Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Accompanying this instruction is a copy of a communication of the 14th ultimo, addressed to me by Messrs. George B. Upton and George B. Upton, jr., sole owners of the American ship Nora. It is represented in their memorial that the Nora was burned by the piratical vessel known as the Alabama, while on a voyage from Liverpool to Calcutta, with a cargo which it was represented to them belonged to British subjects.
Referring to previous instructions in regard to depredations of the same class, I have now to add this to the number, and, so far as the rights and interests of American citizens are involved in it, to bespeak your good offices in bringing it before her Majesty’s government.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.