Mr. Seward to Mr. de Geofroy
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 24th instant, respecting the inconvenience arising to French subjects domiciled in Charleston, by the order of Colonel Woodford, requiring persons wishing to remain within that city to take the oath of allegiance to the United States, and to inform you that this government has had this subject under consideration upon the representations of the ministers of Great Britain and other countries. The order was made by Major General Sherman, commanding, and is deemed at present necessary as a military measure. It is applied to all foreigners of whatever nationality, and is limited in time by the necessities of the military situation.
Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my high consideration.
Mr. L. de Geofroy, &c., &c., &c.