William H. Seward to Charle F. Adams, July 29, 1864

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

Sir: I transmit a copy of a letter of the 26th instant, addressed to this depart-men by the Secretary of the Navy, and of the despatch of Mr. Allen, United States consul at Bermuda, to which it refers, relative to the insurgent steamer Florida making the Bermuda islands a base for depredations on our commerce, and tc alleged partiality shown to rebel cruisers in British colonial ports. The facts seem to warrant the remonstrance which Mr. Welsh suggests should be addressd to Earl Russell, which course you will adopt, but in a form that, while it leaves no doubt of our sense of injury, will, nevertheless, give no just cause of offence to the British government.

I’m, sir, your obedient servant,