gentleman, that the upper decks of L'Imperial blew up when she sunk, about seven miles from the city ; and that 700 souls perished on board. She is just off the rocks, and was thought to be the finest ship in the French navy.-ibid. March 6.