_Mr. Adams_. But your action was very rapid. The new administration had
been but sixty days in office. All departments were demoralized. The
British government then takes the initiative, and decides practically it
is a struggle of two sides, just as the country commenced to develop its
power to cope with the rebellion. It considered the South a marine power
before it had exhibited a single privateer on the ocean. The Greeks at
the time of recognition had 'covered the sea with cruisers.'
_Lord Russell (smiling yet more blandly)_. I cite you the case of the
Fillmore government towards Kossuth and Hungary. Was not an agent sent
to the latter country with a view to recognition?
_Mr. Seward (aside)_. The proclamation, unmodified and unexplained,
leaves us no alternative but to regard the government of Great Britain
as questioning our free exercise of all the rights of self-defence
guaranteed to us by our Constitution, and the laws of nature and of
nations, to suppress insurrection. But now as to the propositions sent,
viz. (1.) Privateering abolished. (2.) Neutral flag covers enemy's goods
except contraband of war. (3.) Neutral goods safe under enemy's flag,
with same exception.
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