[Extract.]

Mr. Harvey to Mr. Seward.

No. 268.]

Sir: * * * * *

I transmit also a circumstantial account of the presence and departure of the rebel cruiser Florida at Madeira, and the attending circumstances which Mr Bayman was instructed to prepare, in order that it might be laid before the President. It throws no additional light upon the case, as it has already been submitted to the notice of the department, except the fact that the commander of the Florida was consistent in his vocation when he resorted to deception in order to attain his object. And although he succeeded in a very fractional degree, this experience will not much avail him or his criminal confederates hereafter.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,

JAMES E. HARVEY.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.