Mr. Harvey to Mr. Seward
Sir: It was a great relief to my anxiety to receive the telegram which is given below, last evening, when nearly all hope of being able to make any effective opposition to the exit of the rebel ram at Ferrol had been abondoned:
“Corunna, February 11—2 o’clock p. m.
“Am here with the Niagara. Please send the Sacramento here immediately.
“CRAVEN.”
Necessity compelled the answer of which you are already informed, and which I repeat for a more perfect understanding:
“Lisbon, February 11—7½ o’clock p. m.
“Commodore Craven, United States Steamer Niagara, Corunna:
“Sacramento is disabled and cannot be repaired under ten days. Please keep me informed of your movements.
“JAMES E. HARVEY.”
I shall make it a point to go on board the Sacramento again to-day with the intention of hastening the repairs if that be at all practicable.
As yet I am not informed whether the Niagara has appeared at Corunna in response to the urgent requests contained in my telegrams to Mr. Sanford and Mr. Adams or not, though it appears quite probable from the dates of the two facts. In any event, the presence of that ship at such a time is a cause of much gratification.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.