DAVISSON, United States Consul to John Bigelow, January 12, 1865

Mr. Davisson to Mr. Bigelow

Sir: I learn from the United States consul at Elsineur that the Arman iron-clad Sphinx, (now Stoerkodder, ) which went to Copenhagen, was refused by the Danish government, and she is now en route for Bordeaux, in charge of a Danish captain and crew, and by permission of the Danish foreign office she is sailing under the Danish flag until her arrival in a French port. As she cleared from France as a vessel sold, her papers were taken from her on her arrival at Copenhagen, and her French captain left her. Hence this safe course pursued by Denmark of returning her to Bordeaux to get her natural documents and flag returned.

The twin brother of this iron-clad, the Cheops, is still at the quay/in this city, and although workmen have been as busy as Frenchmen can be, it will probably require a month more for the completion.

* * * * * * * *

Respectfully, your obedient servant,