Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Notwithstanding the adverse news lately flowing in from America to the sympathizers with the rebels respecting the loss of their vessels and outfits, the effect of which has been to put an end to insurance on such risks, I continue to receive information of the preparation of such adventurers. One most flagrant instance has been presented to my attention by Mr. Dudley, the consul at Liverpool. I considered it so important that I have felt it my duty to make a representation of it to her Majesty’s government. The uniform ill-success which has attended all my preceding remonstrances especially in the very parallel case of the gunboat Oreto, makes me entertain little hope of a more favorable result now. But the record would hardly seem complete without inserting it.
As Captain Craven, of the Tuscarora, has sent notice to this legation of his departure from Gibraltar and his arrival at Cadiz, I have taken the responsibility of asking him to come to Southampton for orders. Should [Page 118] it be possible to take any measures with prudence to break up the voyage of this vessel, I shall advise him of the fact.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.