Rebellion Record: a Diary of American Events: Poetry and Incidents., Volume 1.
Frank Moore, Ed.

A representative of one of the five Great Powers met Mr. Seward on Monday, just as he was coming out of his room on his way to dinner. Of course, the diplomat was invited to walk in. He declined, saying, “Oh, no; I only called to tell you a good joke. One of our captains has just arrived, and says that when he reached Charleston and went to my Consul's office, and inquired for the Consul, he was told that he was drilling his company. ‘ What company?’ inquired the captain of the ship. ‘Why, one of the companies selected to march against Washington.’ The captain was greatly surprised, and mentioned the fact as evidence of the universal feeling of hostility which pervades Charleston.”

Mr. Seward--“What is the name of your Consul at Charleston?”

Diplomat--“------------.”

Mr. Seward (opening the door opposite where they were standing)--“Mr. Assistant Secretary, draw up an order recalling the exequatur issued in favor of-------.----., Consul at Charleston. There, that business is disposed of.”

Diplomat--“My God! Seward, you are not in earnest. I only told you the story as a good joke.”

Mr. Seward--“And I, Mr.---, avail myself of this ‘joke ’ to give you practical evidence of the manner in which we intend to deal with every Foreign Power and their representatives, whenever they interfere, directly or indirectly, between us and the traitors in rebellion against our Government. The exequatur of your Consul is recalled, and the place vacant; and I sincerely hope that no imprudence on the other side of the Atlantic will compel me as summarily to terminate the very pleasant relations now existing with all the members of the Diplomatic Corps. Your Government understands us, and is always friendly; but it may become our duty to prove to others that we are in earnest not to permit interference in this domestic quarrel.” --N. Y. Express, May 25.