Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Your despatch of the 31st ultimo (No. 465) has been received. With reference to instruction No. 651, of the 11th instant, upon the case of the Alexandra, and the question involved therein, I have to observe that you will have learned that I regard your previous communications to Earl Russell on the subject as an execution of my instruction by way of anticipation. The case is relieved also by the hopes you authorize me to indulge in regard to the holding of the vessels until the decision as to the Alexandra. You will exercise your discretion concerning the matter.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.