Mr. Seward to Mr.
Geofroy
Department of State,
Washington,
April 30, 1864.
Sir: Recurring to your note of the 17th
instant, relating to the importation of brandies and spirits at New
Orleans, notwithstanding the prohibition thereof, [Page 218] I have the honor to enclose, in reply, a
copy of a letter of the 26th instant, from the Secretary of the
Treasury, on the subject, from which it appears that foreigners, as well
as citizens of the United States, are permitted to engage in such trade,
under certain restrictions, explained in the printed regulations which
accompany his letter. The instructions to consuls of the United States,
mentioned in the last paragraph of that letter, were given some time
since.
Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my high consideration.
Mr. L. de Geofroy, &c., &c., &c.
Mr. Chase to Mr. Seward
Treasury
Department,
April 26, 1864.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of the 22d instant, enclosing a translation
of the note of M. de Geofroy, relative to the alleged introduction
of brandies and spirits into New Orleans, notwithstanding the
prohibition made by the instructions of this department, when the
blockade of that port was relaxed.
Brandies and spirits may be transported to New Orleans under the 38th
regulation of trade, issued September 11, 1863, by the special
direction of the supervising special agent, sanctioned by the
general commanding; and I have reason to believe that all spirituous
liquors sold in that city are transported thither in accordance with
that regulation.
The operation of this rule is not restricted to citizens of the
United States, but subjects of foreign governments are at liberty to
avail themselves of the advantages of such trade on complying with
the laws and regulations referred to.
To accomplish this, however, it will probably be necessary for your
department to issue instructions to United States consuls to grant
licenses for shipment of liquors to the reopened ports, the
shipment.of which is previously approved by the general commanding
and supervising special agents as above.
With great respect,
S. P. CHASE, Secretary of the
Treasury.
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
