Significant war-dated DS, signed as secretary of state, “Jas Monroe,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 13.5, June 26, 1812. Remarkable document issued at the beginning of the War of 1812 to Captain Philip Rider, commander of the private armed Schooner called the Experiment, providing instructions for following the attached printed act “concerning Letters of Marque, Prizes and Prize Goods.” In part: “The high seas, referred to in your commission, you will understand, generally, to extend to low water mark…You are to pay the strictest regard to the rights of neutral powers, and the usages of civilized nations…Towards enemy vessels and their crews, you are to proceed, in exercising the rights of war, with all the justice and humanity which characterize the nation of which you are members…The master and one or more of the principal persons belonging to captured vessels, are to be sent, as soon after the capture as may be, to the judge or judges of the proper court in the United States.” In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds, scattered creases and soiling, and a small hole to the upper left. This document dates to just eight days after the United States declared war on England following a series of diplomatic conflicts, including restrictions imposed by the British on US trade overseas and impressment of American soldiers. The naval forces of both nations would be of the utmost importance in deciding the outcome of the War of 1812, during which most conflicts were fought at sea. An exceptional document from the country’s early days of naval warfare. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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