Mr. Seward to Mr. Sanford.

No. 24.]

Sir: Your despatch of July 30 (No. 16) has been received.

I am not disappointed, nor do I think we ought to be dissatisfied, with Mr. De Vrière’s reply to your inquiry on the subject of maritime relations.

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You are so frequently at Paris and London, that I may refer you to the legations at one of those places for the latest phase of our negotiation on the same subject with the government of Great Britain. That government having taken the lead in determining European relations to us, and other powers having silently acquiesced, we shall hardly expect them to anticipate her own final decision upon the case, as it is presented to all alike.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Henry S. Sanford, Esq., &c., &c., &c., Brussels.