Tartar was built in France in 1779, probably under another name, and taken in prize.

She then became the merchantman Friends, and traded between Bristol and North America, primarily Newfoundland.

[3] Captain Aaron Floyd acquired a letter of marque on 10 February 1781.

Lloyd's List reported in March 1781 that the privateer Phoenix, of Dartmouth, Captain Pidgely, had captured a brig from Mauritius and recaptured the Bristol privateer Tartar, and brought them both into Penzance.

Captain Doyle purchased her, renamed her Friends, and started sailing her between Bristol and Newfoundland.