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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

SPECIAL MESSAGE ON COMMERCIAL DEPREDATIONS 1 - Thomas Jefferson, The Works, vol. 10 (Correspondence and Papers 1803-1807) [1905]

Edition used:

The Works of Thomas Jefferson, Federal Edition (New York and London, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904-5). Vol. 10.

Part of: The Works of Thomas Jefferson, 12 vols.

About Liberty Fund:

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SPECIAL MESSAGE ON COMMERCIAL DEPREDATIONS1

December 18, 1807.

To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States:—

The communications now made, showing the great and increasing dangers with which our vessels, our seamen, and merchandise, are threatened on the high seas and elsewhere, from the belligerent powers of Europe, and it being of great importance to keep in safety these essential resources, I deem it my duty to recommend the subject to the consideration of Congress, who will doubtless perceive all the advantages which may be expected from an inhibition of the departure of our vessels from the ports of the United States.

Their wisdom will also see the necessity of making every preparation for whatever events may grow out of the present crisis.

[1 ]Jefferson wrote Gallatin:

December 18, 1807.

Monroe will be here on Sunday; he will bring us no new information, as far as can be judged from his letter; but on the subject of the proclamation, should the message wait for him? I will keep it back till half after ten o’clock for your opinion, either written or verbal. Affectionate salutations.

I have just received your note, and am clearly for the exception; but come here before half after ten, and let us be together before the message goes out of our hands.