Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Despatches numbered 753, 754, and 755 have been received from the department at this legation. The customary measures to attain the objects specified in each of them have been taken, and a report will be made so soon as the results are known.
I have the honor to transmit a newspaper report of the remainder of the proceedings in the case of the Alexandra. No decision has yet been announced from the court. If it should be unfavorable to the motion, it is understood that the government will take an appeal to the higher court. The earnestness and vigor displayed by the law officers of the crown in the prosecution of this case on the present occasion leave nothing to be desired. It gives me pleasure to be able to bear this testimony at last.
The refusal of this government to go into the congress proposed by the French emperor will put an end to that project. Very possibly it may lead to new combinations all over Europe. In the mean time the Danish question is assuming an aspect more and more serious. The popular sentiment of Germany may prove difficult to control. Should it become impossible, war seems inevitable. In any event, the prospect is that the winter will be consumed in agitation and diplomatic negotiation on this subject. The bearing of this on American affairs I have already frequently descanted on. So long as this state of things shall continue, it is not probable that any efforts in favor of the rebels will make headway in this country. I have just had an opportunity to see the latest scheme of an association, set agoing under the auspices of that industrious patron of their cause, * * * * The object of the movement is to operate upon Parliament at the approaching session. In the mean while Mr. Spence is employed in making popular addresses for the purpose of organizing something that may look like public opinion.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.