William H. Seward to William L. Dayton, January 26, 1864

Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton

Sir: I enclose a copy of a despatch of the 31st ultimo, from Mr. M. D. L. Lane, the United States consul at Vera Cruz, and of the protest of José Wallace Smith referred to therein, containing a narrative of the treatment of which he alleges himself and others to have been the victims at the hands of the French authorities at Minatitlan. The case, as set forth, seems one of such excessive cruelty, that, without waiting further details, I have to request you to ask for an examination into the facts, and, if they are truly stated, to claim indemnity.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,