[Extract]

. . . It is said that the American privateer, the Surprize, which by Government order was stopped in Dunkirk, was given its freedom'to depart, but leaving behind its prizes, which were returned to their owners. It is alleged that at the request of the British Minister the vessel was detained there for a day or so, especially because this vessel had earlier departed from that port as a merchant vessel, and had at some distance armed as a raider, which is contrary to the laws of neutrality. In determining to arrest her it seems among other things that the Government wished to learn the facts rather than conduct a formal trial of the privateer . . .