[Extract.]

Mr. Corwin to Mr. Seward

No. 37.]

Sir: No act of the French government or troops has been known here, since my last despatch, whereby it can be certainly known what the ultimate designs of the Emperor are towards Mexico.

The French forces are moving towards Puebla, on the two lines of Jalapa and [Page 1234] Orizaba. It is now quite certain that they will attack Puebla before they march upon the capital. The Mexican officers here express the opinion that Puebla cannot be taken by the present force moving against it, while, it is certain, that the tried and experienced commander of the French army, being well informed as to the defences of the place, has little, if any, doubt of success.

THOMAS CORWIN.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c.