War Department William Rawle Esq Timothy Pickering Sec. of War to William Rawle War Office Oct. 30 1795. Sir, I inclose a letter from the Collector of the Port of Philadelphia, with the report subjoined of the Surveyor, that the Schooner Ballahoo, lying at Willing’s Wharf in that port, has since her arrival been altered, and fitted to carry four guns, and undergone changes that will admit her of carrying more. The persons fitting her, say they are going to arm her merely in their own defence: but to what abuses may such practices subject us? Is it lawful for citizens of the United States, in time of peace especially, to arm their vessels, unless commissioned by the Government for the purpose? Were there any law for the object security might be taken of the concerned, that the application of the Schooner arms should be confined to her own defence: but when armed, and near the ports of any of the belligerent powers, nothing can be easier than a collusive surrender.
As the vessel is reported to be on the point of sailing, I pray you to favour me with an immediate response. I have but just received the report.
Very respectfully yours Timothy Pickering Wm Rawle Esq.