From James Madison to D. Browder, 27 December 1806 (Abstract)
To D. Browder, 27 December 1806 (Abstract)
§ To D. Browder. 27 December 1806, Department of State. “I have recd. your letter of the 10th. inst. enclosing the Protest of Robert Selden, the Pilot, who lately conducted the Cambrian Frigate into the Chesapeake contrary to the President’s proclamation.1 This instrument not being considered a sufficient exculpation, you will be pleased to cause him to be prosecuted for a breach of the proclamation.”
Letterbook copy (DNA: RG 59, DL, vol. 15).
1. Selden’s protest has not been found, but on 27 December 1806 the Richmond Enquirer reported: “The pilot who accosted [the Cambrian] near the Capes, and who on learning who she was, refused to conduct her into port, was compelled to remain on board, and on peril of his life to carry her to the place where she anchored.”