Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.
My Lord: In reply to the letter of this department which was accompanied by a copy of your communication of the 7th instant, relative to the seizure of the British steamship Dolphin, the Secretary of the Navy refers to his letter of the 1st of this month, the substance of which I had the honor to communicate to you on the 7th instant, in which it was stated that the commander of the proper blockading squadron would be instructed to examine into the charges of improper treatment of the crew of the Dolphin and report thereon, as well as upon other statements in the protest of the master of the vessel, and represents that the Navy Department has not yet received the required report.
Every effort will be made on the part of this government to see that the law of nations is scrupulously observed in the exercise of the right of visitation and search, and redress will be promptly ordered in all cases of misconduct, mistake, or error as soon as the facts can be ascertained.
I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to your lordship the assurance of my high consideration.
Right Hon. Lord Lyons, &c., &c., &c.,