Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.
My Lord: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your lordship’s note of the 1st instant, which informs me her Majesty’s government had learned with surprise and regret that the acting British consul at Mobile had put a large sum of money on board of a British ship-of-war at that port, on account of the State of Alabama, and that, in compliance with his requisition, the money had been conveyed to Havana.
Your note further informs me that her Majesty’s government have disapproved this proceeding of the said consul, and had, in consequence thereof, peremptorily dismissed him from the public service.
I am instructed to express to you the President’s satisfaction with this prompt and just vindication by the British government of its authority and honor, and of its determination to compel respect by its agents for the laws and authority of the United States.
Trusting that you will communicate these sentiments to her Majesty’s government. I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to your lordship the assurance of my high consideration.
Right Hon. Lord Lyons, &c., &c., &c.