James Madison Papers

To James Madison from Josef Yznardy, 10 December 1803 (Abstract)

§ From Josef Yznardy

10 December 1803, Cádiz. Last wrote on 22 Oct.1 and 3 Nov. “I have now to inform you that the American Ship Sally Capt. John R. Archer loaded by Government with Naval Stores for the Regency of Algiers, was lost on the 20th. ulto. on the sands of Torre dela Higuerilla within a 11. Leagues of the Barr of St. Lucar; the Vessel is entirely lost, and I am apprehensive that what has been saved of the Cargo will hardly pay the expences of it.” Has notified Preble as well as O’Brien and Lear at Algiers of “this misfortune” so that they might inform the dey about the missing stores. “As the Salvage will be so expensive in such a far distance & bad roads, I have determined to sell it on the Spot at Public Auction.” Will inform JM of the net proceeds “for account of Government.” Encloses a copy of a letter from Preble regarding the blockade of Tripoli and his own response.2 “The Sickness in Malaga continues with great force & inclosed is a note of its Situation on the 6th. instant.”3 “By all appearances” Spain “remains perfect neutral in the actual Contest between France & England; but as yet Government has not made it public, sundry Spanish Vessels carried to the Ports of England by Privateers ⟨a⟩re put in liberty, and the Privateers condemned in paying some part of the ⟨da⟩mages.”

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