Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have given some reflection to the subject of your despatch No. 1484, of the 25th of July, relating to the depredations of the Sea King in the sea of Okhotsk. These must have been committed at a period before the orders alleged to have been sent out from the rebels claiming authority here to stop all further operations were received. The name of the commander is stated to be Waddell. If there is a probability that memorials respecting the losses will be prepared and sent forward, I am strongly of opinion that it would be better to wait for them as a basis of a formal claim of indemnification, rather than to make one now, without evidence or knowledge of fact other than what comes from a vague statement communicated by telegraph from San Francisco. Entertaining this opinion, I shall venture to postpone action until further advices.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.