The Duke of Newcastle to Major General Doyle.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 18th of February, transmitting papers by which it appears that the judge of the vice-admiralty court at Halifax has decreed the restoration of the Chesapeake and her cargo to the owners.
The affair being thus brought to a conclusion, I am happy to take the opportunity of conveying to you an entire approval of your proceedings throughout this difficult case. Your conduct is considered by her Majesty’s government to have been altogether becoming and proper, and to have adequately vindicated the honor and dignity of her Majesty’s crown, without neglecting anything which was due to the government of the United States.
I have, &c.,