Fowle's New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

PHILADELPHIA, June 20.

We can assure the public, from the best authority, that, notwithstanding all the British publications to the contrary, no American vessel whatever has been captured by the Algerines or any of the other Barbary states. The Emperor of Morocco indeed has made one prize only, viz. the Betsy, Capt. James Ervine, of this port. Our Commissioners in Europe, it is said, have received letters from the Emperor's Minister of foreign affairs, and from his English interpreter, written by his order, intimating, that as soon as he heard that America had declared herself independent, he notified the powers of Europe, that he was ready to enter into friendship with us; that he likewise signified his amicable disposition to some of our Commissioners some time ago; but having received no answer, he made but one single prize, viz. the vessel above mentioned; that he had not, however, suffered the crew to be carried into slavery, nor confiscated the vessel and cargo; that he had ordered that no more of our vessels should be molested, until there should be time for him to hear from Congress, or from their Ministers in Europe: and that immediately on the conclusion of a treaty, he will deliver up the crew, vessel and cargo. The vessel however, is not thought capable of going to sea again, and her cargo, which was chiefly salt, has been damaged since her capture. The most effectual measures are taking to prevent a repetition of hostilities from the Emperor, as well as from the other predatory powers. In the mean time, no dangers can be apprehended from them out of the Streights of Gibraltar.

Extract of a letter from Captain James Ervine, now a prisoner at Magador, South-Barbary, to a Gentleman in Baltimore, dated April 1, 1785.

"Soon after our arrival at Tangiers, we were ordered to Morocco, and carried before the Emperor, who informed us he was at peace with our nation, but soon after ordered us to this place, where we are to remain prisoners till Congress may think proper to send an Ambassador to our relief. This is the ultimate determination of the Emperor. We hope, which is all the comfort under our dreadful situations, they will be speedy and favorable to our wishes, and restore us again to our families and friends."