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such a thing as free speech among them is a tradition, and the reign of terror rules everywhere.
Still those I saw were very grateful for the assurances given, and I doubt not many of them will avail themselves of our protection.
Finally, permit me to commend to you the good conduct, uniform throughout, of both officers and men, and to thank, through you, Midshipman Pearson, of the Wabash, who commanded her cutter, for the valuable assistance he was always, in fire and out of fire, ready to render.
Very respectfully,
T. A. Stevens, Lieutenant Commanding.
Capt. Stevens, of the United States gunboat Ottawa, is authorised by Flag-Officer Du Pont to assure the peaceable citizens living on the banks of the St. Mary's River, that they will be protected in their persons and property; that it is his desire they should return to their homes, where nobody will come near to harm them.
T. A. Stevens, Lieutenant Commanding.