Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale.
Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your dispatch of the 28th of July, No. 142, together with an accompaniment, namely, a note which was addressed to you on the 27th of July last by the Marquis of Roncali, secretary of state for foreign affairs, concerning the regulations which are now in force in the island of Cuba in respect to the entrance of seamen of the colored race into that province. These regulations bear inconveniently upon the commerce of the United States, and tend to excite injurious prejudices against Spain in this country, where happily all men are free. It is hoped the enlightened government of Spain will without unnecessary delay revise a policy which seems to be productive of no considerable benefit, while it cannot be otherwise than a fruitful ground of complaint on the part of friendly nations.
You may give a copy of the substance of this dispatch to the marquis, if it shall seem expedient.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
John P. Hale Esq., &c., &c., &c.