Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: In connexion with No. 758, of the 4th instant, on the subject of the sale of the steamer Georgia, I now forward a copy of Lord Russell’s reply of the 8th instant to my note to him, a copy of which was transmitted with that despatch. It appears from this that the British government has become so much perplexed by the inconsistencies in which a toleration of this new mode of abusing their neutrality is involving them, as to decide upon a rule prohibiting all transfer or dismantling of belligerent vessels of either party in their ports. This is very well so far as it goes. The exclusion, though applying equally to us, is nominal in that case, whereas it will have its force in circumscribing the operations of the sympathizers with the rebels, particularly in the port of Liverpool.
The causes which may have led to this decision are perhaps to be thus explained. Simultaneously with my note to Lord Russell, I addressed a circular to the respective commanders of the three war vessels at that time cruising in the Channel, the Niagara, the Kearsarge, and the Sacramento, apprising them of the information which I had received from Mr. Wilding, as well as of my opinion that the Georgia might be made lawful prize whenever and under whatever colors she should be found sailing on the high seas.
[Page 278]It turned out that the Georgia had been engaged by the Portuguese government for one month, at the price of a thousand pounds, to carry the mails from Lisbon to their African possessions. She was, however, to be transferred from Liverpool to that port on the responsibility of Mr. Bates, the nominal owner, and under British colors. The Count Lavradio, the Portuguese minister, on learning the precise state of the case, interposed no objection to my proceeding, but simply expressed a hope that, if captured at all, the vessel might be taken before reaching Lisbon to enter upon the engagement. I have no doubt, although I do not know it from information, that the matter has been brought to the attention of the British government by parties at Liverpool, with a view to secure its protection. The difficulties that might ensue from adopting any positive course doubtless led to that decision which is found communicated in his lordship’s note.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.