Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.
My Lord: Referring to your lordship’s notes, heretofore acknowledged, concerning an alleged violation of the territorial jurisdiction of Great Britain, at the island of Eleuthera, by the United States steamer Rhode Island, in a chase of the insurgent steamer Margaret and Jessie, I have now the honor to place in your hands several copies of the proceedings of a naval court of inquiry,* which has been held for the purpose of investigating the transaction referred to. The proceedings appear to have been conducted with entire frankness and impartiality. All the evidence which was available was submitted to them. The President finds no grounds for questioning the correctness of the conclusion at which the court arrived, namely, that Commander Trenchard was desirous and anxious to avoid any violation of the British territorial jurisdiction while chasing the Margaret and Jessie, and that, in the case in question, no violation of the territorial jurisdiction was committed.
I have the honor to be, with high consideration, my lord, your obedient servant,
Right Hon. Lord Lyons, &c., &c., &c.
- Published in 1864, in pamphlet form, by the Navy Department.↩