Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have not written you for some time past about Mexican affairs, because I have felt that you already understand the intentions of this government in the premises as well as can be gathered from their declarations.
I have no reason to suppose they mean otherwise than as they have heretofore stated. They will get their large reinforcements to Vera Cruz and disembark them after the sickly season, and march to Mexico if they can. They have, however, lost faith, as I am informed, in Almonte, and are not further disposed to jeopard their cause by identifying it with him or his interests. In the meantime I learn from a private despatch (which I have seen) from the minister of foreign affairs in Mexico to——— ———, that the government of Juarez yet entertains a hope of being able to induce the government of France to negotiate with it, and thus end the invasion. This hope, however, is founded principally upon the mistaken belief that France would not send out to Mexico further [Page 385] reenforcements. If a fair opening shall occur by which she, France, can retire with her honor, her disposition, I think, would be to do so. General Concha, the newly arrived ambassador from Spain at this court, will be received, it is said, at an early day. An attempt is being made through the journals to induce a belief that Spain is willing again to co-operate with France in Mexico. That she wishes to re-establish the friendly feeling and intercourse between the two countries (slightly clouded by the retirement of General Prim from Mexico) is not to be doubted, but I cannot suppose that she will for a moment enter into any new arrangement inconsistent with the original convention adopted in London between the three powers. General Miramon has again left France and sailed, or is about to sail, with his family for the United States.
I have been informed that certain officials of the government of Guatemala, in Paris, have said that it was not, and had not in any event been, the intention of that country to connect itself with Mexico, but that should Mexico adopt another form of government it would probably follow her example. The fact is that the great body of the citizens of Central America (so far as I can judge from their representatives at this court, have a very imperfect idea of what republican government is.
There is nothing specially new or interesting here at this moment. The Emperor’s fête, which takes place the 15th inst., is now, by anticipation, attracting the attention of Paris. Great preparations are being made for its celebration. Amongst other matters, the Emperor on that day receives the officers of state, and the whole diplomatic corps dine with the minister of foreign affairs.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
His Excellency William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.