Right Honorable Earl Russell to Charles Francis Adams, January 1, 1863

[Enclosures.]

1. Earl Russell to Mr. Adams, January 1, 1863.

2. Telegram, Mr. Adams to Mr. Sprague, January 3, 1863.

3. Telegram, Mr. Sprague’s reply, January 5, 1863.

Earl Russell to Mr. Adams.

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 30th ultimo, calling my attention to the circumstances attending the sale of the steamer Sumter at Gibraltar. I have the honor to state to you, in reply, that the law officers of the crown have already the case before them.

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,

Mr. Adams to Mr. Sprague.

Klingendan’s name throws much suspicion on the sale. You must refuse to recognize it. And if the Sumter try to slip off under a British flag, Captain Bryson must stop and take her on the high seas if he can. He need not mind the twenty-four hour rule, if outside the jurisdiction.

Mr. Sprague’s reply to Mr. Adams.

Telegraph Saturday received. Have notified governor sale Sumter will not be recognized. Sumter quiet in port past week. Has ceased flying any flag.