Wilks

I am not going to quarrel with Captain Wilks for placing himself in the position which has elevated him, through the absurdity of his countrymen to the somewhat ludicrous pedestal on which he finds himself.

The Mason and Slidell Case, and Its Effect on the Americans 1862

Wednesday evening a telegram from Lord Lyons was brought by the City of Washington mail-steamer announcing that the act of Captain Wilks was annulled by the surrender of Messrs. Mason and Slidell and their two secretaries.

London, Saturday, January 11, 1862 1862

He said it was doubtful if the course of Captain Wilks could be justified by international law; and that, at all events, he could not afford to have two wars on his hands at the same time.

Foreign and Colonial News 1862

Mr. Seward's despatch, declaring that Captain Wilks, in seizing the two Southern Commissioners and their secretaries, had acted without the authority of the Washington Government, which stood "quite uncommitted" on the question at issue.

Additional Official Correspondence on the Trent Affair 1862

If Captain Wilks suspected the Trent he should have taken her into port for decision.

Foreign and Colonial News 1862

The Congress, so ready the other day with a sycophantic compliment to Captain Wilks, had refused by 109 to 16 to back up his "action" any further, and had referred the question to the Government itself.

London, Saturday, January 4, 1862 1862

The moment they found that the act of Captain Wilks was not sanctioned by international law, a grave, serious, and imperative duty devolved upon them from which they could not shrink.

Opening of Parliament 1862

Captain Wilks had been converted into a hero, and his act had been applauded at a public banquet, and had been commended by the House of

Imperial Parliament 1862

Captain Wilks, misled by a British law book, violated American principles.

Foreign and Colonial News 1862

Captain Wilks, of the San Jacinto received has run on, the public mind has taken a calmer view of the situation; but, nevertheless, there has not appeared any abatement of the resolute determination to hold to the honour of England at all hazards which was the first sensation that pervaded the land.

Our Controversy with America. 1861