GRINNELL, Collector to Geo. S. Boutwell, May 10, 1869

Mr. Grinnell, collector, to Mr. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury.

Sir: In reply to your letter of May 8 instant, with reference to the fitting out of the steamer Quaker City from this port to cruise against Spanish commerce under a letter of marque, I have the honor to say that, previous to the receipt of this communication, I had been advised of the suspicious movements in and about this vessel, and had ordered the captain of the revenue-cutter McCulloch to hold his vessel in readiness for any emergency which might arise in this connection.

[50] Subsequently, the testimony against the vessel growing stronger, I ordered the cutter into the *East River, within sight of the suspected vessel, at the same time placing her under the espionage of intelligent officers on shore, detailed to watch and report her movements.

I would further add that I have conferred with the United States marshal, General F. C. Barlow, who is prepared to act with me should any emergency arise requiring-his co-operation.

Be assured that I shall continue to exercise the utmost vigilance in this and kindred cases, and promptly advise the Department of whatever steps I may feel constrained to take to vindicate the present attitude of the Government under the neutrality act of April 20, 1818.

Very respectfully,