William H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, April 4, 1865

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams

Sir: I give you herewith a copy of a note from Mr. Burnley, which announces the discharge of the St. Albans felons from arrest upon our treaty requisition, and of orders for their re-arrest for violations of the Queen’s neutrality.

I append also a copy of my latest instructions upon the subject to the United States consul at Montreal.

And further, a copy of a notice which has this day issued from the Department of State.

You will please bring these proceedings to the notice of Earl Russell, and inform him of my apprehensions that the new judicial prosecution which has been instituted will fail, like so many others.

Such an event would be very untoward, and produce much exasperation. It is not easily seen why her Majesty’s government should continue to recognize as a belligerent a class of men, despicable in numbers. Although they recklessly trample the laws of Great Britain under their feet, while committing atrocious crimes against a friendly power, yet they can neither be surrendered to us for punishment, nor subjected to punishment by British tribunals.

It certainly would not be an easy task to satisfy the people of the United States that, in enduring such proceedings, this government exercises a just protection over the lives and property of our citizens, and a right sense of national honor.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,