Mr. Harvey to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I communicate herewith a copy of a telegram which reached me early this morning:
Rome,November 16, 1866—11.50 a. m.
His Excellency Mr. Harvey, American Minister, Lisbon :
Inform Admiral Goldsborough that very important matters render the immediate presence of one of our skips of war necessary at Civita Vecchia.
RUFUS KING.
G. V. FOX.
As Rear-Admiral Goldsborough is not now in port, I sent immediately for Commodore Steedman, who arrived here some days ago, and who is now the superior officer present, in order to consult with him as to the proper measures to be adopted.
The United States steamer Swatara left here yesterday for Tangier, Gibraltar, and other ports in the Mediterranean, and if the rear-admiral, who is believed to have quit Cherbourg for Lisbon within the last few days, does not appear as [Page 107] soon as is now anticipated, Commodore Steedman will intercept and order the Swatara by telegraph to proceed to Civita Vecchia.
In the mean time I have addressed the following telegrams to the rear-admiral and to our minister at Rome :
Lisbon, November 17, 1866.
Rear-Admiral Goldsborough, U. S. S. Colorado, Cherbourg:
Our minister at Rome and Mr. Fox have telegraphed me to request you to send a ship immediately to Civita Vecchia. Quarantine has been removed from all French ports.
J. E. H.
Lisbon, November 17, 1866.
General Rufus King, American Minister, Rome :
Rear-Admiral Goldsborough is expected here daily. If he is delayed, I have arranged to send you ship Swatara.
J. E. H.
These are the only precautions that could be taken under the circumstances, and they are believed to be sufficient for the emergency.
I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.