This squadron did not do much but blockade the ports of Tripoli.
A year later, in 1802, a larger squadron was fitted out to bring the Bashaw to terms. Commodore Morris was the commander. On one of the vessels, the Adams, was Oliver Perry as midshipman.
Soon after the arrival of his ship in the Mediterranean, Oliver celebrated his seventeenth birthday.
The captain of the Adams was very fond of him, and succeeded in having him appointed lieutenant on that day.
For a year and a half, the squadron of Commodore Morris cruised about the Mediterranean. No great battles were fought and no great victories were won.
The Adams stopped at the coast towns of Spain, France, and Italy. Through the kindness of the captain, Oliver was often allowed to go on shore and visit the places of interest.
Commodore Morris, being recalled to America, sailed thither in the Adams; and so it happened that in November, 1803, Oliver Perry arrived again in America.
His father was then living in Newport, and Oliver remained at home until July of the next year.
He spent much of his time in studying mathematics and astronomy. He liked to go out among the young people, and his pleasing manners and good looks made him a general favorite.
He was fond of music and could play the flute very skillfully. When not studying, he liked most of all to ride horses, and fence with a sword.