SIX IMPORTANT LETTERS FROM COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE INVOLVING TRIPOLI AND THE WAR.

SIX IMPORTANT LETTERS FROM COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE INVOLVING TRIPOLI AND THE WAR. 1) Commodore Edward Preble, 6 ALS 5 4to, 1 large Fo. October 14, 1803 through January 17, 1804 on board USS Constitution; all to Tobias Lear. One citing that the United States and Tripoli are in a state of war. In order to “distress the enemy” he proposes to blockade the port of Tripoli, and asks Tobias Lear to “communicate this information to the government of Algiers” and “the consuls of neutral powers”. 2) Having blockaded Tripoli, Preble sails for Naples where he applies to the King for various cannon which he hopes to use against the Tripolitans and speaks of Capt. O’Brien’s unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with the Bashaw for the release of the Americans and conclude peace talks with Tripoli. He relates how the Emperor of Russia has asked the “Grand Seignior” “to send a Firman Thirther and demand the release of the Americans”. He goes on to state that M. Beaussier the French consul had done nothing to aid the imprisoned Americans although he had said he had. 3) Edward Preble L.S. 2pp 4to, Jan 17, 1804 to Tobias Lear. “On Dec 23rd in sight of Tripoli. I captured a vessel under Turkish colours….She had on board two Tripoline officers of distinction…30 young black women and twelve black boys some belonging to the Bashaw…I hope this capture will enable me to effect the release of some of my countrymen as I have proposed an exchange…it will not do to be too anxious for the ransom of our friends. 4) Together with a copy of this letter…Edward Preble ALS 4pp 4th. Jan 31, 1804. Describing in great detail the treachery of the captain of the captured Turkish vessel regarding American sailors who were made prisoner. (Relates to Preble letter dated Jan 17, 1804 also in this group). He states the prize, (the Turkish ship) has been equipped as a cruiser under the command of Decatur. Also outlining settlement proposals of the Bashaw’s representative, which Preble finds unacceptable. A fascinating letter full of drama and colorful detail. CONDITION: Overall good except the seal tear damaged Preble’s signature. 9-98651 (5,000-10,000)

Auction: Fine Art, Antiques & Asian - Winter 2010

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

Image	Lot	Price	Description
	2050F	$27,600.00	SIX IMPORTANT LETTERS FROM COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE INVOLVING TRIPOLI AND THE WAR. 1) Commodore Edward Preble, 6 ALS 5 4to, 1 large Fo. October 14, 1803 through January 17, 1804 on board USS Constitution; all to Tobias Lear. One citing that the United States and Tripoli are in a state of war. In order to “distress the enemy” he proposes to blockade the port of Tripoli, and asks Tobias Lear to “communicate this information to the government of Algiers” and “the consuls of neutral powers”. 2) Having blockaded Tripoli, Preble sails for Naples where he applies to the King for various cannon which he hopes to use against the Tripolitans and speaks of Capt. O’Brien’s unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with the Bashaw for the release of the Americans and conclude peace talks with Tripoli. He relates how the Emperor of Russia has asked the “Grand Seignior” “to send a Firman Thirther and demand the release of the Americans”. He goes on to state that M. Beaussier the French consul had done nothing to aid the imprisoned Americans although he had said he had. 3) Edward Preble L.S. 2pp 4to, Jan 17, 1804 to Tobias Lear. “On Dec 23rd in sight of Tripoli. I captured a vessel under Turkish colours….She had on board two Tripoline officers of distinction…30 young black women and twelve black boys some belonging to the Bashaw…I hope this capture will enable me to effect the release of some of my countrymen as I have proposed an exchange…it will not do to be too anxious for the ransom of our friends. 4) Together with a copy of this letter…Edward Preble ALS 4pp 4th. Jan 31, 1804. Describing in great detail the treachery of the captain of the captured Turkish vessel regarding American sailors who were made prisoner. (Relates to Preble letter dated Jan 17, 1804 also in this group). He states the prize, (the Turkish ship) has been equipped as a cruiser under the command of Decatur. Also outlining settlement proposals of the Bashaw’s representative, which Preble finds unacceptable. A fascinating letter full of drama and colorful detail. CONDITION: Overall good except the seal tear damaged Preble’s signature. 9-98651 (5,000-10,000) Auction: Fine Art, Antiques & Asian - Winter 2010 Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

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