William. H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, January 27, 1865

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams

Sir. Referring to 1117 despatch of the 3d ultimo, No. 1171, in regard to the piratical vessel Sea King or Shenandoah, and to subsequent correspondence on the subject, I now transmit a copy of a despatch of the 29th of November last, from James Monroe, esq., the consul of the United States at Rio de Janeiro, containing a statement in relation to the destruction of our United States merchant vessels, with their cargoes, namely, the bark Alma, the schooner Charter Oak, of Boston, the bark D. Godfrey, from the same port, and the brig Susan, of New York, and to the bonding of the ship Kate Prince. It appears from the information presented with Mr. Monroe’s despatch that, with the exception of the name of the commander, the representation contained in my No. 1171 is corroborated.

Under these circumstances I have to request you to inform her Majesty’s government that the United States will claim redress for the injuries and losses inflicted on their citizens by the depredations of the Sea King or Shenandoah.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,