Davis, George (fl. 1803-1811) to John Payne re: instructions for meeting with Sidi Ahmet Caramanli

Sir. 12. Tripoli 1. February 1809.

His Excellency the Bashaw of Tripoli having agreed to make a permanent provision for the support of his brother Sidi Ahmet now resident at Malta, in case he should confirm the proposition made him for that object within the space of two months, and the pressure of circumstances not admitting of any delay, it has been judged expedient for the interests of the United States that you should repair to Malta for the purpose of explaining, in a personal conference, any points which he may not have understood in the letters already addressed to him, and to hasten His Excellency's decision.
The Bashaw will either confirm the proposals contained in Sidi Ahmet's letter of the 10. Ultimo, or he will cede to him the sovereignty and revenues of the province of Derna but you are to explain to his Excellency, in the most explicit terms, that the United States are in no manner involved in the arrangement. Should he still conceive it his interest to settle in Morocco you will inform Sidi Ahmet that the stipulated annuity shall be remitted to the American Consul at that Court with all possible celerity after it's payment here, and will, by him, be delivered to His Excellency; but he is expressly to understand that no advance will be made him by the Agent of the United States, nor is he to found any pretensions upon their Government in the event of a total discontinuance of his pension. In like manner, should he determine to repair to Derna, the procession of that establishment must depend upon his peacable [sic] deportment, as the United States will have no concern in any future disputes which may arise between him and his brother; for having fulfilled all their engagements with both, neither - [2] neither [sic] has, in fact, at this period, any just claim interference.
In offering these explanations you are to add that I am fully impressed with the sincerity of the Bashaw's conduct, and of his friendly disposition towards His Excellency, and therefore do not herein take to recommend, in the strongest manner, his acceptance of the Government now offered him.
You are also to state that the person of Mahomet Mezzaluna, now resident in Tunis, is obnoxious to the Bashaw, and it is expected that His Excellency's discretion will suggest the propriety of letting him remain there. No other individual of his suit is considered exceptionable.
Immediately after your arrival at Malta you will seek an interview with Sidi Ahmet and, by the earliest occasion, communicate to me his decision in order that final arrangements may be made for his embarkation. Should he give the preference to Derna a Chouas will be dispatched with a caftan [illegible] for His Excellency, and will also accompany him to his Government. The transportation of himself and family to either place will be at the charge of the Bashaw.
The letter which His Excellency addressed to Sidi Ahmet you will deliver or with hold according to his determination to go either to Derna or Morocco. Mahomet Dghies who is instructed to attend you as an Arabic Interpreter is likewise charged by the Bashaw with a verbal message to his brother.
The expenses incident to your voyage to and from Malta, as well as those incurred during your stay there, will be allowed you. - I need not add that your [3] your [sic] services [struck: here] are so much required here, that no [struck: illegible] detention can be expected which shall not appear necessary to the interests of the Eaile.
Herewith is a letter to Sidi Ahmet and one for William Higgens, Esq.: our Navy Agent, both of which you will deliver immediately on your arrival, and, if possible, in person.
I have the honor to be
Sir,
With great respect
Your mo[st]: ob[edien]t. serv[an]t.
(signed) George Davis
Mr. John Payne
Secretary to the U.S.
Consulate at Tripoli.