Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward
Sir. * * * * * * * *
The Florida, you have doubtless seen, has been seized by private French claimants who have demands for damages against her. The claims in France are, I am told, more than equal to the value of the vessel. After consulting with our vice-consul at Brest, it was thought best for the government of the United States not to interfere or mix itself up in the question. The vessel has gone into dock, and will be there probably for a considerable time. They have landed some seventy-five of their crew and shipped them around to the English coast. They (the crew) were not, it is said, communicative, but those who did speak of their destination all agreed that they were bound for Liverpool to take charge of two confederate steamers awaiting them there.
These are doubtless the iron-clads from Laird’s yard which have been stopped by order of the government, as I am this morning informed by our consul at Liverpool.
I should add that Captain Maffitt has been required by the consignee of the Florida to make a deposit for the expenses to be incurred in repairs, and has deposited 40,000 francs; some evidence of the extent of repairs contemplated.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.