Inclosed is Capt. Douglas letter to the Brittish Consul in consequence of my requesting the Brittish Consul to apply for the release of the seamen whose letters I have forwarded; it needs no comment. Before any notice can be received from the Genl. Government & admiral the ⟨s⟩hips are off. Without yr. instructions it is useless for me ⟨to⟩ make application for their relief, which I have ⟨   ⟩ done through the Consul in a respectful manner by ⟨r⟩equest. I have the honor to be Yr. obt Servt