Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-eighth Congress, Part I

Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.

Department of State, Washington, April 15, 1863.

My Lord: With reference to the case of the British steamer Peterhoff, I have the honor to acquaint you that it has been determined that any interference by the executive government at present with a view to the restitution of that vessel is not advisable.

The United States attorney at New York, however, has been instructed to prosecute the case to a result with all practicable expedition.

I have the honor to be, with high consideration, your lordship’s obedient

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Right Hon. Lord Lyons.