[173] *Mr. Hammond, collector, to General Richardson, United States marshal.
Collector’s Office, September 30, 1853.
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the brig Arrow, now lying at Clay-street wharf, is preparing and fitting out for a sea-voyage, under circumstances which are calculated to induce a suspicion that she is to be used to convey an armed force from this port against the citizens of the Mexican Republic.
I am also told that you have received some communication from the American minister in the city of Mexico, and are probably prepared by that and other instructions to endeavor to arrest any expedition fitting out for such purpose.
I deem it proper, therefore, to direct your attention to the above-named vessel, and to signify my readiness to co-operate with you to prevent any infraction of the neutrality laws of the country.
Will you be pleased to inform me as speedily as possible what course you shall determine to pursue.
Very respectfully, &c.,
- RICHARD P. HAMMOND,
Collector. - General Wm. H.
Richardson,
United States Marshal.