Mr. Seward to M. Montholon
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 24th ultimo, relative to a communication addressed by the Swiss government to that of his Imperial Majesty upon the subject of the creation of a Swiss navy, and at the same time informing me that the government of France, before pronouncing its decision, have desired to obtain the views of the various maritime powers with regard thereto, and that for this purpose you are charged to ascertain the views of this government upon the subject.
In reply I have the honor to state that a similar communication to this government has been made and reported by the government of Switzerland; but that, in consequence of the war, in which we have so long been engaged in suppressing domestic insurrection, the consideration of the subject has been postponed until a period more favorable for it.
I beg you to assure Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys that the gravity of the question, and the courtesy of the imperial government towards the United States in regard to its solution, are highly appreciated.
Accept, sir, the renewed assurances of my high consideration.
The Marquis de Montholon, &c., &c., &c.