in october 1887, riley and the association joined with other writers to petition the united states congress to attempt to negotiate international treaties to protect american copyrights abroad. the group became known as the international copyright league and had significant success in its efforts. when traveling to one of the league's meetings in new york city that year, riley was struck by bell's palsy. he recovered after three weeks but remained secluded to hide the effects of the sickness which he believed was caused by his alcoholism. he made another attempt to stop drinking alcohol with the help of a minister, but soon returned to his old habit.