Message of the President of the United States to the Two Houses of Congress, at the Commencement of the Second Session of the Thirty-seventh Congress

Mr. Preston to Mr. Seward.

[Extract]

No. 54.]

Legation of the United States,
Madrid, May 25, 1861.

Sir: * * * * * * * *

The proclamations of the President declaring the blockade of the ports of Virginia, North Carolina, and other southern States, have been transmitted to the government of her Catholic Majesty for its official notification.

No commissioners have yet arrived in Spain to apply for the recognition of the southern States which have seceded from the Union, and none will probably come until the question has been determined by the cabinets of London or Paris. * * * * * * *

I have the honor to remain your obedient servant,

W. PRESTON.

Hon. William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, &c., &c., Washington, D. C.