Four British Sailors Jump Ship—and Find American Liberty at Port Townsend

On Thursday night last, while the steamer was lying at Esquimalt, four British sailors stowed themselves on board, and were not discovered until the ship neared the American side. Capt. Staples, not liking the idea of aiding runaways, determined to return them to their old quarters on board the steamer, and accordingly restrained them from going on shore at Port Townsend. Information was laid before United States Commissioner Van Bokkelen, who issued a document requiring cause to be shown why they were deprived of liberty. These men were consequently liberated, and are now in the fullest enjoyment of American citizenship. The reason Capt. Staples was deterred from landing them here was on account of a virtual denial by the British, at Victoria, of the existence of any extradition treaty. When any of their troops land here, they are free; at least, until it suits Gov. Douglas to return the rascals.