Mr. Wright to Mr. Seward, May 15, 1861

Mr. Wright to Mr.
Seward.

Sir:

* * * * * *

The proclamation of the President was received by the previous mail, and
the subject has received due consideration.

On receipt of your circular dated the 20th of April, I immediately called
upon Baron de Schleinitz, minister of foreign affairs, who had received
the proclamation of the President, and he at once promptly informed me
that, in his opinion, no apprehension need be entertained as to Prussian
subjects engaging under the authority of the so-called Confederate
States in fitting out privateers, or in any manner interfering with our
commerce. Prussia has but few ports. Hers is not a sea-faring people,
and the sympathies of the government and of the people are with the
United States. Whatever danger may be apprehended on this subject must
come from Bremen, Hamburg, and other ports situated in Oldenburg,
Hanover, &c. Due vigilance will be used to prevent any such unlawful
interference, and if any such be detected the proper authorities will be
promptly advised thereof, and every effort will be made to suppress it.
Not knowing whether your circular has been sent to the consuls, I have
forwarded copies to several already.

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I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,