Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 2d of May, No. 460. You will please express to Mr. Drouyn de l’Huys a high satisfaction on the part of this government with the information he has given you, that the Rappahannock will not be allowed to enter the piratical service of the enemies of the United States.
I have carefully read the portions of your despatch which relate to the four war vessels which are being built at Nantes and Bordeaux, by Arman and Voruz, for the insurgent service. You have been already apprised that this government is disturbed by the rumors it hears from Arman and from his confederates of this country, that these vessels are at last to be allowed by the French government to go to sea. Indeed you were instructed in my No. 553 to ask full explanations, and to assure M. Drouyn de l’Huys that the subject is deemed by the President worthy serious attention on the part of the Emperor’s government. The conversation of M. Drouyn de l’Huys, which you have since reported to me was held before you could have received the instruction last mentioned. That conversation has not produced any abatement of the apprehensions before entertained; but it has on the other hand increased them.
I have, therefore, to renew the instructions. You will say to M. Drouyn de l’Huys, if you find it necessary, that this government could not look with indifference upon the building and despatching of hostile vessels from the ports of France.
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I am, sir, your obedient servant,
William L. Dayton Esq., &c., &c., &c.