Russell's reply ignored that point altogether[1039].

It did not suit his purpose to declare, flatly, the fact that in April assurances had been given both to Adams and through Lyons to Seward, that measures would be taken to prevent the departure of Southern vessels from British ports.

To have made this disclosure would have required an explanation _why_ such assurance had been given and this would have revealed the effect on both Russell and Lyons of the Northern plan to create a _cruising squadron blockade by privateers_.

_There_ was the real threat.

The later delays and seeming uncertainties of British action made Adams anxious but there is no evidence that Russell ever changed his purpose.