Mr. Pike to Mr. Seward.

No. 49.]

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of April 16, (No. 51.)

You will have received the reply of the new cabinet here on the question to which that despatch mainly refers, and I await your instructions as to what response, if any, shall be made to that Communication.

Just now this government has under consideration the question of the existing validity of the treaty made between Holland and the United States in October, 1782, to which you had occasion to refer in the recent discussion with Baron Von Zuylen. The cabinet of M. Thorbecke have determined to bring the subject before the legislative body now in session, and a discussion thereon may be expected this week. I shall duly acquaint you with the result of these deliberations.

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,

JAMES S. PIKE.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.