To Russell, however, the blockade appearing negligible in probable effect and also not open to objection by neutrals if regularly established, it seemed that any immediate danger to British trade was averted by the final American action on the "Southern Ports" Bill.

It was not until the blockade did begin to be thoroughly effective that either the British public or Government gave it serious consideration.
Not again until late November did Russell return with any interest to the subject of the blockade and then it was again on an American effort which seemed to indicate the ineffectiveness of blockading squadrons and a plan to remedy this by unusual, even "uncivilized," if not illegal, methods.

This was the "Stone Boat Fleet" plan of blocking Charleston harbour by sinking vessels across the entrance bar[532].

The plan was reported by Lyons and the news received in England at the most uncertain moment as to the outcome of the _Trent_ controversy[533].

British press and Government at first placed no stress on it, presumably because of the feeling that in view of the existing crisis it was a minor matter.
In the same week Lyons, having been asked by Russell for an opinion on the blockade, answered: "I am a good deal puzzled as to how I ought to answer your question whether I consider the Blockade effective.