Office of the Historian

[52] *Mr. Pierrepont, district attorney, to Mr. Hoar, Attorney-General.

Office of the Attorney of the United States for the Southern District of New York,
41 Chambers street, May 12, 1869.

Sir: Your letter of yesterday and telegram of to-day, relating to the Quaker City, are received. I had already taken means to get evidence upon that subject. I have also seen the collector. I believe the steamer is intended for an unlawful expedition, but as yet no one is willing to make any affidavit sufficient to warrant me instituting judicial proceedings. After full interview with the collector, he has agreed to keep the cutter in such position that the Quaker City cannot possibly escape. Within a few days I believe that I shall be in possession of evidence sufficient to libel the steamer. I think I can assure you that she will not escape on any unlawful errand.

Very respectfully, yours,

EDWARDS PIERREONT,
United States Attorney.

Hon. E. R. Hoar,
Attorney-General.