Republic of Mexico–Colonel on special duty., January 21, 1866

Republic of Mexico–Colonel on special duty.

I would respectfully call your attention to the following facts: That on the 14th of this month I was steaming down the river on the government despatch boat; when about six miles above Bagdad, we saw several luggers and lighters tied up on the Mexican side of the river, within the jurisdiction of my command, which, as you will see by the accompanying certified translation of my appointment, included not only Bagdad but its dependencies.

I boarded and examined said lighters and found the sloop Helena had a cargo of merchandise, without clearance or pass of any kind, and immediately seized her for violating the laws of revenue of the Mexican republic. The fact of finding said lighter without even the regular invoice of the owners of said merchandise was conclusive evidence as to the illegality other presence out of port. I had her turned into the port of Bagdad, and appointed a commission to inquire into the case, and by said commission the goods were legally condemned and confiscated. Said merchandise was brought over to this side as belonging to the government I have the honor to represent, regularly entered with all necessary papers in order, and were seized by the military authorities and by them held. I have since been informed that the goods were going to be released on claim of the former owners, residents of Matamoras.

I would respectfully represent that the facts of the case occurred beyond the jurisdiction of the United States; that the seizure was in accordance to our laws; and that I request that said goods be held until the action of the United States government can be obtained, for which purpose I remit the proper papers to Washington by first mail.

I would further state that there were in the despatch boat with me Captain Conklyn and Mr. Price; the first, provost marshal general of the district, and the second, of the secret service, who saw the whole facts of the capture, and can testify to the facts being as represented.

I beg your earnest attention to the above, and that said goods being seized in the first instance by the troops under your command, that they continue so to be held until the matter can be laid before your Secretary of State by our minister at Washington.

I avail myself of the opportunity of repeating to you the assurances of my highest respect.