Richard Lyons, 1st Viscount Lyons to John Russell, 1st Earl Russell, December 21, 1863

Lord Lyons to Earl Russell.—(Received January 5, 1864.)

With reference to my despatch of the 15th instant, I have the honor to transmit to your lordship copies of further correspondence relative to the American steamer Chesapeake, which was taken possession of at sea by some of the passengers, who overpowered the master and crew.

Your lordship will find among the correspondence a note from Mr. Seward to me, informing me, by direction of the President, that this government has not authorized, and does not propose to justify, any exercise whatever of authority by its agents within the waters or on the soil of Nova Scotia; and that, if any such authority has been assumed, this government will at once express its profound regret, and stands ready, in that case, to make amends which shall be entirely satisfactory.

I have deemed it right to be content with this assurance until I shall receive fuller information of what has occurred in Nova Scotia, and shall be made acquainted with the views and wishes of the administrator of the government of the province.

An account of my communications with Mr. Seward on the subject is contained in the letter to Major General Doyle, which forms the last enclosure in this despatch.

[Enclosure 1 in No. 3, Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons, printed elsewhere.]

[Enclosure 3 in No. 3, Lord Lyons to Mr. Seward, printed elsewhere.]

[Enclosure 4 in No. 3, Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons, printed elsewhere.]

[Enclosure 6 in No. 3, Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons, printed elsewhere.]

[Enclosure 7 in No. 3, Lord Lyons to Mr. Seward, printed elsewhere.]