Mr. Hoar, Attorney-General, to Mr. Barlow, United States marshal.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yesterday, relating to expeditions for Cuba in violation of the neutrality laws, and of your telegram this morning respecting the steamer Hornet.
[Page 839]While the steamer Hornet is on the high seas, not having left our ports unlawfully, I can see no authority in law for seizing her, unless she is an armed piratical vessel, and we have no duty respecting her different from that which belongs to all civilized governments. Until further evidence or information is received concerning her, I do not see that we are called upon to employ the naval force of the United States in arresting or detaining her. But it is our duty under the neutrality laws to prevent, if possible, the departure of any expedition from this country of a hostile character against a nation with which we are at peace. *I therefore desire that you shall do all in your power to prevent-any such expedition joining the Hornet, or in any manner violating the laws of the country, and you are authorized to employ a revenue-cutter whenever, in your judgment, it shall be necessary to accomplish that object. The Secretary of the Treasury informs me that he has given orders to furnish a revenue-cutter whenever you apply for it for that purpose. [160]
Very respectfully,
Attorney-General.
Francis C. Barlow, Esq., United States Marshal, New York City.