Message of the President of the United States to the Two Houses of Congress, at the Commencement of the Second Session of the Thirty-seventh Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. Sanford.

No. 12.]

Department of State,
Washington, July 8, 1861.

Sir: Your despatch of June 22 (No. 9) was duly received. It is, in the main, not unsatisfactory, so far as the subject of our domestic affairs is concerned.

In regard to the rights of friendly or neutral powers in maritime war, the subject has become somewhat complicated, and it would be a tedious labor to make a distinct explanation to each of our ministers abroad. I send you instead, confidentially, a copy of my last despatch on this subject to Mr. Dayton. It may serve as a guide to your own conduct in relation to the subject.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Henry S. Sanford, Esq., Brussels.