The service in this quarter cannot suffer from this arrangement, as Captain Decatur is at present without a ship, and my return will place him immediately in the exercise of the duties attached to that commission which he has so gallantly earned, and his country generously bestowed. I shall feel a pleasure in leaving the Constitution under the command of that officer, whose enterprising and manly conduct I have often witnessed, and whose merits eminently entitle him to so handsome a command. The other commanders merit the highest commendations for their prompt obedience to orders, on all occasions, and for the zeal, spirit and judgment which they displayed in the several attacks on the enemy's shipping and batteries, as well as for the general good order and discipline at all times observed on board their respective vessels. The officers of the squadron have conducted themselves in the most gallant and handsome manner; and the conduct of the different ship's companies have merited my warmest approbation since I have had the honour to command them. It affords me much satisfaction to observe that we have neither had a duel nor a court martial in the squadron since we left the United States. I most sincerely regret the loss of our gallant countrymen, who have sacrificed their lives to the honour of the service, and that it has not been in my power, consistent with the (p. 150) interest and expectation of our country, to liberate Captain Bainbridge and the unfortunate officers and crew of the Philadelphia. Be assured, sir, I have incessantly endeavoured to effect this desirable object. I have no doubt but my successor will be able to effect their release, and establish peace, on such terms as will reflect the highest honour on himself and his country. _September 17th._ Arrived at Malta with the two detained Greek vessels. We experienced very bad weather, but had the satisfaction to learn that the bombs and gunboats had arrived safe at Syracuse, the 15th instant, without accident. Each of the Tripoline gunboats which we have captured has two brass howitzers abaft, and a handsome copper gun in the bow, which carries a twenty-nine pound shot, is eleven and a half feet long, and weighs six thousand six hundred pounds. I send you a plan of the town and harbour of Tripoli, with the disposition of our squadron, and the enemy's flotilla, at the time of the several attacks, with sundry other papers. I have the honour to be, with the highest respect, sir, Your most obedient servant, Edward PREBLE. _____ _R. Smith to George Harrison._