Charles Francis Adams to Eight Hon. Earl Russell, December 29, 1863

Mr. Adams to Earl Russell.

My Lord: I am directed by my government to represent to you that information entitled to credit has been received by it to the effect that an officer in her Majesty’s naval service, either relieved or active, by the name of Ralph Cator, is engaged in violating the blockade of the insurgent ports of the United States, under the assumed name of Peterson. I am further instructed to express the belief that other British naval officers are thus engaged.

In view of this information, corroborated by the late proceedings at Sheerness, I am reluctantly compelled to believe that there is a strong disposition on the part of a portion of her Majesty’s navy to violate the neutrality of their sovereign in aiding and assisting the enemies of the United States in the resistance they are making to the lawful government. I am requested to solicit your lordship’s attention to the expediency of making inquiry in regard to the alleged proceedings of the person above named, not doubting that should he prove to be guilty, her Majesty’s government will visit the offence he has committed with its displeasure.

I beg to renew the assurances of the highest consideration with which I have the honor to be, my lord, your most obedient servant,