[Untitled], January 19, 1865.
[Untitled]
Sir: On the 16th of July last, the steamer Ark, Augustus Williamson, master, left this port laden with lumber, &c. She belonged to John Bochino, a citizen of the United States, entirely loyal, and a resident of this city for many years past. The value of this vessel was not less than $25,000, and her cargo was worth about $2,000. In proceeding up the Rio Grande, and when about twelve miles above Bagdad, her machinery became slightly disabled, and she ran aground from eight to ten steps’ distance from the bank of the river on the Mexican side. While in this position and in Mexican waters, she was seized and taken possession of by the confederates, to wit, on the 7th of August, 1864, and carried to Brownsville, Texas. At this port she was condemned as prize, and subsequently sold as such to certain Mexican citizens, to wit, on the 23d October, 1864.
The steamer Ark cleared regularly at this port, receiving all essential documents, exemplifications of which are hereto annexed. She was also duly entered at the port of Bagdad upon arriving there.
The object of presenting this case to you, Mr. Seward, is to obtain restitution of this property, if possible. Mr. Bochino appears to have been divested violently thereof, in violation of the laws of nations, and in violation of the protection afforded our commerce in neutral waters, and Mr. Bochino has thought fit to lay this matter before you, sir, for such action as you. may deem fitting in the premises.
Respectfully,
J. S. WHITAKER, Attorney.
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.
John Bachino, the within named claimant, being duly sworn, deposes and says that all the facts set forth in the foregoing statement are true.
J. BACHINO.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 26th day of January, 1865.
CHARLES CLAIBORNE, United States Commissioner.
I, Charles Claiborne, United States commissioner for the eastern district of Louisiana, do hereby certify that John Beaching, the claimant herein, this day appeared before me at my office, and made oath to the facts set forth in this petition.
In faith whereof, I grant the presents under my signature and seal of office, at the city of New Orleans, this 26th day of January, in the year of our Lord 1865, and the eighty-ninth year of the American independence.
[seal.]