Mr. Seward to Mr. Burnley
SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 20th instant, inviting my attention to the inconvenience occasioned to British subjects domiciled at Charleston, South Carolina, by the conduct of Colonel Woodford, in requiring all persons who wish to remain in that city to comply with certain regulations, and to inform you that, as Charleston has been reclaimed by the military forces of the government, it is desirable to hold it by a force as small as possible, so as not to weaken the armies in the field. The government does not think it unreasonable to insist that neutrals as well as enemies should retire from it, and leave there only those who, if required, will fight to defend their homes.
I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your obedient servant,
J. Hume Burnley, Esq., &c., &c., &c.