Mr. Hunter, Second Assistant Secretary of State, to Mr. Field, Acting Attorney-General.

Dear Sir: In view of the doubt which may yet remain in the case of the Hornet, from the fact stated in the inclosed communications of the [Page 838] 19th instant from Marshal Barlow, I prefer not to take the responsibility of advising her release in advance of the arrival of Mr. Davis, who is expected to return tonight.

Very truly, yours,

W. HUNTER,
Second Assistant Secretary.

Hon. Wm. A. Field,
Acting Attorney-General.