Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton.
Sir: Your despatch of October 21 (No. 366) has been received.
The subject of a license for the exportation of the French tobacco through our blockade has been heretofore much discussed here with a disposition to do an act of liberality towards the imperial government. But recently that disposition has been much embarrassed by the proceedings at Brest in regard to the Florida, and the discovery of the armament of pirates at Nantes and Bordeaux, for hostilities [Page 1326] against the United States. The subject will again be considered by the President, in view of the very prompt and honorable proceedings of the imperial government in arresting the armaments in the French ports, and Mr. Mercier will be informed of the decision.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
William L. Dayton, Esq., &c., &c., &c.