Mr. Seward to Mr. Shufeldt.
Sir: Your despatch of January 21 has been received, and the information it contains communicated to the Navy Department.
Your proceedings in the case of the Oreto and her captures, and also in the matter of the Keannie, as reported by you, are approved. A representation will be made to her Majesty’s government in each of these cases. It is due to that government to say that it has thus far manifested no reluctance to consider the claims which have been presented to it for redress in cases of injuries committed by its agents, and certainly no other than the most friendly and cordial feelings towards the United States.
Almost the last despatches from Madrid brought us concessions in such a case, which arose at Malaga, as liberal in form and effect, having due reference to the magnitude of the case, as those we have accorded to the Spanish government in the case of the Blanche.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
R. W. Shufeldt, Esq., United States Consul General, Havana.