Rhode Island Republican

Interesting Communication.

Charleston, (S.C.) August 16.

On Saturday evening last, John Mason, well known by several persons in this city to be a native citizen, born in Philadelphia, of a reputable family, was committed to the guard-house by three gentlemen, one of whom is known to be a merchant of this place. He was delivered into the custody of the guard in the name and behalf of a Capt. Higgs, as an absconding seaman. The tale which this man related of himself was as follows: That he had signed articles to go to Jamaica on board a vessel in the merchant service; that after signing articles, it was privately intimated to him that he was to be taken over the bar on pretence of a voyage to Jamaica and there to be put on board the British armed vessel now lying off our harbor: that on discovery of this infamous scheme of kidnapping, he had rendered a return of the money paid him in advance, and endeavoured to make his escape, but was pursued and put in confinement. By a successful piece of ingenuity of one of his friends, this man has escaped from this unfortunate situation; but it is notorious that this vessel has still her agents in this place, endeavoring to equip herself with men.

It is also understood & believed indisputable, that a supply of great guns and ammunition has been sent to her from this city. So that altho' not actually lying within this port, she is to all intents and purposes arming in our harbor against an ally. This subject calls for the prompt attention of our federal officers, and must excite universal indignation against those who are aiding and abetting her in committing so gross a violation of a neutrality at this time so important to our country.