Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward
No. 26.]
Legation of the United States,
Paris,
February 10, 1865.
Sir: I have the honor to enclose a
communication, received this morning from his excellency the minister of
foreign affairs, informing me that the inquiry which had been instituted
by the minister of marine into the circumstances connected with the
appearance of the Olinde on the French coast had been transferred to the
department of his excellency the keeper of the seals and minister of
justice, with the view to judicial proceeding if occasion should exist
for them.
I hail the omen, and remain, very sincerely, yours,
Hon. William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, &c.
[Translation.]
Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys to Mr. Bigelow
Sir: I have had the honor to announce to
you that his excellency M. the minister of the marine and colonies
had instituted an administrative inquest in relation to the facts
which concern the appearance upon our coast of the vessel Olinde,
and to make known to you summarily the result.
I can add to-day that the examination into this matter has been
handed over to his excellency M. the keeper of the seals, minister
of justice, in order that judicial proceedings may be taken should
there be occasion for them.
Receive, sir, the assurances of the most distinguished consideration
with which I have the honor to be, your very humble and obedient
servant,
John Bigelow, Esq., Chargé d’Affaires of the United States at Paris.
