Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Since the date of my last to you I have received from the department despatches numbering from 389 to 398, inclusive, with the exception of 394. * * * * * * * I have besides a copy of a printed circular, No. 27, concerning the resolutions of the New. York Chamber of Commerce on the subject of the depredation of No. 290.
I may as well note the fact here, that on an examination of the files of your despatches I perceive that no No. 364 is to be found among them. By turning back the various acknowledgments in my own letters I see that it has never been noted as received. The further instructions in respect to the depredations of No. 290 seem to have been anticipated by my action last week. A copy of my formal representation to Lord Russell was forwarded with my despatch No. 262. Since that time I have received only a brief note of acknowledgment in his lordship’s own handwriting, a copy of which is transmitted herewith. I yesterday heard of rumors flying about in the club-houses that the law officers of the crown had intimated some doubts of the strength of the government position. But as the same thing happened last year in the Trent case, I attach little importance to such indications. The vacancy created by the resignation of Sir John Harding as Queen’s advocate has been filled by the appointment of Sir Robert Phillimore, whose authority on questions of international law ranks very high. Certain articles on the French proposition for mediation, signed Historicus, which appeared in the London Times a few days ago, are attributed to him.
In the mean time the outfits of vessels to run the blockade continue and multiply. I do not as yet obtain the necessary evidence to prove the preparation of war ships, but the arrival in the Arabia of Commander Maury and eight or nine rebel officers, including a Charleston pilot, at Liverpool, would seem to indicate that something is soon to be attempted. I am now waiting for further details of information from the respective consuls, in order to comprise in one view a statement of the hostile operations now going on in the ports of the [Page 11] kingdom, which I propose to submit to the consideration of her Majesty’s government.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State Washington, D C.