I was at anchor in the Lyemoon passage, the Eastern entrance to the Harbour of Stoughton's. Her position really was nearer the Harbour and is indicated on the accompanying plan.
I caused enquiry to be made, and on Tuesday (28th Ultimo) saw Captain Nolloth the Senior Naval Officer on the subject.
On Wednesday (29th) as soon as the mail for England which then occupied attention had gone out, I convened an Executive Council of which the Attorney General is a member, and at that meeting the Wyoming question was discussed.
The Attorney General having time to consider the matter, it was arranged that it should be placed more deliberately before him.
Accordingly the enclosed letter was written on the 30th stating the facts of the case, and detailing the points on which his opinion and advice were requested.
I enclose Mr. Smales' answer. I have furnished Captain Nolloth with copies of this correspondence.
We had at the time sufficient Naval force to coerce the Wyoming, which however left her anchorage and proceeded northward on the afternoon of the 30th.