Ottoman Algeria in Western Diplomatic History with ... - Bibliothèque

) Cordiality and Peaceful Intentions: The Dey welcomed American
friendship and even was ready to conclude a peace treaty with the United
States; the only thing he needed was some time so that he could finish
negotiations with the Spanish emissary. Sidi Hassan was even more
predisposed for that peace. The previously mentioned letter of ‘Sidji Assan
Nickilange to Congress’ is a proof in itself that Algiers was inclined towards
peace with the United States. Both were even ready to face the wrath of Great
Britain for an amicable relationship with the United States. An incident that
took place after the departure of the American envoy and reported by both the
French Consul de Kercy and the Spanish envoy d’Expilly indicated that
tendency. In a letter to Carmichael, the latter recounted the following: Logie,
having learnt too late that the vessel on which Lamb sailed to Algiers was
American property—therefore technically it was subject to seizure—
communicated the information to the Dey alluding that the vessel could be
sized. The Dey who did not appreciate Logie’s conduct replied that
he had permitted the American officers to land; that they were gone
away, that the vessel was now under his protection; and concluded by
telling the Consul to mind his own business, and not intermeddle in
future with what did not concern him. 130
Apparently Logie communicated the same information and insinuation to
Wakil Khardj too and had the right to the same answer as that given by the
130 USDC, 3:121, Extract of a letter from William Carmichael to Thomas Jefferson, July 15, 1786.
Note: Lamb bought the vessel from the money which was appropriated for the treaty and ransom of
captives; he left it at Algiers in the care of d’Expilly and returned to Spain.
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