BAINBRIDGE LETTER. 1 page LS, US Ship Independence, June 30, 1815 ordering Lt. George Washington Storer to report with his ship USS Lynx to Mediterranean. "Should any unforeseen cause separate your vessel from the Independence, you will please to proceed to the Mediterranean and report yourself to the commanding officer of the United States Naval Forces there. Off Algiers is the most probable place to find him." William Bainbridge (1774-1833) was commander of naval squadron in 1st Barbary War but was held prisoner for 2 years after loss of USS Philadelphia by Basha in Tripoli until shaky peace in 1805. He would return in command of a new squadron. Bainbridge remained in naval service till his death. CONDITION: very good, bold dark signature. PROVENANCE: Martin Lane Historic & Western Americana Lifetime Collection. (02-21998/JS). $500-1,000.