Mr. Seward to C. M. Clay .

No. 4.]

Sir: We have received Mr. Appleton’s despatch of the 8th of April, (No. 16.) The manner in which Prince Gortchacow has expressed himself on the subject of the domestic disturbances in our country, and the anticipated application of the insurgents for a recognition of their assumed authority, is in harmony with the friendly spirit which Russia has always manifested towards the United States, and in the main is quite satisfactory. We might, indeed, have felt ourselves bound to except to the claim that while matters should remain as they were assumed to be when this conversation was held, irregularities in the observance of our revenue laws practiced by foreign nations would be expected to be overlooked by this government; but that question has passed by. We have put our land and naval forces in motion to suppress the insurrection, and have closed the ports which have been seized by the revolutionists by a blockade. You may, if occasion shall offer, assure the Russian government that we expect that the unhappy disturbance will not continue long, and that peace and harmony will return, and the Union be stronger and firmer than ever before.

Mr. Appleton’s judicious and energetic conduct in this connexion is approved and appreciated by the President.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.