[62] *Mr. Rush, Acting Secretary of State, to Mr. McCulloch, collector.
March 28, 1817.
Sir: It has been stated to this Department that a vessel called the Congress (formerly, as is said, the Orb) has arrived at Baltimore, having returned from a voyage, in the course of which it is alleged that she has committed depredations upon the property of subjects of the King of Spain. It is also stated that this vessel was fitted out at and sailed from Baltimore, for the purpose of committing such depredations. You are requested to inquire into these charges, and transmit all the information you may be able to obtain relative to the true character and objects of this vessel, the conduct of those having any concern in her, and especially what cargo or articles were on board of her when she arrived, whence, as far as can be known, they were obtained, and how they have been disposed of. If there be any sufficient proof that this vessel either has committed, or that she intends to commit, a breach of any of the laws or treaties of the United States, you will advise with the district attorney, and cause prosecutions to be forthwith instituted against all parties concerned, and such other steps taken, whether with a view to prevent or punish offenses, as justice requires, and the laws will sanction. [63]
It has also been stated that a certain person, *known as Captain or Commodore Taylor, was some time ago engaged in Baltimore in fitting out one or more vessels to cruise against the commerce of Spain, that they did in fact afterward so cruise, and have lately arrived at Norfolk, and that there is reason to think that Captain Taylor is now in Baltimore. Should you be able to ascertain that there is any foundation for this charge, you will be pleased to cause the law to be put in force against him. [64]
- RICHARD RUSH,
Acting Secretary of State. - James H. McCulloch,
Collector of Customs, Baltimore.