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causing a stoppage of navigation, to the great detriment of the mercantile community. Such conduct is deserving of the severest reprobation. The Viceroy and Superintendent of Customs have accordingly decided, in concert, on stringent measures for the seizure of the guilty persons, and the complete eradication of their manoeuvres. The Customs at present employ no steamers, and the guard-boats appertaining to this department do not make cruises at sea for the pursuit of smugglers, general orders being issued to the guard-boats attached to the various Offices directing them to cruise exclusively in the vicinity of their respective stations, and forbidding their going out to sea to search for smugglers. This measure is adopted in order that the false may be distinguishable from the true, and the exposure of vessels sailing under a false character may be facilitated. The Superintendent of Customs has further withdrawn and cancelled his Proclamation issued in November last, with reference to the employment of Steam Cruisers for the pursuit of ...

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