William L. Dayton to John A. Winslow , U. S. S. Sloop Kearsarge, Dover, April 30, 1864

Mr. Dayton to Captain Winslow

Sir: In an interview with M. Drouyn de l’Huys, French minister of foreign affairs, from which I have just returned, he informed me that the persons who had been engaged in applying to the French government to get out the Rappahannock have now informed him that all farther attempts for that purpose have been abandoned, and that the vessel will be left to rot where she is. I have no fear, therefore, of the early discharge of this vessel.

The four cupper ships which are being constructed by Mr. Arman, at Bordeaux and Nantes, for the confederates, are in the course of rapid completion, particularly the Yeddo and Osacca, which lie at Bordeaux. The Yeddo is advertised to sail for China on the 30th of May, and the Osacca on the 30th of June, under pretence that they are intended for the French China line. They are both confederate vessels, and should be captured if possible.

The Georgia, I am informed, has sailed for Antwerp.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,