William H. Seward to Rufus King, December 4, 1866

Mr. Seward to Mr. King.

Sir: We have telegraphic information from Mr. Hale, United States consul general at Alexandria, of the arrest of John H. Surratt there. In consequence of this, Admiral Goldsborough has been ordered to send a war vessel thither for the purpose of bringing the prisoner here for trial. It is desirable and important that St. Marie, to whom you have referred in your despatches, should also be sent hither as a witness. You will consequently apply for his discharge from the military service of the Pope, and, if the application should be granted, you will forward him hither. The credit for $—— touching the Surratt case, with which you have already been provided, will, it is presumed, be enough to defray the expenses incident to the execution of the, instructions, including the travelling expenses of St. Marie.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,