Mr. McCulloch, collector, to Captain Beard.
December 17, 1818.
Sir: Information has been verbally delivered here that a vessel called the Alerta has departed from this port and gone down the river without a certificate or permit of any kind. The same vessel has been reported to me by the consul of Portugal as intended to be armed and to cruise against the commerce of that kingdom. You will therefore immediately proceed to the place where she lies and fake possession of her and detain her until an investigation can be had. Demand if they have any papers in the first instance, and take whatever they produce, returning them to this office. You will please to note, particularly, whether she is armed, if any cargo is on board, what it is, what number of men, who are the officers, &c.
Your obedient servant,
- J. H. McCULLOCH,
Collector. - Captain Alexander Beard.