JAMES MONROE (1758 - 1831) Fifth President of the United States who negotiated the Louisiana Purchase and promulgated the Monroe Doctrine. Partly-printed D.S. ""Jas. Monroe"" as Secretary of State 1p. 7 1/2"" x 6 1/4"" Washington Aug. 28 1812 a printed circular headed: ""Additional Instructions to the public and private armed vessels of the United States"". Three months after President James Madison declares war on Great Britain Monroe clarifies rules for seizure of ships at sea. In part: ""...The public and private armed vessels of the United States are not to interrupt any vessels belonging to citizens of the United States coming from British ports...laden with British merchandize in consequence of the alledged repeal of the British Order in Council but are on the contrary to give aid and assistance...such vessels and their cargoes may be dealt with on their arrival..."". Trimmed at top excising the recipient's name else near fine. With engraving.