Office of the Historian

[700] *Commandant Newton, United States Nary, to Commander Randolph, United States Navy.

Commandant’s Office,
Navy-Yard, Pensacola, September 6, 1849.

Sir: Your letter of the 4th instant, inclosing a copy of your letter to Lieutenant-Commandant E. Farrand, of the Flirt, and his letter to you in reply, has been received. I was glad to be informed of your determination to raise the blockade of Round Island. Indeed, I am of opinion that you ought not to have so proclaimed it without special orders from the Government at Washington.

I am glad to hear that there is a prospect of the band of adventurers lispersing, and that their contemplated enterprise will be broken up.

I am not definitely informed as to the destination of the steamers Alleghany and Vixen. I saw it stated in the newpapers, several days [Page 709] since, that the former had left Norfolk under sealed orders; the latter vessel, I believe, is still in that port, preparing for sea.

I wrote yon by the mail of the 31st ultimo, and again on the 3d instant by the Creole, both of which letters I hope you have received.

I have forwarded copies of your letter of the 4th, and its inclosures, and a copy of this letter, to the Navy Department.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

  • JOHN THOMAS NEWTON,
    Commandant.
  • Commander Victor M. Randolph,
    Commanding United States Sloop Albany, off Horn Island.