Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward.
Sir: You will have seen before this by the debates in the British Parliament, as well as by the announcement in the journals of St. Petersburg, that the rumor I gave you a few days since of an intended mediation in our affairs (growing out of a statement of —— ——) has no foundation in fact. I may add here that, immediately after the reception of the news of our defeats (as they are called) before Richmond, Mr. Slidell started for Vichy, where the Emperor was then staying. Upon his arrival there, he sought, as I am informed, an interview with his Majesty, which was denied to him. I very much doubt if he has ever, on any occasion, exchanged a word with the Emperor. The newspapers of the United States have made the most ridiculous statements in reference to their pretended interviews at [Page 376] times and places where I was myself present, and where I know Mr. Slidell was not.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
His Excellency William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.