Mr. Harvey to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have received telegrams from various persons and from different quarters within the last week, all agreeing in the report that one or more armed rebel cruisers had appeared in the waters hereabouts, but without any such specific description as would lead to their identification.
If it were practicable for the Navy Department to detail two war steamers of proper speed and armament for special service in this vicinity, or to substitute them for the sailing ships now in Europe, I feel confident that, with efficient commanders and judicious direction, we should soon be able to terminate the career of those public enemies on the sea, which have heretofore proved so injurious to our material interests.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.