Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, February 21, 1862

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: In consequence of information furnished to me by the consul of the United States at Liverpool of certain suspicious movements at that port, I have felt it my duty to make a representation to Lord Russell of the facts attending the outfit of the steam gunboat Oreto, and to ask an investigation. Copies of the notes that have passed on this subject are herewith transmitted.

Presuming that you are in constant receipt of intelligence from the consuls in the various ports of the preparation of vessels with supplies of all sorts intended to run the blockade of the southern ports, I do not attempt to furnish the information which I obtain. The temptation of rising prices will, of course, stimulate these ventures just so long as there shall be any reasonable chance of escaping the vigilance of our cruisers.

There seems to be less and less disposition to press complaints about the blockade. The remarks attributed to M. Billault, in the senate of France, leave little further hope of co-operation against it from that quarter.

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