Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have made a careful examination of the instructions that have been given to me in your several despatches, numbered 1250, 1256, 1274,1278, 1293,1296, 1297, 1304, 1310, and 1313, all of them more or less enjoining it upon me to renew remonstrances against the course of the British government in continuing [Page 306] to recognize the rebels as a belligerent on the ocean, and claiming indemnity for the depredations of the vessels that have been fitted out from this kingdom under the shelter thus given. They likewise direct me to demand an early revocation of that measure. * * * * *
On mature reflection I have concluded the best policy to be to compress the execution of the whole of the instructions which I have received in the contents of a single note. This has been carefully prepared, and will probably be ready to be sent in to-day. As it is rather long, I am afraid that there will not be time enough to transmit to you a copy by this steamer.* *
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.