an island of North America, and one of the least of the Caribbees, lies in N. Lat. 16. 32. and W. Long. 61. 5. from London, at the distance of four leagues from Guadaloupe, to the south. The soil, produce, and climate, are pretty much the same as the other Caribbees. Columbus discovered it in his second American voyage in 1483, and called it by the name of his ship Maria Galanta, or Gallant Mary. It is about fix leagues long, and between three and four broad. Viewed at a distance from on board a ship, it appears like a floating island, because, as it is for the most part flat, the trees seem to swim; but a nearer prospect shows it to be intersected by some rising grounds, which give a fine variety to the landscape. The French settled here in 1648; and it was taken by the English in 1691, but the French soon got possession of it again. It was again taken by the British in 1759, but afterwards restored at the peace in 1763.—This island was thought on its first discovery, to want water; but a charming running stream has in time been discovered, no less convenient than refreshing and wholesome, on the banks of which are some wealthy planters, and excellent plantations of sugar. A little village in a small bay is the capital of the island, and here the commandant resides. The whole island is very capable of improvement; the soil being almost equally good, and the land rising nowhere too high. The coast affords many little bays, and safe anchorage and shelter to ships.