William H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, November 4, 1862

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

Sir: Your despatch of October 16 (No. 242) has been received. The President regrets that he is unable to find in the proceedings of her Majesty’s government satisfactory evidence that it proposes to render redress to the United States for the injuries sustained by their citizens in the arming, fitting out, and dispatch of the 290 on her errand of commercial devastation, or to prevent injurious enterprises of the same character from being carried into execution. Nevertheless, still trusting that the government of Great Britain may come, after careful consideration, to think the subject worthy of a review, the evidence in the case of the 290, as it shall be received, will be transmitted to you to be laid before Earl Russell. You will, in the meantime, communicate the effect of this despatch to his lordship.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,