Mr. Seward to Mr. Mercier.
Sir: Adverting to your note of the 23d instant, designating a naval vessel for the purpose of taking certain French families from New Orleans, who are desirous of returning to their native country, I have the honor to inform you that a translation of the note has been transmitted to the Navy Department, with a copy of my note to you of the 11th instant, and that instructions have been given to the flag-officer of the Grulf blockading squadron, William W. McKean, in accordance therewith.
I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you, sir, the assurance of my high consideration.
Mr. Henry Mercier, &c., &c., &c.