Mr. Seward to Mr. Clay .

No. 9.]

Sir: Mr. Appleton’s despatch of May 22, (June 3,) No. 18, has been received.

It contains the orders in admiralty on the subject of the treatment of American vessels during the present condition of our internal affairs.

The subject seems to call for no special instruction to you, except to express to the Russian government the satisfaction which this government feels in regard to the conduct and friendly action of the Emperor.

Mr. Appleton is now with us, and we are deriving much profit from the information he gives. We learn your high appreciation of his conduct in his mission with pleasure.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Cassius M. Clay, Esq., &c., &c., &c.