Partly-printed DS, signed "Th: Jefferson" as president and "James Madison" as secretary of state, one page, 19 x 15.5, November 30, 1803. Four-language ship's papers issued to "Wm. Wildes master or commander of the Brig called Albatross…lying at present in the port of Boston bound for Mediterranean and laden with Fish." Beautifully signed in the center by President Jefferson and countersigned by Secretary of State Madison. Double-matted and framed with portraits of both to an overall size of 25.5 x 30. In very good to fine condition, with intersecting folds and several apparent repairs to reverse of some folds and separations, not affecting either signature, both of which are bright, crisp, and bold.
The Albatross was about to undertake a dangerous voyage; this document was issued amidst the First Barbary War, during which American vessels faced attacks from the Barbary pirates throughout the Mediterranean. The USS Philadelphia had been captured just a month earlier near Tripoli, where Captain William Bainbridge and his crew were captured and held hostage for nearly two years. Boasting choice signatures in this desirable four-language format, this is a spectacular example of a Jefferson-Madison document
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