Robertson to R. C. Wyllie, July 26, 1861

[Untitled]

Sir: I have the honor to receive your communications of the 1st, 10th, 13th, and 25th instant, and their enclosures. The justices of the supreme court have examined the proclamation issued by her Britannic Majesty the Queen, and also the proclamation issued by the President of the United States, issued in consequence of hostilities having arisen between the government of the United States and certain States styling themselves the Confederate States of America, together with the communication of the Secretary of State, Mr. Seward, and the commissioner of the United States at this court accompanying them.

Mr. Seward is apprehensive that efforts may be made to fit out privateers in our ports for the purpose of aggression on American commerce. To permit it would unquestionably be a breach of neutrality and in derogation of our duty; neither can our ports be used as a depot for the spoils or the prisoners of privateers.

We have also examined the proclamation issued in 1854 by his Majesty the King, proclaiming neutrality in the war then pending between the great maritime powers of Europe, and the resolutions of the privy council which accompanied it, and we are of opinion that similar declarations at this time will be in accordance with our rights and duties as neutrals.

I beg to return to you the enclosures which accompanied your communications.

I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servants,