 In September 1796 Gilbert Elliot, the British viceroy of the Anglo-Corsican Kingdom, decided that it was necessary to clear out Capraja, which belonged to the Genoese and which served as a base for privateers.He sent Lord Nelson in , together with "Gorgon", "Vanneau", the cutter "Rose", and troops of the 51st Regiment of Foot to accomplish this task in September.On their way, "Minerva" joined them.