Richard E. Lee letter May 16, 1793.

Richard E. Lee to the Governor.
May 16th
Norfolk
D'r Sir:
I herewith inclose a letter from the British Consul on the subject of an interference of the civil authority against the citizens of the United States engaged in Privateering against the British. In conformity to this letter, I called a court of Aldermen, who decided that no step should be taken in the business untill your instructions was rec'd, as the proclamation of the President did not warrant it. I have therefore to request your reply fully on this subject as soon as possible.
I am, D'r Sir,
Your Hum. Servant.

                                                                                              Norfolk, May 16th, 1793.
Sir:
According to the tenor of the Proclamation issued by the President of the United States & the Governor of Virginia, it appears to me that the civil authority is required to use all lawful means to prevent American Citizens from any interference in the war now carried on by certain European powers. I therefore think it is my duty to acquaint you that here are the Masters of two British vessels lately taken by an armed schooner, under French colors, on board of which armed vessel was one Innels, who acted as Lieutenant of Marines in the capture of the said vessels, & who is now in this Borough at Mr. Cannons, and to submit to your consideration whether such conduct comes within the meaning of the said proclamation, and whether the said Innels should not be prevented from returning to acts of Hostility against British subjects.
I am with much respect, sir,
Your most obed't Hum. Serv't,
                                                                                                           JN. HAMILTON.
Mr. Innels & the two captains intend to leave town immediately.
                                                                                                     RICH'D E. LEE, Esq.

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Source of Information

CALENDAR of VIRGINIA STATE PAPERS and OTHER MANUSCRIPTS, FROM AUGUST 11, 1792, TO DECEMBER 31, 1793, PRESERVED IN THE CAPITOL AT RICHMOND. ARRANGED AND EDITED BY SHERWIN McRAE. VOLUME VI. RICHMOND: A. R. MICOU, SUPERINTENDENT PUBLIC PRINTING. 1886