Richmond (VA) Dispatch, "Fugitive Slave Police," November 28, 1855

     Fugitive Slave Police.

   In order to establish such a police as would effectually break up the escape of negroes in coasting craft, the State should purchase one or more small and fast sailing vessels, and station them near the Capes. The expense would be inconsiderable, compared with the saving. One stampede of negroes, such as has lately occurred here in Richmond, costs more than the purchase, manning and support of two such vessels for five years. 

   A river police would be useless, for no examination of vessels, at any point short of the Capes, can afford an entire safeguard against the escape of slave property.