Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton

No. 399.]

Sir: Your despatch of the 3d of September, No. 341, has been received.

Reserving, for the present, remarks upon the political aspect of the reception of the Florida at Brest, I have submitted the despatch to the Secretary of the Navy, and asked his consideration of your suggestion, in regard to sending a force to intercept the Florida on her leaving that harbor.

I will make the Secretary’s decision known to you as soon as it shall have been received from him.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Wm. L. Dayton, Esq., &c., &c., &c.