William H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, January 11, 1864

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

Sir: I transmit copies of certain letters which were found on board the prize steamers R.E. Lee and Cornubia, and which conclusively show that the British vessels now engaged in attempted violations of the blockade are not neutral vessels, but are really rebel transports, fraudulently despatched and sailing under the British flag. You will have the goodness to place copies of these papers in the hands of Earl Russell. The originals are on file in the office of the clerk of the United States district court of Massachusetts.

You will submit to Earl Russell the inquiry, whether the developments thus brought to his knowledge do not require some modification of the policy hitherto maintained by her Majesty’s government in regard to the political controversy which this government is so diligently engaged in endeavoring to bring to an end, favorable to the interests of both countries and to the cause of humanity. At least her Majesty’s government cannot be surprised that, with the knowledge now possessed by this government, the policy hitherto pursued by the United States in regard to assaults of the blockade will be modified.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,