Rufus King to William H. Seward, December 2, 1866

Mr. King to Mr. Seward.

Sir: Early this morning I received a despatch in French from our consul general at Alexandria, of which the following is a translation :

“American Minister, Rome :

“I have arrested the individual; he is in prison. Send papers if you have them.

“HALE, American Consul.”

As this despatch was dated “Alexandria, Nov. 27th, 11.48 a. m.,” and only reached Rome at 6.20 a. m. of December 2, it must have been sent by steamer to Malta or Naples, and thence by telegraph to Rome. There being at present no direct telegraphic communication between Rome and Alexandria, and as the speediest way of reaching Mr. Hale, I telegraphed Mr. Winthrop, at Malta, advising him of Surratt’s arrest, and requesting him to send word to Mr. Hale to keep Surratt in safe custody till he heard from me. I wrote, at the same time, to Mr. Hale, giving him the substance of the instructions I had thus far received, urging the importance of Surratt’s capture, and transmitting a photograph of the fugitive. I thought it well, also, to advise Mr. Adams, at London, and Mr. Morris, at Constantinople, of all the facts in the case, and wrote to them accordingly, by the same mail. I trust that in all these measures to secure the arrest and extradition of Surratt I have only anticipated the wishes and directions of the State Department.

Desirous of sending this despatch by to-day’s mail, I must reserve for a future communication some remarks upon the existing condition of things in Rome.

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