Mr. Seward to Mr. Tassara
Sir: Referring to your note of the 14th instant, announcing that orders have been given by her Catholic Majesty’s government for the delivery of the insurgent ram Stonewall to the United States, I have the honor to transmit herewith [Page 575] a copy of a letter upon the subject, which has been addressed to this department by the Secretary of the Navy, to whom a transcript of your note was submitted by me.
It is hoped that it may be found convenient to comply with the request of the Secretary of the Navy for the retention of the ram at Havana until the ensuing autumn.
I am, sir, with high consideration, your obedient servant,
Señor Don Gabrïel Garcia y Tassara &c., &c., Washington.
Navy Department, Washington, July 20, 1865,
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 18th instant, enclosing a copy of a note addressed to you on the 14th instant by Mr. Tassara, the Spanish minister, announcing that orders have been, given by his government for the delivery of the insurgent ram Stonewall to the United States.
Owing to the prevalence of yellow fever at Havana, it would seem injudicious to remove the Stonewall at this time and bring her to a port of the United States. I have therefore to suggest that a request be made for the retention of the ram at Havana until fall, if it can be conveniently done, when she will be sent for and brought to a northern port. If her retention would not be convenient, the department is ready to despatch a vessel for her immediately.
Very respectfully, &c.,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.