From all that I can see and learn I am satisfied that if the Government deem it their duty to prevent supplies being furnished from this side to the army on the island, and also the augmentation of their forces from among the citizens of the States, that an armed force stationed along upon the line of the Niagara will be absolutely necessary to its accomplishment. I have just received a communication from Colonel McNab, commanding His Majesty's forces now at Chippewa, in which he strongly urges the public authorities here to prevent supplies being furnished to the army on the island, at the same time stating that if this can be effected the whole affair could be closed without any effusion of blood. McNab is about 2,500 strong and constantly increasing. I replied to him that I should communicate with you immediately, as also with the governor of this State, and that everything which could would be done to maintain a strict neutrality. I learn that persons here are engaged in dislodging one or more steamboats from the ice, and, as is supposed, with a view to aid in the patriot expedition. I am, sir, with great consideration, your obedient servant, N. GANON, _United States Marshal, Northern District of New York_, WASHINGTON, _January 8, 1838_. _To the House of Representatives of the United States_: In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 5th instant, respecting the capture[7] and restoration of the Mexican brig of war the _General Urrea_, I transmit reports from the Secretaries of State and the Navy. M. VAN BUREN. [Footnote 7: By the United States sloop of war _Natchez_ off the coast of Texas.] WASHINGTON, _January 8, 1838_. _To the House of Representatives of the United States_: I herewith transmit to the House of Representatives a report,[8] and accompanying documents, from the Secretary of State, in compliance with a resolution of that body dated the 5th instant. M. VAN BUREN. [Footnote 8: Transmitting instructions and correspondence concerning the preservation of the neutrality of the United States in the civil wars and insurrections in Mexico and in any of the British Provinces north of the United States since 1829.] WASHINGTON, _January 8, 1838_. _To the House of Representatives of the United States_: I herewith transmit to the House of Representatives a report from the Secretary of State, in answer to a resolution[9] of that body dated the 5th instant. M. VAN BUREN. [Footnote 9: Calling for information of any acts endangering the amicable relations with Great Britain.] WASHINGTON, _January 8, 1838_. _To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States_: