William H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, August 12, 1865

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams

Sir: The Secretary of the Navy has communicated to this department a despatch of the 24th ultimo, addressed to him by Rear-Admiral Goldsborough, from Flushing, which is accompanied by a copy of a letter addressed to him by you, which appears to be in answer to one from the admiral, in which he asked whether the British government still adhered to the application of the twenty-four-hour rule to the departure of our Vessels being found with them at the time of their arrival. Admiral Goldsborough asks whether, under the circumstances set forth in your letter, he is still to avoid the ports of England, and still decline to exchange courtesies and ceremonies with her naval and other authorities. To this inquiry this department has, under the instructions of the President, requested Mr. Welles to reply in the affirmative.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,