Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, January 22, 1863

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: In consequence of representations made to Mr. Morse and to myself, in which we had confidence, I decided upon addressing to Lord Russell a note of remonstrance against the departure of the steamer Georgiana from Liverpool. A copy of that note and of the consul’s letter on which it was founded is herewith transmitted. At the same time, being conscious of the inability to make use of the evidence actually in possession, I sent to Mr. Dudley, the consul at Liverpool, a request to make an effort to re-enforce it with testimony at that place. He did so, but failed in obtaining any which could corroborate the affirmations beyond the single fact of the cutting of four port-holes. In the mean time Lord Russell notified me that he had ordered an investigation, which did not make out to reach even that point. Copies of all the papers emanating from him are appended. The Georgiana has since sailed. But I remain of opinion that the representation of her character is well founded, and that she is to be fitted out as an armed cruiser at Nassau, or, perhaps, Charleston. Her commander has already escaped once from the supervision of Captain Craven by destroying his confederate commission. It is to be hoped that other officers may be so apprised of the facts as not to let him slip if overhauled a second time.

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