[169] *Mr. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury, to Mr. Rumley, collector.
Washington, October 5, 1869.
Sir: I telegraphed you to-day that your conduct in the case of the Lady Sterling, alias Hornet, was approved by the Department. I also directed you to hold the steamer, under the eleventh section of the act of 1818, until you are directed by the President to release her. This you will do without reference to the action of the commissioner in the case now pending.
[Page 844]The Attorney-General will communicate with the district attorney, and also with the special counsel, who has been employed by yon, as I understand from your dispatch of the 4th instant, received to-day.
The legal proceedings for the purpose of ascertaining the character of the vessel will be probably conducted by the Attorney-General, through the district attorney and counsel associated with him.
I desire you, however, to keep me advised, either by letter or telegraph, of the progress of proceedings, and of any facts which you may deem important to a proper understanding of the case by the President.
Very respectfully,
Secretary.
D. Rumley, Esq.,
Collector of Customs, Wilmington, North Corolina.