Cover with manuscript 'Ships Letter, F. B. Bailey M.D. Ship's Surgeon' at top left franked with USA 1895 2c carmine 'Washington' issue (SG 270) tied on arrival in USA with barred numeral '12' NEW YORK maritime cancel in black, taxed with small 'T' in circle and 'COLLECT POSTAGE 6 CENTS' marking on front with NY arrival cds's on reverse dated MAR 10 1891. The full 6 page letter is enclosed written on 'U.S.S. Philadelphia' headed paper datelined 'Port-au-Prince, Haiti February 20, '91'. The letter was written by the Surgeon aboard the USS Philadelphia which was sent to Haiti to protect American citizens and interests but was really there to acquire the Mole St. Nicholas harbour for the American military. The letter mentions the filthy conditions, drill and target practices, a yellow fever outbreak and an English Man-o-War which was struck down with yellow fever. A rare and most probably unique item from the first US Military incursion in Haiti. A high quality exhibition piece.