Mr. Wright to Mr. Seward .

[Extract.]

No. 174.]

Sir:

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The proclamation of the President was received by the previous mail, and the subject has received due consideration.

On receipt of your circular dated the 20th of April, I immediately called upon Baron de Schleinitz, minister of foreign affairs, who had received the proclamation of the President, and he at once promptly informed me that, in his opinion, no apprehension need be entertained as to Prussian subjects engaging under the authority of the so-called Confederate States in fitting out privateers, or in any manner interfering with our commerce. Prussia has but few ports. Hers is not a sea-faring people, and the sympathies of the government and of the people are with the United States. Whatever danger may be apprehended on this subject must come from Bremen, Hamburg, and other ports situated in Oldenburg, Hanover, &c. Due vigilance will be used to prevent any such unlawful interference, and if any such be detected the proper authorities will be promptly advised thereof, and every effort will be made to suppress it. Not knowing whether your circular has been sent to the consuls, I have forwarded copies to several already.

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I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOSEPH A. WRIGHT.

His Excellency Hon. William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.