[NAVAL HISTORY]. PERRY, OLIVER HAZARD, Naval Officer. Autograph letter signed TO CAPTAIN JESSE DUNCAN ELLIOTT, n.p., n.d. [ca. September 1813]. 1 page, 4to, neat repairs to edges. PROBABLY RELATING TO THE BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE. Elliott (1782-1845) commanded the Niagara and was second in command under Perry at the Battle of Lake Erie on 10 September 1813 and later at the taking of Detroit. Elliot's role at Lake Erie became the subject of a bitter controversy lasting more than 30 years. At Lake Erie, "For over three hours...the Niagara was not brought into close action. She rendered Perry relatively little assistance while his flagship was being shot to pieces..." (DAB). In 1818, Elliot went so far as to challenge his former commander to a duel; Perry asked Elliot be court-martialed. Here, Perry writes on logistical concerns: "There is much complaint by the troops that they are unable to procure provisions from onboard the prizes. ....you will direct the comiss. officers to get provisions from other [sources] and not to run to me...for them."