Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of April 8, No. 646, with its complement, namely, a copy of articles of association for the organization of a joint stock company, whose object is to carry supplies from British ports to the insurgents, under a contract with the insurgent cabal at Richmond. The project appears quite portentous on paper, and doubtlessly it is sufficient to require preparations to defeat it by our naval forces. These forces are now being vigorously augmented. The movements of our military and naval forces are likely to cause some new embarrassments to their schemes which these shameless confederates do not now appear to have anticipated. I am desirous not to multiply unnecessary complaints to her Majesty’s government. Those which have already been presented are sufficient to render the relation between Great Britain and the United States uncomfortable. Nevertheless, I do not think this new combination ought to be allowed to go into activity without special remonstrance. It is flagrantly incompatible with the neutrality which her Majesty’s government have proclaimed, and is directly subversive of peace and amity between the two countries. It obliges the United States [Page 640] for purposes of self-defence to impose restrictions upon trade with Great Britain and with her colonies. It sets a precedent for maritime nations which must be of evil effect. In this respect its consequences are incalculable, if Europe is destined to become involved in any general war.
Submitting to your discretion all questions of time, of form, and of language, the President expects you to remonstrate with her Majesty’s government upon the subject.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.