To Thomas Jefferson from Richard O’Bryen, 2 June 1788
From Richard O’Bryen
Algiers, 2 June 1788. “If any one is redeemed it is at a very exorbitant price. A few days ago an old Savoy Captain of a Merchant vessel was redeemed for the sum of 2150 Algerine Chequins, which is equal to £967.10 Sterling, and even with that price it was with much time the Dey was prevailed on to let him be redeemed; and I think that Sailors will be as high as £400. Sterling as they are very scarce here at present and much wanted to do the duty for the public.”
MS missing. The text printed here, a Tr (DNA: RG 59) in the hand of a clerk of the Department of State, was extracted from the missing MS for use in connection with TJ’s report of 28 Dec. 1790. PrC of another Tr by same clerk (DLC). At head of both: “No. 6. Extract of a letter from Richard O Brian to the Honble. Thomas Jefferson dated Algiers June 2d. 1788.” Probably enclosed in Cathalan to TJ, 11 June 1788.