Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 29th of September, No. 542, and also of your despatch of the 30th of September, No. 543. The first of these papers is accompanied by a correspondence which has taken place between yourself and M. Drouyn de l’Huys on the subject of the detention of the insurgent cruisers at Bordeaux and Nantes. It is a ground of sincere satisfaction that you have since received from M. Drouyn de l’Huys assurances that the vessels at Nantes will not be suffered to pass into the hands of the insurgents.
I regret that in the discussion of this subject there arose an annoying cause for irritation on the part of the minister of France. The explanation you gave on that subject is approved, together with all your proceedings in regard to the question which is now disposed of in a manner which is equally compatible with the honor of both countries, and conducive to harmonious relations between them.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
William L. Dayton, Esq., &c., &c., &c.