Richmond (VA) Dispatch, "Coasting Vessels," December 10, 1855

            Coasting Vessels. 

   The attention of the Legislature it is to be hoped, will be directed to the establishment of an efficient system of police for the purpose of examining all coasting vessels that may leave the ports of Virginia, and preventing the escape of fugitive slaves. We would again suggest the propriety of purchasing, equipping, arming and manning one or two small vessels to board and search all vessels bound to free ports in the United States. These cruisers should be stationed in Hampton Roads, for any examination made this side of that point would be perfectly useless. The cost of purchasing such vessels, and their maintenance for five years, would not amount to as large a sum as is lost in one negro stampede.