Mr. Fish, Secretary of State, to Mr. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury.
March 20, 1869.
Sir: This Department is informed by the minister of Spain that he has official information to the effect that, at the port of Jacksonville or [Page 771] Fernandina, in Florida, a steamer is being fitted out by the name of Salvador, (or perhaps some other name,) for the purpose of committing depredations in the character of a privateer, under the flag of the Cuban insurgents, upon the maritime commerce of Spain. It is supposed to be the intention of the steamer to leave port, under the United States flag, to be afterward replaced by that of the insurgents referred to. It is, therefore, suggested that such instructions be given to officers subject to the orders *of your Department as may prevent, or lead to the punishment of, any offense which may be committed against the laws of the United States by the parties who may be engaged in such an illegal enterprise. [27]
I have the honor to be, &c.,
Hon. George S. Boutwell,
Secretary of the Treasury.