Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward

No. 303.]

Sir: Referring to my despatch No. 302, I have the honor to transmit the enclosed note this day received from the minister of foreign affairs, in regard to the arrest and imprisonment of American citizens in France under pretext of military service.

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,

JOHN BIGELOW.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.

[Page 298]
[Translation.]

M. Drouyn de Lhuys to Mr. Bigelow

Sir: I had the honor to write to you on the 29th and 30th March, to let you know that I had called the attention of the minister of war to the reclamations of Messrs. Todry and François, who were the objects of your letters of the 27th and 29th of same month.

Marshal Randon has just informed me, and I hasten to let you know, that these two persons have been set at liberty. Moreover, orders have been given for suspension of the judicial action, to which they were subject on the score of the offence of refractoriness, until the civil courts before which MM. Todry and François will have to present themselves shall decide whether they have or have not lost the quality of Frenchmen, and since what time.

Accept, &c., &c.,

DROUYN DE LHUYS.

Mr. Bigelow, &c ., &c., &c .