Virginia Argus

Boston, April 24.

THE SQUADRON.

On Thursday afternoon Commodore Rodgers got under way and saluted the town as he passed by it down the harbor amidst the huzzas of a large concourse of people whose hearts go with him, his fine corps of officers and excellent crew. Few officers court popularity less than Com. Rodgers, very few have entertained more of it than this accomplished commander. If he be not a consummate naval officer, the people of Boston have formed a wrong opinion. His officers down to the youngest midshipman have acquired the respect of the inhabitants by the propriety of their behavior; and the sober and orderly conduct of his crew when ashore, has given a new idea of men-of-war-men. When we speak of his officers and crew, we mean of his squadron in the harbor of Boston without confining our commendation to the ship President.

Captain Smith is a highly meritorious officer, & commands a ship and to honor to him and to his country. Every observer of the Congress that she got under way in a most masterly manner. Her sails were displayed with the rapidity of the scenery of a theatre, which excited a burst of applause from the spectators. May health and success attend the officers of the squadron and the highly disciplined crew, in their resolution of enforcing the doctrine of "Free trade and no impressment."

The President and Congress yesterday lay in the Roads. The wind was directly ahead; consequently they could not proceed to sea if they were so disposed. It is said the two British frigates were in sight the first part of the day, but we feel satisfied they were not.

Patriot.