Rufus King to William H. Seward, November 10, 1866

Mr. King to Mr. Seward.

Sir: In my despatch No. 65, under date of November 2, I mentioned the result of the interview I had had with the cardinal secretary of state on the subject referred to in your “confidential” communication of October 16. I had occasion yesterday to call again upon his Eminence, with the view to ascertain, if possible, the truth of the widely prevalent rumor, that the Pope intended leaving Rome and seeking a refuge in the island of Malta. Before, however, I had the opportunity of making this inquiry, the cardinal apprised me that John Watson, alias John H. Surratt, had been arrested by his orders, and while on the way to Rome had made his escape from the guard of six men in whose charge he had been placed. At the same time his Eminence handed me the official documents, copies of which I herewith transmit, relating to the arrest, the escape, and the subsequent pursuit. As Veroli is close to the frontier, it is not at all unlikely that Surratt will make good his escape from his zouave pursuers into the Italian kingdom. I thought it well therefore, to send a confidential person at once to Florence to lay the whole case before the American minister, and solicit his aid and that of the Italian government in the recapture; for I did not feel at all sure that either a message by telegraph or a letter by mail to Mr. Marsh would, under the circumstances, escape the surveillance or possible interruption of the Papal authorities. I hope to have a report from my messenger within two or three days, and as Surratt was in his zouave dress when he effected his escape, I think the chance a fair one that he will be retaken. I trust that the course which I have pursued in the premises will meet the approbation of the department. I feel bound to add that, incredible as the details of the story appears, the cardinal spoke of them as verified beyond all question, and expressed very great and apparently sincere regret at Surratt’s escape.

* * * * * *

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