Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 14.djvu/416

 410 Soutliern Historical Society Papers.

Letter from Hon. James P. Holcombe to Secretary Benjamin.

[Private.] Montreal, Canada East, June i8, it

Hoyi. JUDAH p. Benjamin, Richmond :

Mv Dear Sir, — I expect to finish my business in Canada in time to reach HaHfax early in August, whence, if no instructions meet me miposing other duties, I shall proceed directly to Ber muda, and from that point into the Confederacy. Whilst the condition of the country makes the probability of a speedy re- union with my family most welcome, I would cheerfully protract my stay abroad if I could thereby really advance any public interest. Disqualified for all military service by physical infir- mities, there is no wish so near my heart as to render aid in some other form to the cause of our country. It has been fre- quently suggested to me, by those whose opinions were entitled to respect, that my studies in international law might be turned to some good account in England. Almost every weekly steamer brings us tidings of some novel question of neutral duty or belligerent right which has just sprung up, involving interests of deep importance to the Confederacy. Some admirable articles have appeared in the hidex on points of public law, but its circulation is so limited that we cannot keep the public mind properly informed, without address- ing it through other organs. Cases are also frequently occurring like that of the Chesapeake and the Gerrity, in which some more active agency than the pen may be required. As I have no desire in the premises except to find a place in which any capacity I may possess for usefulness can be profitably employed, any view of the suggestion which may be taken by you will be entirely satisfactory to me. Whilst I think there are valuable results to be more promptly secured by labor in this section, sooner or later some action must be taken by foreign governments on this question, and it seems to me that, in this connection, the public opinion of England is a matter of great consequence to us.

Hoping that the enemy will be completely foiled in their new base of operations as in their old ones,

I am, very truly yours, &c.,

James P. Holcombe.