Mr. Seward to Mr. Blatchford
Sir: Your very interesting despatch of March 7 (No. 6) has been received.
The report of the resignation of the cardinal secretary of state excited much surprise in this country.
In his case, as in that of other statesmen, the opinions of men concerning him are determined chiefly by their favor or disfavor towards the system he supports. But I think there is an universal acknowledgment of the great abilities, the consummate skill, and the inflexible firmness with which he has hitherto conducted an administration encountering difficulties that, speculatively regarded, seemed insurmountable.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,