Highly desirable partly-printed DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.75 x 16.25, July 7, 1794. Three-language ship's papers issued to "William Wells, master or commander of the Ship called the James...lying at present in the port of New York, bound for Ostend, and laden with Pork, Beef, and Barrel Staves.” Prominently signed in the center by President George Washington and countersigned by Secretary of State Edmund Randolph; additionally endorsed twice by Mayor Richard Varick of New York City. The white paper seal affixed to the left side remains fully intact, as does the seal of New York suspended below by a light blue ribbon. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing.
When France declared war on England in February of 1793, the US was put in a precarious position, proclaiming neutrality but still formally allied with France under the treaty of 1778. Both sides harassed and seized American ships. Used to establish proof of nationality and guarantee protection for ships, these documents were signed in bulk by Washington and Randolph, then forwarded to the collectors of customs at different ports for distribution. There, local officials would confirm the legitimacy of the vessels, their cargo, and their personnel. In this case, that official was NYC Mayor Richard Varick, who had been Washington's secretary during the Revolutionary War.
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