No. 328.
Mr. Hunter to Mr. Bassett.

No. 238.]

Sir: Your dispatches Nos. 384 and 385, both dated the 22d of July last, were not received until the 2d instant. The Department cannot acconnt for their delay, especially as others of a subsequent date, the receipt of which has been acknowledged, reached here some time since. The facts contained in No. 384 were necessary to a full understanding of the question relative to the refugees in your country residence. It has been determined to apply to the Navy Department to order a man-of-war to Port au Prince with a view to your protection from insult. That the embarrassing question adverted to may be satisfactorily adjusted before she arrives is much to be desired.

I am, &c.,

W. HUNTER,
Acting Secretary.