Legal Definitions - letters of safe conduct

Definition: Letters of safe conduct are formal written permission from the English sovereign to a citizen of a nation at war with England, allowing them to travel and ship goods to England or on the high seas without the risk of seizure. Passports or licenses from foreign ambassadors can also serve the same purpose.

Example: During times of war, a citizen of a country at war with England may need to travel to England for business or personal reasons. In such cases, they can apply for letters of safe conduct from the English sovereign, which will allow them to travel and conduct their business without fear of being seized or arrested.

This example illustrates how letters of safe conduct were used to facilitate trade and travel during times of war, while also ensuring the safety and security of individuals who were traveling to or from England.