Mr. Adams to Mr.
Seward.
No. 635.]
Legation of the United States,
London,
April 1, 1864.
Sir: In connexion with my despatch No. 628, of
23d of March, I now transmit a copy of Lord Russell’s note of the 26th,
in reply to my representation about the Amphion.
This vessel was about to leave the docks yesterday, on what is called a
trial trip. She remains in all respects what she was when sold, a war
ship, and suitable for little else. To fit her for sea, however, will
yet take some time. The impression is general among the people in the
neighborhood, who watch
[Page 431]
her
movements, that she is preparing for the use of the rebels, but I have
not yet been able to secure any evidence of a character that will weigh
with this government.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
Lord Russell to Mr. Adams.
Foreign Office,
March 26, 1864.
Sir: With reference to my letter of the
18th instant, I have the honor to state to you that it appears, from
further inquiries which her Majesty’s government have instituted
with regard to the Amphion, that that vessel is being actively
fitted out for sea; but her Majesty’s government are advised that,
whatever may be the nature of the “fitting out” now going on, there
is nothing to show that it is in violation of the foreign enlistment
act, and that under these circumstances no case appears to be made
out for their interference with regard to this vessel.
I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your
most obedient, humble servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.
