Stephen A. Hurlbut to Hamilton Fish, May 25, 1872
No. 100. Mr. Hurlbut to Mr. Fish.
May 25, 1872. (Received May 29.)
Sir: I have the honor to forward a copy of my communication on the subject of the Virginius, addressed to Captain Edwin White, of the United States ship Kansas, in Aspinwall.
I am informed, by a letter from Mr. Perry, United States consul, that the Virginius went to sea on 26th May, escorted by the Kansas, and followed out at a safe distance by the Spanish man-of-war Pizarro.
Captain White, like a prudent commander and good sailor, as he is, was cleared for action, and there is no doubt, that if interfered with, the Spanish navy would have lost a ship.
Mr. Perry has probably reported in full to the Department.
I earnestly hope that Congress may give the Navy ships enough to answer our pressing necessities.
I am, &c,