March 8, 1861; The Charleston Mercury
Important Notification of the English and French Governments.
WASHINGTON, March 4. – I learn that Lord LYONS, the British Minister, has officially notified the American Government that Great Britain will not recognize a blockade of the Southern ports, unless it is thorough and effectual, and that the mere announcement of a blockade, in accordance with the Treaty of Paris, will not be recognized.
In order to make the blockade of the Southern ports thus complete, the American Government must have vessels enough to blockade every port, otherwise the British Government will feel themselves compelled in accordance with their engagements with other powers, to disregard the restriction, and carry on their commerce with the Southern port as if no such blockade had been announced.
It is understood that it is also the intention of M. MORCIER, the French Minister, to give the same notification to the Government in regard to France, and that all the European Powers, in consequence of the peculiar relations they have with the commerce of the world, will likewise take advantage of the Treaty of Paris, and act in accordance with the policy adopted by the French and English Governments.– N. Y. Herald.