Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, April 11, 1862

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

SIR: ** * * * * * * *

I transmit herewith the copy of a note of Lord Russell, dated the 8th of April, enclosing a second report on the outfit of the Oreto. In spite of the admission that troops and guns are on board, her Majesty’s officers still insist upon being blind to the destination of the vessel, and the government tolerates the abuse.

Since the date of my last I have taken advantage of the absence of any important business here to avail myself of the permission granted me a short time since to visit Paris for the purpose of conferring with Mr. Dayton. I have derived great benefit from the communications made to me, and they will lead to a corresponding change of policy on my part. I can only say now that I shall, as soon as possible, request a conference with Lord Russell in order to re-enforce the arguments that have been presented from the other side of the channel. The effort will be to concentrate the responsibility for any further protraction of the struggle as much as possible on the government here. I shall defer all further discussion of the subject until I can report the result of the conference.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,