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MARITIME RIGHTS.

clause of which contained the provision that, as between these two countries, the Flag (neutral) should cover the merchandise {i.e. the enemies'). In 1794 they made a treaty of commerce and navigation with Great Britain, one clause of which contained expressly the opposite provision, viz. that, as between these two nations, the flag should not cover the merchandise. When the war broke out between England and France the English proceeded (not only by virtue of their express stipulation with the United States, but in accordance with the law of nations on the subject), to seize French goods on board American vessels; the French on the other hand, in consequence of their treaty with the United States, could not seize English goods on board American ships. The French loudly complained of this inequality, and quoted the "most favoured nation" clause in their treaty with the United States as a ground for claiming reciprocity of right in this matter. The