James Leander Cathcart to James Madison, 7 September 1801 (Abstract)
§ From James Leander Cathcart
7 September 1801, Leghorn. No. 11. Sends enclosures that will show current American position. Adds that “the Capture of the Tripoline Cruiser in its tendency is equal to a victory.… A few more actions will effectually establish our national character in this sea, & prove to the Tyrants of Barbary that the government of the United States will not suffer indignitys with impunity.” Assures JM that the president will never see Cathcart’s signature on a dishonorable treaty. Impatiently awaits instructions.
RC and enclosures (DNA: RG 59, CD, Tripoli, vol. 2). RC 2 pp. Enclosures include copies of Dale’s 25 Aug. letter to Cathcart (2 pp.) informing him that he had learned at Malta of the capture of a Tripolitan cruiser by the Enterprize and Cathcart’s 7 Sept. reply to Dale (4 pp.) reiterating his support for a firm policy toward the Barbary States and describing a ship sailing under British colors but owned by Murad Rais. Enclosures printed in , 1:560–61, 572–73.
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