Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: Your despatch of December 4 (No. 268) has been submitted to the President. He regards with no special satisfaction the growing complications which manifest themselves in European politics, although they may possibly have an influence in abating the prejudices in regard to the United States which have worked them so much injury. We are content to rely upon the justice of our cause, and our own resources and ability to maintain it. It is, however, a source of satisfaction to perceive some evidences that the interests of the British nation, and its natural sentiments, are recovering their former influence upon the British mind, after the violent demonstration which has been witnessed during the last eighteen months. If the active military interference in our conflict of British subjects, who profit remorselessly by the misfortunes of both countries, can be arrested by the government, we may soon hope to see their friendly relations more firmly established than ever heretofore.
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I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.