Still look on the bright side Amos. It provided a training ground for your Navy. - Much to the Royal Navy's later regret.

It's late here in Wales, so I can't look up the references, but i rather think that Nelson himself commented favourably on the cutting out and burning of the USS "President" in Tripoli (?), and invited Decature (?) to dine with him, as guest of honour.

And beside that, it gives that wonderfull opening to the Marine Hymn.

Gareth