Lord Lyons to Mr. Seward.
Sir: It has been represented to me by British subjects at Memphis, in Tennessee, that the military authorities of the United States at that place threaten to expel all foreigners who have not enrolled themselves in the militia, and that in the mean time permits to bring goods to the place are refused to British subjects, for no other reason than because, being neutrals, they have declined to join the militia.
As it is entirely contrary to the intentions of the United States government that foreigners should be so treated, I do not doubt that proper instructions on the subject will be sent to the United States officers at Memphis without delay.
I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.