Mr. Seward to Senor Tassara.
Sir: Referring to your note of the 7th instant, and to my reply of the 9th instant, relative to the capture of the Victor, I have now the honor to inform you that it appears that a report upon the subject had previously been received by the Secretary of the Navy from the commander of the Juniata, which represents that the Victor, at the time of her capture, was distant about eight miles from the Cuban coast, and that, although her papers were mainly correct, yet by the admission of one of the crew, as well as from the nature of the circumstantial evidence connected with the case, the vessel was undoubtedly intended to run the blockade. Though bound ostensibly for Matamoras, her cargo is stated to have been entirely unsuited for that place.
Mr. Welles will, however, require a further report upon the subject, which, when received, may enable this department to address to you an additional communication in regard to it.
I avail myself of this occasion to offer to you renewed assurances of my very high consideration.
Seňor Don Gabriel Garcia y Tassara, &c., &c., &c.