Sir F. Bruce to Mr. Seward
My Dear Sir: I heard last night from the Canadian government that the prisoners have been respited to the 13th of March, by which time all the trials will be over, and the subject of the commutation of the sentences can be maturely considered.
The sentence of death will certainly not be executed, and I need not add how desirable it is that nothing should take place on the Canadian frontier to interfere with the disposition to lenity which I know is entertained by her Majesty’s government, and which will be strengthened by the presence of Lord Monck in England, whither he proceeds by next mail.
I remain, my dear sir, yours, very faithfully,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.