[Presidential] Monroe, James Printed Privateering Document, signed

(Washington, D.C.), ca. 1812. One sheet folded to make 4 pp.; 13 1/4 x 8 1/4 in. (336 x 209 mm). Partially-printed document issued at the beginning of the War of 1812, accomplished in a secretarial hand and signed by Monroe as Secretary of State, granting Joseph Kinner of the schooner Gov. Tompkins a letter of marque and reprisal, and containing "Instructions for the Private Armed Vessels of the United States". Creasing from original folds; separating along center fold, a few other small separations along folds; scattered light foxing. Lot includes a printed portrait of Monroe.

Issued eight days after the beginning of the War of 1812, when the United States declared war against Great Britain, this document was issued by the United States to private vessels and delineates the procedures by which letters of marque and reprisal are issued. It also outlines the conduct vessels should adhere to during the execution of their commission. Toward neutral vessels they were advised to "pay the strictest regard to the rights of neutral powers, and the usages of civilized nations; and in all your proceedings towards neutral vessels, you are to give them as little molestation or interruption as will consist with the right of ascertaining their neutral character..." and when dealing with enemy vessels, "proceed, in exercising the rights of war, with all the justice and humanity which characterize the nation of which you are members."