No. 691.

Mr. Bayard to Mr. Baker.

No. 60.]

Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your No. 49, of the 23d ultimo, and to approve your revival of the question of the custody of ships’ papers in Venezuelan ports, which it announces. You will press the subject with all due earnestness to a successful conclusion. The Department’s recent instruction respecting the matter will demonstrate its importance.

I am, &c.,

T. F. BAYARD.