Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Despatches from the department, numbered from 791 to 795, inclusive, have been received at this legation, likewise a bound copy of the report of the Agricultural Department for 1862.
With regard to the case of Mr. Eastman, referred to in your No. 791, of the 26th, and No. 794, of the 29th of December, I have concluded to postpone action upon the subject until I can learn whether Lord Russell has actually made any representation through Lord Lyons. I do not find in the depositions of the enlisted men, so far as they have been published, anything seriously to implicate Mr. Eastman; neither do I believe that he was really concerned in the affair. Commander Winslow’s subsequent proceedings and disavowal of all evil intention would seem to be sufficient to satisfy any requisition of the British government. * * * * * * * *
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. Wm. H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.