Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The late cessation of our progress has had the effect of encouraging the hopes of the people here who sympathize with the rebellion. I think there can now be little doubt that they constitute much the greater part of the active classes of this kingdom. The efforts made by insurgent emmissaries to stimulate the popular discontents have not, however, been thus far attended with much effect. A most elaborate attempt of the kind at Blackburn, countenanced by a member of Parliament of some influence in the place, was signally defeated. Yet it is not to be disguised that the great rise that has occurred in the price of cotton will be attended by a diminution of the manufacture and a consequent enlargement of unemployed operatives. So long as Parliament remains in session, I am inclined to the belief that no particular consequences are to be apprehended. But, after the adjournment, should things appear to go on adversely with us, I shall not be surprised if some occasion be improved to plunge us into difficulty. It is at any rate my duty to prepare your mind for every such possibility. In this connexion I am constantly forced to observe how eagerly every act in the United States is caught up that may by possibility cast odium on the government. In this connexion it is not to be denied that General Butler is furnishing a good deal of material. Without desiring to express an opinion on the merits of his proceedings, I cannot help regretting that they appear at this distance to wear an aspect of want of courtesy toward the agents of foreign nations, which tends at this precise moment to increase the distrust with which our policy is regarded. I cannot help thinking that some form of general instructions to military officers holding responsible commands, in regard to the regulation of their official language, might tend to put a stop to many of the difficulties which have been experienced in the present contest. I cannot doubt that the reputation of the country abroad would be materially aided by such a measure.
I learned yesterday, from a credible source, that it is the intention of some of the ministers this evening to take new ground on the subject of America, should Mr. Lindsay decide to press his motion. Should such prove to be the case, I shall forward a report of the debate to-morrow, by mail, via Queenstown.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.