We wish you to use your endeavors that no vessel enter as an American in
the ports of your district, which shall not be truly such, and that none
be sold under that name, which are not really of the United States.
That you give to me, from time to time, information of all military
preparations, and other indications of war which may take place in your
ports; and when a war shall appear imminent, that you notify thereof the
merchants and vessels of the United States within your district, that
they may be duly on their guard; and in general, that you communicate
to me such political and commercial intelligence, as you may think
interesting to the United States.
The Consuls and Vice-Consuls of the United States are free to wear the
uniform of their navy, if they choose to do so. This is a deep-blue coat
with red facings, lining, and cuffs, the cuffs slashed and a standing
collar; a red waistcoat (laced or not at the election of the wearer) and
blue breeches; yellow buttons with a foul anchor, and black cockades and
small swords.
Be pleased to observe, that the Vice-Consul of one district is not at
all subordinate to the Consul of another. They are equally independent
of each other.
The ground of distinction between these two officers is this. Our
government thinks, that to whatever there may be either of honor or
profit resulting from the consular office, native citizens are first
entitled, where such, of proper character, will undertake the duties;
but where none such offer, a Vice-Consul is appointed of any other
nation.
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