Mr. Dayton to Mr.
Seward.
No. 353.]
Paris,
October 1, 1863.
Sir: I have the honor to enclose herewith a
copy of a letter received from Captain Winslow, of the United States
steamship Kearsarge, at Brest.
I have just been informed that a crew for the Florida was about being
shipped at Liverpool, which fact I have telegraphed to Captain
Winslow.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington,
D. C.
[Page 785]
Captain Winslow to Mr. Dayton.
United States Steamship
Kearsarge, Brest,
France,
September 28, 1863.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the
receipt of your despatch of the 25th instant. The information
received of the appearance of the Southerner in the Mediterranean is
no doubt true, and her appearance solves the mystery connected with
the burning of the American ship Nash, off Gibraltar.
Should other steamers reach this port, which I am in hopes the
government have ordered, measures can be taken to intercept the
Southerner; but at present the Kearsarge is well employed in
watching the Florida. I wish I could add that the chances of
overhauling this vessel were more favorable, but the position of the
port, which is lined seaward for many miles with rocks, forming near
the entrance three channels, renders it essential that a vessel
should be stationed in each one.
Referring to filling the complement of the Florida crew, my views are
that no attempt will be made (or if made, will be unsuccessful) to
enlist men in France. The probability is that her complement will be
made up and the men sent out from England; and it was suggested that
initiatory steps should be taken in advance to prevent the adoption
of this procedure.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO. A. WINSLOW, Captain.
Hon. William L. Dayton, &c., &c.
