Laird Brothers to assistant collector of her Majesty’s customs, Liverpool.

Sir: We beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of this date, informing us that you have been directed to place an officer on board the iron-clad vessel now nearest completion, in the great float, Birkenhead, and that he has directions to seize her in case any attempt be made to remove her from where she is at present.

We have given Mr. Morgan, the surveyor of customs, an order of admission to the iron-clad (which is named the El Tousson) now lying in the Birkenhead float, which order he will show to our watchman or ship-keeper when going on board.

We are, respectfully, your obedient servants,

LAIRD BROTHERS.

W. G. Stewart, Esq., Assistant Collector of her Majesty’s Customs, Liverpool.