John A. Dix to William H. Seward, January 1, 1867

Mr. Dix to Mr. Seward

Sir: I received, on Sunday evening, your despatch of the 28th ultimo, by the Atlantic telegraph, directing me to announce proclamation exempting French vessels. On Monday (yesterday) morning I called on the Marquis de Moustier, the minister of foreign affairs, and communicated the despatch to him. He understood that it related to a matter which had been brought before the government by the minister of France at Washington, and asked permission to take a copy of the despatch. He seemed gratified that the question had been arranged, and you will see that it is noticed in the Moniteur of this morning, a copy of which I enclose.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

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A telegram from New York informs us that a recent proclamation of President Johnson accords a national character to French ships in the United States. Consequently, m conformity with the terms of the decree published in the Moniteur last Friday, the American flag will hereafter be clothed with every right of navigation in our ports.