Mr. Mercier to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Upon referring to the note which you did me the honor to address to me on the 11th of this month on the subject of the embarkation of a certain number of French families who desire to leave New Orleans, I hasten to inform you that the admiral commanding the naval forces of his Majesty off the coast of the United States and among the Antilles has designated for the mission agreed upon between the Department of State and this legation either of the two war steamers whose names follow: The Lavoisier, commanded by Mr. Ribonert, captain of a frigate; the Milan, commanded by Mr. Clorie, captain of a frigate.
It is not for the admiral to determine precisely at this moment which will be the one that will go to New Orleans, as the selection must depend on the position of the ships of his division which are now in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico; but in any event, it can be only one of the two vessels above designated. I have, then, the honor to request you, sir, to be so good as to expedite the orders necessary for the blockading squadron, so that one or the other may be permitted to fulfil her mission.
I seize this occasion, sir, to renew to you the assurances of my high consideration.
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.