Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton.
Sir: Your despatch of September 13 (No. 195) has been received. Your proceedings in calling Mr. Thouvenel’s attention to the many rumors circulated by the press concerning Mr. Slidell’s advances towards the French government seem to have been very discreet, and they are approved. Without making it the occasion of a formal communication to Mr. Thouvenel, it is proper that you should express in a casual manner to him the very favorable impression which his frank and candid explanations have made upon the mind of the President.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
William L. Dayton, Esq., &c., &c., &c.