Lord Lyons to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Representations have been made to her Majesty’s government in behalf of British subjects, now prisoners of war in this country, who allege that they were, when captured by the United States forces, serving against their will in the ranks of the enemy.
Her Majesty’s government, have in consequence, directed me to ask of you that the cases of any such British subjects, taken prisoners of war, as may have been forced against their will into the service of the enemy of the United States, may be inquired into fairly and dealt with leniently.
I have the honor to be, with high consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
Hon. William H. Seward.