Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Rhode Island (1727–1820). ALS signed “Wm. Ellery Coll.,” one page, 7 x 8.75, December 7, 1796. Handwritten letter to Ray Greene, district attorney for Warwick, Rhode Island, questioning the status of foreign vessels being repaired in Rhode Island. In full: "I have this day transmitted to the Governor two letters from the British Vice Consul to me respecting certain repairs & alterations made in the French National Brig now in this Port, which he seems to think are not justified by the acknowledged Laws of Nations concerning Neutrality confirmed by the Act of the United States of the 5th of June 1794, with my answer to his first Letter, and a Report of the Surveyor of the Port. Permit me from a want of time to refer you to the Governor for all the information I have on this subject, who may wish to consult you on this occasion. You will recollect the case of the Brig Brutus which was repaired & converted into a Ship at Philadelphia, and that of a Schooner Privateer which was repaired at Charleston, both which cases were before the last Circuit Court held here." Housed in a handsome custom-made full red leather triptych folder. In fine condition, with a seal-related stain to the left edge.
In the 1790s, Britain and France were at war, and in 1793, Washington issued a neutrality proclamation, warning Americans not to aid either side. In 1794, America signed Jay's Treaty with Britain, which settled some pre-Revolutionary issues, and in 1796, Washington's Farewell Address urged Americans to stay away from foreign entanglements. Because of America's neutral stance, the British consul was understandably upset that an American port would repair a French vessel.
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