William H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, May 15, 1867

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

Sir: The President requires that in the cases of United States citizens tried or convicted for insurrection or treason in Ireland you protest against any irregular or doubtful conviction, and in all other cases recommend to the clemency of her Majesty’s government.

The sanguinary sentences of the court in the cases of Burke, Doran and McCafferty shock the public sense throughout the United States. Executions conforming to them would leave a painful impression in a country where traditional sympathy with the revolution in Ireland is increased by convictions of national injustice, and therefore is now not only profound but almost universal. Of course this instruction will not be executed if amnesty or clemency render it unnecessary.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,