Unknown to R. M. T. Hunter, April 14, 1864

Hon. R. M. T. HUNTER, Lloyds Post-Office, Essex County, Va.:

My Deak Sir: I have your note of the 11th with its inclosures.* I have not been unmindful of the necessity for prompt action in the matter to which you refer, and have made attempts to engage for the service in Canada several gentlemen deemed competent, but they have declined for various reasons. The subject is too delicate to permit my entering into details until I have the pleasure of seeing you. I confine myself to saying that two persons specially qualified are now on their way here from the south, and I have reason to hope they will depart on the duty intrusted to them ina few days. One of them, the general agent, is well known to you. I think our friend, whose letter you inclosed, ought not to expect any further action in his favor at present. You are aware that the business in which he is now engaged was not suggested by me, but was devised by himself as offering a provision which he represented as perfectly satisfactory. I understood that he would rely on his success for remuneration, and was so confident of the result as to declare distinctly that if his expenses were paid he would ask nothing more. A considerable sum has been spent in affording him the opportunity, and he now seems not to have proceeded beyond Halifax before indicating a doubt of success. I cannot appoint a consul there, as he could not get an exequatur, or commercial agent, as none is required; and do not see that anything further can now be done for him, although quite disposed to render him any proper service, as well as anxious to oblige you.

Ta Ee * Not found., I had previously heard of our soldiers who had sought refuge in Canada, after escaping from captivity, and have made provisions to aid their return to the Confederate States. Will you not be here before the meeting of Congress?

As ever, very truly, your friend,