Mr. McCulloch, collector, to Captain Beard.
Collector’s Office, June 27, 1819.
Sir: It is necessary that you seize immediately and bring into port for trial the brig, (formerly the Paz,) now Patriota, or by whatever other name known, commanded by Stafford, and also, if in your power, the brig Patriota, (formerly the Fourth of July,) commanded by Thomas Taylor, or by whosoever else appears as captain or commander. It never was contemplated that any time should be given the vessel you were sent after, except to determine to enter or depart from the limits [Page 474] of the United States, according to the character she might bear of a merchantman or cruiser. You must make the attempt to seize these vessels at any rate, and if resistance is apprehended, *call on the officer of the Army, Navy, or militia of the United States, as has been already directed in such cases. You have the law on your side, and must proceed decisively, fearing nothing, though acting with prudence and moderation. [68]
A vessel of the United States Navy, it is expected, will be in readiness to join you in a day or two, as requisition has been made for that purpose. But do not wait unless deterred by a greater force and opposition.
I am, hastily, your obedient servant,
- JAMES H. McCULLOCH.
- Captain Alexander Beard.