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by the I. J. Commanding, and here stationed for the purposes of adjudicating such matters. The juris-diction of British Courts do not extend over an American ship, even when in a British port, for matters affecting the interior of the ship, its discipline, &c. - In these respects, wherever the American flag flies, it carries American juris-diction.
I deny the legality of the whole proceeding upon broad grounds, it is not necessary in my note to note the illegality of boarding a ship and making an arrest without even displaying a warrant or show of authority, which is contrary, I conceive, to English Law, and the impropriety of fining Capt. Nichols for an assault committed when he was not even on board his ship, which is contrary to English justice.
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Justice, I think, requires, and I request that reparation may be made for this violation of the laws of nations, and disrespect towards the United States, - that the person "Madison" be arrested, and delivered up to the U. S. Consul, that the police officer be properly punished, and that such steps be taken with the Magistrate, that he and others may, for the future, better understand their duties and powers, so that there may be no recurrence of such proceedings, of which this is not the first or only, though the most flagrant.
You speak of the matter being settled by the payment of the fine inflicted upon Capt. Nichols. No, Sir,
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trips,
1