Lord Lyons to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have had the honor to receive the note, dated the day before yesterday, in which you refer to the communication which I made to you, on the 20th ultimo, of the view taken by Vice-Admiral Sir Alexander Milne of the verbal announcement made by Commander Malcolm, of her Majesty’s ship Barracouta, to the consul of the United States at Nassau.
I learn with great satisfaction that instructions have been given to Rear-Admiral Wilkes to render, on all occasions of intercourse with the British navy, courtesies due to the naval officers of a friendly nation. I will lose no time in conveying this information to her Majesty’s principal secretary of state for foreign affairs, and to Vice-Admiral Sir Alexander Milne. I can confidently assure you, that it is the earnest desire of both that the intercourse between the naval officers of the two countries shall be conducted with the utmost courtesy and cordiality.
I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
Hon. Wm. H. Seward, Secretary of State.