Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.
My Lord: This department has information to the effect that some of the parties who were concerned in the piratical capture of the steamer Chesapeake, belonging to the mercantile marine of this country, who took refuge in the province of New Brunswick or Nova Scotia, and whose extradition was requested in my note to you of the 20th of December last, were ordered by the magistrate before whom they were brought to be delivered up, pursuant to the requisition. The prisoners, however, applied to a judge for a habeas corpus, which was granted, and they were released by his order, for reasons set forth in an opinion [Page 563] a copy of which has been received. The reasons referred to seem to be so erroneous and inconclusive, and so much at variance with the intentions of the parties to the treaty of Washington, that it is to be hoped the proceeding adverted to may not be final in regard to the persons to whom it relates. Awaiting, however, the result of any further proceedings which may take place upon the subject, it will be reserved with reference to a further communication to you.
I have the honor to be, with high consideration, my lord, your obedient servant,|
Right Hon. Lord Lyons, &c., &c., &c.