Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, September 26, 1862

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have not been quite satisfied with the way in which my remonstrances respecting the outfit of the gunboat No 290 had been left. In consequence I seized the first opportunity in my power to remind Lord Russell that no written answer had been given to me. This has had the desired effect. I have the honor to transmit copies of the two notes which have passed between us. In former days it was a favorite object of Great Britain to obtain from the United States an admission of the validity of claims for damage done by vessels fitted out in their ports against her commerce. This was finally conceded to her in the seventh article of the treaty of 1794. The reasoning which led to that agreement may not be without its value at some future time, should the escape of the gunboat 290 and of her companion, the Oreto, prove to be of any serious injury to our commerce.

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