Jenks' Portland Gazette

Some particulars of the loss of the frigate Philadelphia.

Leghorn, Dec. 10.

Sir,

The enclosed packet contains copies of letters from Tripoli informing us of the loss of the United States frigate the Philadelphia. She ran on a bank abreast of that harbour at 11 A. M, on the 31st of October and kept up a brisk cannonade with the gun-boats of that Regency until 4, P. M. when failing in their efforts to get her off, they surrendered to superior force. The officers and crew are in captivity ; but the former are permitted to remain in the American Consular house, in consequence of my having paid the rent in anticipation for four years before I left that place.

The officers and crew have been plundered of every thing, and are consequently in want of every necessary of life. I have forwarded a credit for their present maintenance until provision is made for them by government --and shall procure a change of clothes for each with all possible expedition.

As it is of great importance that intelligence of this deplorable event should reach the seat of government with all possible expedition, I request you to forward the enclosed by the first vessel from Barcelona, and if none should be ready to sail immediately for the United States, to immediately enclose it to Mr. Kirkpatrick, our Consul at Malaga, requesting him to forward it from this place by the most direct conveyance.

On your arrival in America, it would be of use to publish an extract from this letter, in order that the relations of the unfortunate sufferers may be informed of their real situation, and at the same time to offer to those who are in circumstances to make remittances to their friends, my service gratis, as thereby they will save commission and other charges generally made on such occasions. Wishing you a pleasant passage, I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

JAMES L. CATHCART.

Capt. Bainbridge, Leghorn.