Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, March 19, 1863

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have the honor to transmit copies of two notes which I had addressed to Lord Russell, in reply to two of his, dated on the 9th, copies of which were sent to you last week.

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I shall proceed hereafter only upon the instructions which shall be forwarded to me from your department.

The position which his lordship has taken in regard to the invitation of a loan for the rebels appears to be directly in contravention of the law heretofore laid down in the British courts. Encouraged by the tone of the press, this loan has been announced in the markets of France and this country. Of its success there appears to be much doubt. But if successful, so far as I see, it liberates the government of the United States from all further obligations to facilitate the exportation of cotton. And if the statement be true that the rebel authorities have prohibited the transfer of cotton to any parties but themselves, it appears to justify the seizure and condemnation of it wherever it may be found. For virtually this makes all the cotton remaining under the rebel control security for money furnished to them in order to carry on the war.

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