Algerian privateers captured Maltese galley commanded by knight d’Espierty according to the Dutch newspaper Leydse courant dated 24 September 1784

An item dated Livorno, Italy 5th referred to tidings received from Port Mahon dated 7 August reported that on Tuesday 3rd heavy gunfire was heard coming from the seaside. Afterwards became known that a large galley of Malta was attacked by 3 Algerian privateers and despite a furious defense was captured. Her commanding officer knight d’Espierty and some crew members were killed in the fight, the survivors were murdered. Further more was reported that since the recently failed bombardment the Dey of Algiers ordered his privateers to kill every Spanish or Maltese person if possible.