A naval operation organized by the Continental Navy aimed to capture a Royal Navy dispatch boat was conducted near Block Island. Commanded by Commodore Esek Hopkins, the Continental Navy's strategy involved intercepting the dispatch, which was believed to carry important information regarding British naval movements. Engaging in this mission was part of the broader efforts to challenge British dominance at sea and to bolster American morale during the early stages of the Revolutionary War.

Despite meticulous planning and a motivation to curb British transport of intelligence, the operation faced unexpected challenges. The coordination on the water was hampered by unpredictable weather conditions, which diminished the Navy's efficiency and ability to execute tactical maneuvers effectively. The dispatch boat, benefiting from its British naval superiority, managed to evade capture, illustrating the disparity in maritime capabilities between the Continental Navy and the Royal Navy.

This incident underscored the urgency within the Continental Congress to tightly organize and enhance the naval forces against the formidable British fleet. It also served as a lesson learned regarding the importance of preparation and adaptability when engaged in military operations at sea.