Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton
Sir: I have received your despatch of May 16, No. 465, in which you communicated to me the remarks of M. Drouyn de l’Huys on the subject of the prohibition of the exportation of anthracite coals for the use of the French navy in the Gulf. At the time when M. Drouyn de l’Huys made these complaints he was probably unaware that the proceedings upon which the complaints were founded had been modified to the mutual satisfaction of the French chargé d’affaires here and this government. The occasion for the remarks having thus passed, the question which arose out of it has now become purely speculative. From this view it does not seem important to discuss them new. I shall remain content with saying that the remarks of M. Drouyn de l’Huys seem to me to have been made under a misapprehension of the facts in the case, and of the principles and policy of this government.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
William L. Dayton Esq., &c., &c., &c.