Alexandria Gazette, Commercial And Political

NORFOLK, June 23.

The following minutes of the attack made by the Gun-Boats upon the British frigate, are furnished by an officer who was in the action:

The attack commenced at 14 minutes before 4 o'clock, A. M. and continued until 19 minutes after 6. Boat No. — Lieut. Neale, received seven round shot in and about her hull, which cut away most of her rigging, sweeps, stanchions and channels. Lieut. Neale slightly injured. No. 1, Sailing Master Nants received a round shot between wind and water. No. —, Sailing Master Smith, received one round shot, which killed Mr. Allison, Master's Mate & wounded one other person.—, Lieut. Henley, received one shot in the hull, from which no injury was sustained—five men were wounded.

Most of the Boats were struck in the hull or rigging, but the injury has not been ascertained.

We have in what precedes presented our readers with a hasty sketch of events as they occurred, for the last three days. Many reports have been omitted, some perhaps that were true and interesting, but they came in rather a questionable shape.

It is certain, however, that so far the enemy has been completely foiled in an enterprize of great importance, and without the loss of one man on our part, or even one wounded. The plan of attack appears to have been formed judiciously—the detachment first landed, was no doubt to have made a diversion or an attack at the upper end of Craney Island while the great body of the force was to have landed directly upon it—the spirited and well directed fire from the artillery on the Island, drove back the principal force, with apparent great loss, and in confusion; the attack from the minor force was never made.

It is but too common to exult upon every trivial success, but the events of yesterday were calculated to excite pride and exultation. The enemy's force in view was imposing, upwards of twenty vessels of war, some of the largest size, a number of smaller, with transports. All made a formidable appearance, and from 3 to 4000 men could be landed. All their efforts appeared directed against one post—notwithstanding the situation of this post was such that if overpowered, there was much difficulty in retreat, not the smallest symptom of apprehension appeared, but the very reverse, all were cool and collected, rather wishing the attack, and we feel confident that the enemy was fortunate that he did not approach nearer.

Last night it was expected another attack would be made, but all was quiet, and at the moment we are writing, we are uninformed of the enemy's subsequent movements.

Between 20 and 30 deserters and prisoners have been brought in since those before noticed. They are all but two or three foreigners, chiefly French, that had enlisted to get clear of jails and prison ships.

We have not been able to learn the name of the commander of the land forces, but the brigade of marines, under Col. Williams, is stated to be among the troops on board or landed.

It is pleasing in this hour of trial and apparent danger, to notice the universal composure which prevails—not the slightest appearance of alarm or confusion. The measures which the General has taken, have inspired all with confidence.—The zeal with which he is supported by his officers and soldiers, and by the Naval Commander, officers, seamen, and marines, and by all ranks of citizens, assure us that the enemy will pay dear for any attempt on this post. The local force of this place and militia of the adjacent counties, are hourly uniting with the army.

Eleven o'clock, A. M.—We receive information on which we can rely, that the enemy embarked his whole force at sun-set last evening, on board the barges about 40 in number, and proceeded to the fleet. From the number of boats, it is concluded the force landed did not fall short of 2000. More deserters were brought in this morning; these report that there are a great number more in the woods, which may be expected in the course of the day.

Latest.—Accounts have just been received, that the enemy landed last night at New-Port News, at the entrance of James River. An attack upon Hampton is probably meditated.

Twelve o'clock—Information has been just received, that the enemy landed this morning at or near Hampton.

We should have stated, that the enemy could not, from the positions he chose, be molested by the gun boats in his movements yesterday.

The following statement of the enemy's force which landed yesterday, we received from a prisoner—we give it as such.

102d regiment 1000

Royal marine brigade 1000

From the ships of war, marines 400

Seamen 1000

Two companies of French 800

4200