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year and had the good fortune to become acquainted with
your two Sons in London but almost immediately quitted
England to join the French expedition against Algiers which
the news papers will long since have informed you
fell with little difficulty under the powerful expedition
of France things were certainly done in superior style so
different from the paltry undertaking of that sort we so often send
out. 34,000 troops were embarked in 80 vessels of war & 600 transports
with provisions for 6 months 4000 horses and nearly 100 pieces of
artillery. The enemy were totally unworthy of such an exertion
and fell under the attack in 14 day's of which only 7 were
actively employed the battles or rather skirmishes were
of little importance and never for a moment doubtfull.
after 5 day's siege the City surrendered at discretion [We]
found 2000 brass Cannon and 10,000,000 tem millions Sterling
in gold and silver. The Dey [Hussein Dey] with his family were packed
off to Naples where he now resides. The King of France however
soon followed him and I think most probably will ultimately
retire to the same place. In Europe great changes must soon
take place & for my part I have almost decided on removing
to your quarter of the world and quietly ending my day's for
in England there is not positively room to move about
and living is far too expensive for a limited income.
with best respects and kindest regards to any part of
your family who may recollect me
I remain with the greatest
respect & Regard
Dear Sir your most obdt
Wm. Monteith