Harvey to William H. Seward, July 28, 1861

Mr. Harvey to Mr. Seward.

Sir: Since my despatch (No. 6) of the 25th instant, information reached me * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * that plans were concerted by the parties who had recently applied for the privilege of fitting out a privateer, and others, to accept letters of marque from the so-called Confederate States, and to use some of the remote islands of Portugal as places of rendezvous for outfit and for the disposal of any prizes that might be taken.

In view of the facilities offered for these nefarious enterprises in the Azores, Madeira, Cape de Verd, and other islands, as well as in the small Indian possessions of that kingdom, I felt it proper to address the note, of which a copy is enclosed, to the minister of foreign affairs, yesterday, as a means of inducing him to take immediate and decisive action on the subject. These facts will serve to explain the seemingly urgent tone of my note, which I thought demanded by the necessity of the case.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,