Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton
Sir: Your despatch of April 15, No. 299, has been received.
Your proceeding in calling the attention of Mr. Drouyn de l’Huys to the intrusion of the privateer “Virginia” into French waters, and her clandestine act and armament there, preparatory to depredations on our commerce, is approved, and the President authorizes you to express the satisfaction which he has derived from the courteous attention with which your communication was received. He does not doubt that it is the Emperor’s fixed determination to maintain the friendly relations towards the United States which have hitherto been so honorably preserved to the common advantage of both nations.
I am sir, your obedient servant,
William L. Dayton, Esq., &c., &c., &c.