No. 59.
Mr. Garland to Mr. Bayard.
Washington, October 20, 1888. (Received October 22.)
Sir: By your communication of the 17th of October, 1888, you request “an expression of my views on the arrangement proposed by the British Government in regard to the disposal of the vessels” Grace, Dolphin, and Anna Beck. The arrangement referred to is that the United States authorize a re-appraisement of the schooners Grace and Dolphin, and that instructions be given in the case of the Anna Beck that bonds of the owner may be accepted, subject to the final settlement of the question. The libels against the vessels were submitted on a stipulation, dated the 10th day of September, 1887, by W. M. Drake, on behalf of the masters. They were, on or about the 3d day of October, 1887, after hearing, condemned, and, in pursuance of the terms of the stipulation, were ordered to be sold at Port Townsend. The time for appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States has long since expired. On the 25th day of August, 1888, the United States marshal Tor Alaska reported:
That the owner of the Anna Beck, Grace, and Dolphin, Capt. J. W. Warren, of Victoria, B. C., notified me [him] that he prefers that the Grace and Dolphin should be Bold without further delay, and the Anna Beck also, unless he can bond that vessel without instituting an appeal to the Supreme Court or making the journey to Sitka for that purpose.
The aggregate tonnage of the three vessels, with the Ada (for which no owner has been heard from), is but 279 tons. The vessels, if not sold, will soon be substantially valueless. If attempt be made to keep them over the winter a total loss may result. I therefore adhere to the views expressed in my former communication, that the interest of all concerned will be best subserved by an early sale, and earnestly hope I may receive a prompt communication from you concurring therein.
Very respectfully,