Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams
Sir: The notice which has been given by this government for the termination of the convention of April, 1817, limiting the naval force on] the lakes, was indispensable, to enable us technically with honor to protect ourselves from insurgent incursion from Canadian territory. As it is hoped and believed that, under existing circumstances, no further incursions of that character may be apprehended, you may say to Lord Russell that we are quite willing that the convention should remain practically in force; that this government has not constructed or commenced building any additional war vessels on the lakes, or added to the armament of the single one which was previously its property; and that no such vessels will in future be built or armed by us in that quarter. It is hoped and expected, however, that her Majesty’s government, on its part, so long as this determination shall be observed in good faith, by that of the United States, will neither construct, nor arm nor introduce armed vessels in excess of the force stipulated for by the convention referred to.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq.,
Minister of the United States, London.