John Mckeon to Caleb Cushing , Attorney-General, January 16, 1856

Mr. McKeon, district attorney, to Mr. Cushing, Attorney-General.

Sir: I have been informed that Captain Faunce and his officers, of the revenue-cutter Washington, have been ordered to leave this port to cruise on the coast. His vessel is deemed by me very important as an aid to me in carrying out the neutrality laws. Her appearance here is of the highest moment at the present time. Moreover, these officers may be required as witnesses in the cases which have arisen out of the detention of the Northern Light, and it is proper that the officers of the cutter should be in such a position that 1 may call on them to attend court *at any moment. [512]

May I ask you to desire the Secretary of the Treasury to give such directions in the matter as will secure the object I have in view?

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,