We are all very quiet at present, and have been so for some time past. Martial law has been suspended about a month; but parochial guards were kept throughout the island, till within this fortnight. The militia is now restored to its former state, and I hope there will be no further occasion for martial law being established here.
A few weeks ago the French frigate L'Hermione, commanded by Mons. Demonteil, Brigadier-General and knight of the order of St. Louis, came in here from St. Nichola Mole in Hispaniola, to demand a small American schooner which had, been taken by the Squirrel a few days before. He alledged that the schooner was taken nearer the land than was permitted by treaty between the two courts. The Admiral answered, that Capt. [Stair] Douglas knew his duty, and if he had acted wrong, must answer for it; that he deemed the schooner a lawful prize, and would not deliver her up; but that if there were any differences to be adjusted, they must be settled by the two courts. The French frigate did not remain here 48 hours. It is reported that the admiral further told the captain, that he need not salute his ship when he went away, as he had omitted it when he came in; for that consequently the compliment should not be returned. There have been five or six prizes brought in here within these three weeks.
