Mr. Seward to Sri F. Bruce
Sir: Referring to your communication of the 5th of January last, and to the reply of the 17th of that month from this department, in regard to the alleged improper conduct of a sentry from the United States gunboat, James Adger, I have the honor to inform you that in a letter of the 5th instant, from the Secretary of the Navy, it is stated that a naval court of inquiry has been organized and ordered to proceed to Aspinwall, (or Colon,) to convene on board the James Adger, February 17,1866, or as soon thereafter as practicable, for the thorough investigation of the case in question. The court will take the testimony of any witnesses which her Majesty’s government may desire to have brought before it, and any agent whom they may authorize will be received by the court to take part in the examination.
I have the honor to be, with consideration, sir, your obedient servant,
The Hon. Sri FREDERICK W. A. BRUCE, &c., &c., &c.