Legal Definitions - sea brief

Definition: A sea brief, also known as a sea letter, is a document issued during a war by port authorities to a neutral vessel. It certifies the vessel's nationality, specifies the nature and destination of its cargo, and allows the vessel to sail under the neutral flag of its owner.

Example: In 1806, the Port of New York issued the last sea letter. After that, President James Madison discontinued the use of sea letters. Masters of vessels were required to lodge their registers, sea-letters, and passports with the consul upon entering a port for trade.

Explanation: The example illustrates how sea letters were used in the past to regulate trade during times of war. The document provided information about the vessel and its cargo to prevent smuggling and ensure that neutral vessels were not aiding the enemy. The discontinuation of sea letters by President Madison shows how the regulation of trade changed over time.