The Collected Library, Including Americana and Early Photography

U.S. Ship Delaware, Mahon, February 2, and 18, 1835. Two Bifolium sheets, 10 x 8 in. (254 x 203 mm.), and 12 1/2 x 8 in. (317 x 203 mm.) Letters signed by Commander Daniel T. Patterson to Lt. Comd. Hiram Paulding of the USS Shark. The first, in part: "Proceed with the U.S. Schooner Shark under your command to the Port of Marseilles...Receive on board such moneys as they may have to transmit...I learn from Marseilles that cholera exists in that city to a limited extent, you will use ever possible precaution... it is stated that the King of the French has recalled his minister from the United States, and notified that...his passports were at his service...be pleased to consult with our consul...as to the prudence of taking on board the funds...It is very desirable to obtain as accurate information as possible, relative to the measure, or supposed views of the French Government in relation to the United States...I also recommend caution in approaching all French vessels of War..." The second, in part: "It is of the utmost National importance that I should with the least possible delay receive information from France on which I can relay in the present position of affairs between the United States and that Government..." Both docketed on verso. Creasing from old folds, wax seal residue on one, scattered light foxing.

Interesting pair of letters from Commodore Daniel T. Patterson (1786-1839) head of the Mediterranean Squadron, to Hiram Paulding, regarding ongoing tensions between France and the United States.

In 1831, the two nations negotiated a treaty that called for France to pay spoilation claims on American goods seized during the Napoleonic Wars. France paid out similar claims to other European nations, but refused to pay the United States, which greatly enraged President Andrew Jackson. After a few years of diplomacy, the matter went unresolved, and by early 1835 Jackson was prepared authorize the seizure of any French property equal to the amount owed. Word of this plan reached the French government, who demanded Jackson apologize, which was in turn refused. Fearing an outbreak of war between France and the United States, England eventually interceded, and helped mediate a resolution.

Hiram Paulding (1797-1878) was a career U.S. Naval Officer who served with distinction from the War of 1812 through the American Civil War, eventually attaining the rank of Rear Admiral.