William L. Dayton to Winslow, United States Ship Kearsarge, January 20, 1864

Mr. Dayton to Captain Winslow

Dear Sir: I have been advised from London that some seventy men have recently been sent from England to France, and, as it is believed, for Brest. I presume that you have already learned that the crew of this vessel has been filled up in whole or in part, but I think it best to advise you of the above fact. The journals are stating that the captain of the Florida has given you notice that early in next month he will fight you off the French coast. I do not attach much importance to these newspaper statements, but should anything of the kind be in contemplation, and you need additional men, do not permit anything heretofore written to you to interfere with your enlisting them if they can be had. The Georgia and Florida will probably join forces. The Rappahannock, now at Calais, will not be permitted to take arms or ammunition aboard before she sails. I have the express assurance of the government for that.

What is the force of your vessel as compared with the aggregate force of the Florida and Georgia? Have you received any such notice from the Florida as intimated; and if so, do you consider it a serious offer?

Respectfully, your obedient servant,