Alexandria Daily Advertiser

Captain Goldsbury, who arrived at Boston on Wednesday last, in the brig Apollo, 46 days from Madeira, informs, that on the 24th Dec. a British squadron of 4 sail of the line; 6 frigates. and a number of transports, having on board some troops, arrived off Funchal, and immediately took possession of the island of Madeira. The fleet was commanded by rear admiral Hood. and the troops by major gen. Beresford. Captain G. remarks, that previous to the arrival of the British fleet, preparations were made. to defend the island ; that batteries were erected-on the shore, and troops placed therein ;-that the fleet appeared off the town about 8 o'clock in the morning, and with a fresh breeze soon went in, and laid themselves in line of battle, with springs on their cables ; the transports standing off and on ; that the admiral sent a note to the governor, giving him 15 minutes to answer his request. which was. to give up the place to the British. or stand his defense, as he should in case of refusal, immediately fire on the town ; that the governor, not having time to collect all his troops, consented to the terms of capitulation and delivered up the island. Captain G. also adds. that an embargo was laid by the British Admiral, on all vessels in port ; that he was drove out intentionally. in the night; and escaped. He did not learn how long the embargo was to continue.