Mr. Stuart to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Having forwarded to Earl Russell a copy of the note which you did me the honor to address to me on the 23d of July last, respecting the case of the Will-o’-the-Wisp, I have been instructed to inform you, with reference to the observations therein contained relative to the inconvenience sustained by neutrals engaged in honest trade with Matamoras, that when Great Britain was at war with Russia her Majesty’s government did not enforce the blockade of a port near to the Russian frontier in order not to interrupt neutral commerce.
I have the honor to be, with high consideration, sir, your most obedient humble servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.