However, the ratification of the Treaty of Ghent on 18 February 1815 terminated hostilities before the squadron, then forming at New York City, could get to sea to undertake wartime operations.

On 19 June, the Americans made landfall off Cape Gata, Spain, and soon sighted Mashouda, the frigate flying the flag of Algerian Admiral Rais Hammida.

Giving chase, the Yankee squadron heavily damaged the enemy ship—decapitating Hammida with a 32-pounder shot in the process—and forced her to surrender.

The wily enemy, however, ran into shoal waters where the heavier American frigates feared to go for danger of running aground.

Torch, whose shallower draft permitted her to give chase, joined Epervier, Spitfire, and Spark in forcing Estido aground.