Sir Frederick W. A. Bruce to William H. Seward, November 3, 1865

Sir F. Bruce to Mr. Seward

Sir: The attention of her Majesty’s government has been called recently to the construction of several vessels prepared for the reception of a powerful armament, which are reported to be destined for service on the North American lakes

In view of the convention which exists between the United States and Great Britain determining the armed force to be employed by the parties to it on the lakes, I am instructed to bring the subject under your notice and to request you to be good enough to furnish me with the explanations which it seems to require.

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