JONES, United States District Attorney for Maryland to Frederick Bernal, January 18, 1865

Mr. Jones to Mr. Bemal

Sir: I regret that your communication of the 4th instant has remained so long unanswered, owing to my professional engagements and severe illness in my family.

But now in reply thereto I say that I should hesitate seriously before I would direct the officers of the court to enter upon a British vessel. I admit that the request of the representative of the British government would seem to justify such action, and to estop that government from making any complaint, but as a measure of prudence I suggest that you refer the matter to your minister at Washington, so that he may bring it to the attention of the Department of State.

I am, &c,