William H. Seward to William L. Dayton, May 23, 1864

Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton

Sir: I enclose a copy of a despatch of the 27th ultimo, and of its accompaniments, addressed to this department by Mr. Chase, consul general of the United States at Tampico, from which it appears that that officer has been treated very rudely by the French military commandant there, and even threatened with imprisonment. You will make a proper representation upon the subject to the minister for foreign affairs of France, and will state to him that due reparation will be expected by this government. As the correspondence speaks for itself, no inquiry as to the facts of the case would seem to be necessary.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,