The Virginia Gazette

BALTIMORE, February 2.

CAPTAIN MATTHEWMAN just arrived here from Martinique, brings advice, that the French fleet and army under the direction of the Count d'Estaing, in a late attempt to regain the island of St. Lucia, belonging to his Most Christian Majesty, of which the British had lately possessed themselves, were repulsed with considerable loss, and had returned to Martinique, from whence the descent was made, where preparations were making for a second embarkation. It appears from the representation of Captain Matthewman, that the British at St. Lucia were advantageously posted, and strongly fortified, yet the French troops made their attack upon them with great gallantry, forced one redoubt, and took 200 prisoners; but in their attempt to carry another, they failed with the loss of 1500 men, in killed and wounded, and were then obliged to retreat. A French frigate arrived several days before Captain Matthewman sailed, who, some days before, parted with a fleet of six sail of the line, and 6000 troops, destined for Martinique, who were hourly expected to arrive. Capt. Matthewman adds, that a French frigate had taken the British sloop of war Ceres, on the West India station. [St. Lucia lies about 80 miles north west of Barbadoes, and 50 south of Martinico. It is 23 miles in length, and 12 in breadth. Some part of the island is hilly; but in general the soil is very rich, being well watered with small streams. It is well stocked with wood, and has several good bays and harbours. This island was formerly considered as belonging to England, and, together with that of St. Vincent, was granted by patent in the reign of George I. to the late Duke of Montague: But the French soon after took possession of it, and it was ceded to them by the late treaty of peace.]