Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Your despatch of February 28, No. 124, has been received. The information which it brings of the improved condition of public opinion in Great Britain in regard to our domestic affairs is highly gratifying.
Since the date of my last despatch the Union forces have gained decided advantages. The financial and moral, as well as the physical elements of the insurrection seem to be rapidly approaching exhaustion. Now, when we so clearly see how much of its strength was derived from the hope of foreign aid, we are brought to lament anew the precipitancy with which foreign powers so unnecessarily conceded to it belligerent rights. The President trusts that you are sparing no efforts to convince Earl Russell [Page 50] that the time has come when that concession can be revoked with safety to Great Britain and advantage to the great material interests of that country.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.