CHAPTER VIII.
The First Serious Engagement--Loss of the Philadelphia--The Scheme of Captain Bainbridge--Exploit of Lieutenant Decatur.
Andrew Sterrett was executive officer of the _Constellation_, which captured the French frigate _L'Insurgente_, in 1799, and _La Vengeance_, in 1800.

It fell to his lot, while in command of the _Enterprise_, a vessel of 12 guns, to have the first serious fight in the war with Tripoli.

When off Malta, he met a Tripolitan vessel of 14 guns, and they fought furiously for two hours, at the end of which time the enemy hauled down his flag.

The Americans left their guns and broke into cheers, whereupon the Tripolitan fired a broadside.

Nothing loath, Lieutenant Sterrett resumed the battle.