Mr. Harvey to Commander Preble.
Sir: It has been stated to me that a letter was addressed by yourself and Mr. R. Bayman, United States vice-consul at Madeira, to the governor of that island, complimentary of his conduct towards the rebel cruiser Florida when the commander of that vessel applied for coal and provisions, on or about the 29th of February last. If this statement be correct, it is desirable that a copy of the letter should be furnished to this legation, to enlighten my official action in reference to a question which I consider raised by the proceedings of the governor.
[Page 312]It is also proper for me to request that an inquiry should be made among the officers and others on board the St. Louis, who may be cognizant of any material facts, with a view to ascertain, as nearly as practicable, the actual quantity of coal which was supplied to the Florida. It has been stated that several barges freighted with 10 tons or more of coal each, were seen from the deck of the St. Louis unloading on both sides of the Florida at the same time, two of them being distinctly visible on the exposed side, and the presumption being that the same number were discharging at the other side, as the fact was notorious that four barges were loaded lying in the bay for that purpose.
In a letter to Mr. Munro, of the 1st of March, which he communicated to me for information, you state “the governor allowed her (the Florida) to take in 20 tons of coal, and no more.” In a subsequent letter from Teneriffe a very positive doubt was expressed concerning the quantity of coal really furnished, which must have been justified by subsequent developments.
Under all the circumstances of the case it is necessary to institute a thorough inquiry, in order that the public interests may be properly protected here.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Commander G. H. Preble, United States Steamer St. Louis, Lisbon.