Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. Burnley

Department of State, Washington, January 9, 1865.

Sir: Referring to the correspondence which has taken place between us in regard to the detention of persons taken on board of the Night Hawk, I have the honor to inform you that, as the registry of the vessel proved her British ownership, I have recommended their release, notwithstanding the fact that she was engaged in supplying the insurgents with contraband of war. The certified copy of the register which accompanied your note of 6th instant is now returned.

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your obedient servant.

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

J. Hume Burnley, Esq., &c., &c., &c.