William H. Seward to William Stuart, July 12, 1862

Mr. Seward to Mr. Stuart.

Sir: In accordance with the suggestion in my note to you of the 23d ultimo, this department appointed a commission to proceed to Fredericksburg, in the State of Virginia, and inquire as well into the character and past conduct of Peter Goolrick, exercising the functions of a British vice-consul at that place, and into the facts and circumstances which he had made the subject of a representation to you, as into the ownership of the one thousand barrels of flour, claimed in said representation to be the property of a British subject, which, he said, were taken from his protection.

I have the honor to enclose a copy of the report made to this department in pursuance of said appointment.

Upon considering the said report the President is of opinion that the public safety and welfare require that Mr. Goolrick should not continue in the office of vice-consul of a friendly power for any district or portion of the United States. Acts which, in a subject of a foreign state, might be regarded as imprudences, or passed with indifference, cannot, when committed by a citizen of the United States, as Mr. Goolrick is, but have a certain pernicious influence among his fellow-citizens.

But, in order that no interest may by possibility suffer, and to avoid even the appearance of precipitation, Mr. Goolrick, if you desire, may, under your instructions, remain in his place until after you shall have consulted your government in the matter.

In regard to the one thousand barrels of flour mentioned in Mr. Goolrick’s representation to you, you are not understood to present a claim in his name, or in the name of any other person for reparation or compensation. If at any time hereafter any person entitled to your protection shall present a claim to the said flour, and claim remuneration therefor, impartial justice shall, on full investigation, be done to him.

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