Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: I enclose a copy of a despatch of the 27th instant, addressed to the department by Mr. Hawley, United States consul at Nassau, who is now here on leave of absence, setting forth that the officers of the customs there habitually grant clearances to vessels with false destinations, knowing that their object really is to attempt to break the blockade. It is possible that Mr. Hawley may, in part at least, be mistaken in this opinion. Even if it were otherwise, however, the offence, if any, is of course of a moral nature, and not, it is presumed, one in violation of either municipal or public law. Still, if you think that any good would result from your bringing the subject, informally or otherwise, to the notice of Earl Russell, you are authorized to take that course.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.