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

In coming before the town it is usual to hoist the flag of a neutral friendly
power to invite negotiation with a view to peace, before proceeding to
extremities. The Consul of that nation then comes on board in an Algerine boat
and he is made the organ of a message to the Dey, such as the power thus
circumstanced may think proper to send him. Should this be done, as the
Consul of Sweden, M. Nordeling, has been friendly to the United States, the
flag of Sweden is preferred. Supposing it possible that you may take this
course, the President has thought proper to address a letter to the Dey which is
enclosed to be used by you should you find it expedient so to do. This letter
will, of course, be delivered to a discreet and confidential messenger who will
be authorized and instructed to give such answers to the enquiries of the Dey
and to make such communications to him as you may deem most likely to
accomplish the objects in view.
At whatever time the negotiation is opened, whether it be before or after
proceeding to extremities, the conditions must be such as are honorable to the
United States. No tribute will be paid; no biennial presents made;—the United
States must hold the high ground with that power which they ought to hold.
They must stand on the footing of the powers of Europe who are most
respected there,—such as England, France and Russia. Complimentary
attentions and presents, when Consuls are presented, or at other times, such as
those powers make, the United States are willing to make ; but none other.
These must be voluntary, not compulsory or stipulated by Treaty. That point
being secured the United States will not fail to make such as may suit their rank
as a nation, having in view the good disposition manifested towards them by
the government of Algiers, on which they will depend.
The discharge of our citizens so unjustly captured will be a necessary
consequence of peace. The payment of any money for their liberation,
especially by way of ransom, would countenance the late unwarrantable
declaration of war by the Dey, and might invite another war with a view to a
like claim. It is the object of the United States to put an end to these odious
practices, as to themselves so far as circumstances will admit, and in which
they cannot fail to succeed if the undertaking is favored by the powers who are
supposed to have a common interest in it. Should this however appear to be a
formidable obstacle to a peace, which might otherwise be obtained on
honorable and satisfactory conditions, it is presumed that it may be removed by
an informal understanding that it is not the mere question of the sum
demanded, that prevents a provision for it in the Treaty, but the recognition of
the principle. In the way of a present, after the conclusion of the Treaty a
reasonable sum may be given to him gratuitously.
The honorable termination of the war with England, with which the
Government of Algiers is doubtless well informed and the complete liberation
of our forces for this service, must satisfy he Dey that he has much to dread
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