William L. Dayton to Winslow , United States Steamship Kearsarge, October 21, 1863

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Sir: The French minister of foreign affairs, Mr. Drouyn de l’Huys, informs me that it is reported to him that you keep steam constantly on your vessel in the port of Brest with the view, as supposed, to instantly follow the Florida out of the roadstead, if she leaves before you, and seize her if possible. He informs me, furthermore, that, the French government having resolved to treat the Florida as a regular ship-of-war, this proceeding on your part cannot be permitted; that the rule which, under such circumstances, gives twenty-four hours start to the vessel first leaving port will be applied. He has requested me, with a view to avoid an unpleasant difficulty, to apprise you of this determination of the French government, and to request you to comply with the above rule. As nothing is to be gained by compelling this government to exercise force in applying this rule, you will, I trust, submit as a matter of necessity to the requirements.

I am further informed that this government does not consider itself bound to prohibit an accession to the crew of the Florida while lying in the port of Brest, provided such accession does not increase the number beyond that which they brought into port.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,