Mr. Seward to Mr. Schurz .
Washington, July 20, 1861.
Sir: I send you copies of a correspondence which has taken place between this government and Mr. Tassara respecting the detention of several American vessels at Cienfuegos, which were carried into that port by the privateer Sumter, with copies of documents which illustrate the subject.
I regret very much that the captain general did not assume responsibility to deliver up the vessels, and that Mr. Tassara also declined it. It must be apparent that the entire commerce of Spain, as well as that of this country, is exposed to serious embarrassment if her Catholic Majesty’s government, under whatever view of the subject, suffers privateers to find shelter, or supplies, or favor.
This government does not doubt that the Spanish government will promptly direct the release of the vessels, with their cargoes.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Carl Schurz, Esq., &c., &c., &c., Madrid.