Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Your despatch of November 6 (No. 532) has been received. It informs me of the proceedings which have recently taken place in the case of the Alexandra, before the court of exchequer.
It is an occasion of sincere satisfaction to find that the interpretation which was given to municipal and international laws on the former trial of the case is deemed to require judicial reconsideration. If that interpretation should be left to guide the courts in Great Britain and her American provinces, and should further come to be accepted as a guide to the courts of the United States, then, I think no one could reasonably expect that the conflicts which would unavoidably arise between the two nations could be settled by the ordinary peaceful pocesses of courts or cabinets. This government knows no interest and no motive that does not prompt to the preservation of peace and friendship with Great Britain.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
C. F. Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.