Lord Lyons to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Her Majesty’s government have carefully considered the request conveyed by your note to me of the 23d May last, that a United States expedition about to set out for the northern frontier might be authorized to cross the British boundary in pursuit of hostile Indians.
Her Majesty’s government having given the subject their best attention, find that there are so many objections to allowing hostile operations against the Indians to be carried on within the Queen’s dominions, that they feel obliged to desire me to inform you, that, for various reasons, the request cannot be acceded to.
I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.