Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I presume it is hardly necessary to call your attention to the remarks made by Lord Palmerston in the House of Commons on Monday night upon the subject of the latest amendment of the slave trade treaty, as well as to the debate which followed. As an indication of the disposition of the ministry it is, perhaps, valuable; but I cannot flatter myself that it materially varies the impression heretofore made on me of the temper of the members generally towards America. The least that can be expected from them is abstinence from action of any kind. Thus far no sign has been given of any other policy. Neither is it now likely that any change will take place, even should Mr. Roebuck persevere in his movement on the 30th instant, unless the news from [Page 312] America should, in the interval, become such as to give it some extraordinary ground of support.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c.