Cassius M. Clay to William H. Seward, November 17, 1863

Mr. Clay to Mr. Seward

Sir: Your despatch No. 41 is received; also the copy of Consul Phelps’s letter. In obedience to your instructions I have called the attention of the minister of foreign affairs to the subject, and asked his good offices in suppressing all such enterprises, if there are any. * * * The assisting, directly or indirectly, the English to fit out war vessels to be employed by the “Confederate States” against the United States, would be a violation of neutrality, for the very act carries proof of the unfriendly intention, and would make all aiders and abettors guilty of an illegal act, no matter when or by whom it might be consummated. But Mr. Phelps don’t pretend to give any proof of such acts, or even the names of such persons; and of course the imperial government can have no base of action. In truth, I don’t believe that any such attempts as fitting out war vessels are being made here; and if they are, England, where the vessels are said to be building, is the place to detect them. Of course no one would voluntarily avow such criminal designs, if they were entertained.

I am, truly, your obedient servant,