William H. Seward to J. Hume Burnley, Esq., & c, October 21, 1864

Mr. Seward to Mr. Burnley.

Sir: I have received communications from the United States consul at Montreal, which inform me that his excellency Governor Monck and other Canadian authorities are proceeding, with zeal and vigor, to arrest the parties who were engaged: in the depredations committed at St. Albans, in Vermont. It is not to be doubted that the object of these depredations is the same with that of the piratical operations which recently occurred on Lake Erie, namely, to embroil the governments of the United States and Great Britain in a border war. Under these circumstances, I think it proper to let you know that the President regards with sincere satisfaction the conduct and proceedings of the Canadian authorities before referred to.

Thus far I have received no official or other certain account of the proceedings of the United States civil or military agents; but I am glad to learn by manifold reports that the officers and agents of the two governments are acting together in good faith, and with due respect on each side for the lawful rightsand authority of the other. This is in entire conformity with the wishes of the United States.

I have the honor to be, with high consideration, sir, your obedient servant,