Robert C. Wood to Mr. Blumhe, March 13, 1865

Mr. Wood to Mr. Blumhe

Sir: I have this day received a despatch from the Secretary of State of the United States, in which, speaking on the condition that the facts reported are true, I am instructed to inform the Danish government, “That the government of the United States cannot be expected to submit uncomplainingly to the apprehended invasion of piratical vessels, coming from European ports, and that it is expected that Denmark will do whatever is necessary to prevent this, if the responsibility shall be traced to the government or to the subjects of his Majesty, the King of Denmark.” I am also instructed to ask an explanation of his Majesty’s government, and in doing so to inquire how it happened that, if his Majesty’s government intended to divest itself of responsibility, it caused or suffered the Staerkodder to go into Houat, an unarmed place, not within the surveillance of the French government, instead of Bordeaux. I am also instructed to say, “That the government of the United States deems the time to have come when the maritime powers of Europe ought to withhold all protection and shelter from enemies of the United States who proceed from countries with which they are at peace.”

With renewed assurances of high consideration, I remain your excellency’s obedient servant,