For two years thereafter the United States was almost the only important neutral nation not involved in the welter of conflict on land and sea, and trade everywhere sought the protection of the Stars and Stripes.

England had swept her own rivals, men-of-war and merchantmen, from the face of the waters.

France and Holland ceased to carry cargoes beneath their own ensigns.

Spain was afraid to send her galleons to Mexico and Peru.

All the Continental ports were begging for American ships to transport their merchandise.