- 314
Continental Congress
Description
- paper
Broadside, folio (16 5/8 x 9 7/8 in.; 422 x 250 mm); browned, formerly folded, right margin frayed without affecting text, some spotting, some dampstains in top margin. Matted.
Literature
Condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The Continental Congress revises the law of Prizes.
The Congress orders that the following may be lawfully taken: all vessels or goods belonging to an enemy, and all contraband goods belonging to any nation. Goods judged contraband include cannon, mortars, fire-arms and weapons of all kinds. The proper disposition of these captures is outlined, and the portions due to officers maimed or killed in the line of duty is described.
Of particular interest is the treatment of recaptured slaves: "On the recapture by a citizen of any Negro, Mulatto, Indian, or other person, from whom labour or service is lawfully claimed by a state or a citizen of a state, specific restitution shall be adjudged to the claimant ... But if the service of such Negro, Mulatto, Indian or other person ... shall not be legally claimed within a year and a day from the sentence of the court, he shall be set at liberty."