In May 1798, Soleil received command of the frigate "Diane". He took part in the Battle of the Nile, managing to escape to Malta. In August 1800, as the Siege of Malta approached its conclusion and Malta was about to fall to the British, he was ordered back to France. "Diane" was however intercepted by the British blockade and captured by HMS "Success", HMS "Northumberland" and HMS "Genereux".