James Monroe signed act passed just days before war broke out between the U.S. and England in the War of 1812, here providing instructions to armed vessels called to defend U.S. waters. With a fleet heavily outnumbered by the British Navy, the young and upstart United States had to improvise by arming its private ships to defend its territorial waters. That act printed here is signed as its conclusion by James Monroe who served as Secretary of State during the War. Act reads in part, ''You are to pay the strictest regard to the rights of neutral powers and the usages of civilized nations…You are particularly to avoid even the appearance of using force or seduction with a view to deprive such vessels of their crews or of their passengers…'' Single page measures 8'' x 6.5''. Folds and light creasing, overall very good to near fine with a very bold signature.