Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.
My Lord: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of yesterday in regard to the course of the military authorities at Memphis towards foreigners. In reply I have the honor to state that a copy of your lordship’s note will be communicated to the Secretary of War. I am, however, under the impression that the rule concerning beleaguered places like Memphis is, that foreigners shall either take up arms for their defence or depart. therefrom. How far it may be expedient to observe this rule may be inferred from the enclosed printed copy of General Orders, No. 3, of the 10th instant, issued by Major General 0. 0. Washburn, commanding the military district in which Memphis is situated, which also contain the regulations affecting trade, and the reasons for their adoption.
I have the honor to be, with high consideration, my lord, your obedient servant,
Right Hon. Lord Lyons, &c., &c., &c.