Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: In regard to your directions contained in your No. 898, of the 5th inst, I am somewhat embarrassed by the course which the proceedings in the case of the Sea Bride have heretofore taken. By reference to my despatch No. 604, of the 25th of February last, you will perceive that I inferred from the language of Lord Russell to me that his views, on all questions in relation to that vessel and her cargo, were to be communicated to you through Lord Lyons.
Since then Mr. Mellen has sent to me copies of his correspondence with the colonial authorities at the Mauritius, which come down to a later date than those [Page 636] which you have received and transmitted with your present despatch. I presume the later papers will have reached you about the same time with my No. 653, of the 8th instant, on the same subject.
Inasmuch as this case is in some respects peculiar, I have concluded, before doing anything, to await your judgment after a full view of the correspondence. There is no injury likely to happen from delay. It seems to me as if something more would be necessary than merely to bring the matter to the attention of this government. As some nice legal distinctions may be involved in the positions to be taken, I should be glad to have some line of instructions to know how far to go.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c.,&c.