Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I transmit herewith the resolutions adopted at a public meeting held on the 1st instant, at West Hartlepool. * * * It is a singular feature of this struggle in America, that its merits should be debated at popular meetings held all over this kingdom. The associations of sympathizers with the insurgents have of late been assiduously engaged in sending paid agents to deliver lectures in behalf of their cause at various places. This has given occasion to counter efforts. Frequently discussions are held by representatives of both sides. I very much doubt whether anything precisely similar ever took place here before. The expediency of initiating such a practice, viewed purely as a domestic question, appears to me to admit of much doubt. * * *
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
[Page 45]RESOLUTIONS.
That this meeting in the town of West Hartlepool, convened by public advertisement, and under the presidency of Ralph Ward Jackson, esq., of Greatham Hall, having heard from Edward Grubb, esq., of Rotheram, statements respecting the civil war at present being waged in the United States of America, is of opinion that the time is now come when it is proper to reaffirm the sentiment which has so long distinguished the British people against the system of slavery in all its forms; and in consistency with that sentiment, this meeting is further of the opinion that the conduct of the United States government, in the prosecution of the war, merits the approval and moral support of all Englishmen.
That a copy of this resolution be transmitted by the chairman of this meeting to the American legation in London.
Moved by the Reverend J. Martin.
Seconded by Mr. E. Lowden.
Adopted by the meeting, with two hands held up against it.
December 1, 1863.