WEST, United States Consul to John H. Rogers, Mountjoy Prison, February 22, 1867

Mr. West to Mr. Rogers.

Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th instant, informing me that you were arrested under the “habeas corpus suspension act,” and that you are a native-born citizen of the United States.

I regret to say that I would not be justified in taking any measure for your release on the grounds of your citizenship without having evidence thereof in my possession; so that, in order to avail yourself of my services, it will be necessary that you obtain legal proofs of your birth in the United States.

In writing this, I of course assume that you have been in no way implicated in the Fenian movement.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,