Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, May 25, 1866

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: In connection with your despatch No. 1740, of the 21st April, relative to the case of Colonel Burke, now held in prison in Ireland, I have the honor to report that in reply to the application on his behalf made by Mr. West to the authorities in Ireland, under my suggestion, an answer has been received from them regretting their inability to accede to the request for his release, and assigning, as the cause, the fact that they have reason to believe him to have been deeply implicated in the Fenian plots of hostility to the government. This makes, I think, only the second instance of refusal which has occurred. As the grounds upon which it is rested seem to be substantially the same with those taken by our government during the war, in similar cases, I shall await your instructions before taking any further step.

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