Senator Sheafe Writes To The French Consul, Protesting The Continuing Capture Of American Ships On The High Seas: “The Cases Of Capture By Ships Under The Authority Of The French Republic – One Of Them – The Pacific Was Made Only Twenty Two Days Prior To The Date Of The Convention…”.

JAMES SHEAFE (1755-1829). Sheafe was a Congressman and Senator from New Hampshire. (1798 QUASI WAR WITH FRANCE). From 1798 to 1800, The United States and France fought an undeclared naval war. It was ended by the Convention of 1800 treaty, although the United States had hundreds of ships seized. ALS. 2pg. 8” x 10”. Jany 25, 1802. Senate Chamber. An autograph letter signed “James Sheafe” to Mr. Pichen, the French consul; Senator Sheafe was protesting the continuing capture of American ships by the French, even though it was prevented by treaty: “Allow me to enclose for your perusal the papers that respect my claim in the cases of capture by ships under the authority of the French Republic – one of them – the Pacific was made only twenty two days prior to the date of the Convention – the ship was not carried into any Port and I presume not condemned and therefore should by the 4th article of the Convention be either restored or paid for. The Secretary of State & Attorney General have suggested to me the propriety of laying these cases before you. The death of my Friend & attorney Mr. Dobre in October last of which I have been just advised will somewhat embarrass me in my claim for the Apollo & Cargo. Permit me to ask the favor of your advice and opinion on my proceeding I mean as far only as may be consistent with your office. Will you have the goodness after you have examined the Papers to enclose them to me with your answer…”. The letter has dampstaining on one half of the page and it lightens some of the writing.