W. H. Seward to James E. Harvey, July 30, 1861

Mr. Seward to Mr. Harvey.

Sir: Your despatches No. 1, of June 30, and No. 2, of July 7, have been received, and are under the consideration of the President.

Mr. Morgan’s despatch No. 70, of the date of July 5, has been received. I am instructed by the President to say that Mr. Morgan’s proceeding in addressing the Portuguese government on the subject of allowing the fitting out or harboring of privateers to prey upon the commerce of the, United States is approved, as well as the general tenor of his communication on that occasion.

The President cannot for a moment allow the belief that Portugal would be the only or even the first power to permit proceedings so injurious to the United States as a license or shelter granted to pirates engaged in preying on their commerce would be. Nevertheless, we shall look not without some solicitude for the result of the matter thus initiated by Mr. Morgan.

Please assure him, if he is yet remaining in Lisbon, of the entire satisfaction with which his conduct in the mission, so far as it has been reported to me, is regarded by the government.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,