Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Your despatch of the 18th of August, No. 760, has been received, together with a copy of correspondence which has recently taken place between yourself and Earl Russell on subjects connected with the African slave trade.
I will at once call on the United States consul general at Havana for such information as he may be able to give concerning the supposed new steam slaver mentioned by Earl Russell.
The Secretary of the Navy has under consideration the inquiry of his lordship concerning our present ability to send out cruisers according to the treaty stipulation for the special purpose of suppressing the trade in slaves. I will advise you promptly of the decision of the government, when made.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.