Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Telegraphic information has been received here from the United States consul at Halifax that the authorities there have decided to require proceedings [Page 73] in admiralty on behalf of the owner of the steamer Chesapeake, in order that they may obtain restitution of the vessel. This decision has occasioned surprise and disappointment here. It was hoped that, as the Chesapeake was wrested from the owner by a flagrant act of piracy, she would have been restored to them by the colonial executive, without requiring the illegality of the seizure to be judicially proved. You will consequently protest against the decision adverted to.
I am sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.