GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy to William H. Seward, October 10, 1864
Mr. Welles to Mr. Seward
Sir: I herewith return the draught of a despatch proposed to be sent to Mr. Dayton, which accompanied your letter of the 7th instant, concerning the two clipper ships at St. Nazaire believed to bet building for the insurgents.
The department is gratified to express its full concurrence in the precautionary measures indicated, and instructions will be given to our naval officers in European waters on the subject.
Very respectfully,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.
P. S.—I herewith enclose copy of instructions given to Commodore Craven, of the Niagara, and Captain Walker, of the Sacramento.
Mr. Welles to Commodore Craven
Sir: From information received from a reliable source it appears that there are two clipper ships building at St. Nazaire, France, well adapted for war purposes, and there is good reason to believe that they are designed for the insurgents. Should these vessels be permitted to leave port under such circumstances as to warrant the belief that they are to make war against the United States, you will not hesitate to seize them and send them into one of our ports for adjudication.
The department desires you to place yourself in communication with our minister at Paris, Mr. Dayton, respecting these vessels, and regard any suggestions of his concerning them.
Very respectfully, &c.,
Commodore T. T. Craven, Comd’g U. S. S. Niagara, care of Hon. Mr. Dayton, Paris.