Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

No. 872.]

Sir: Your despatch of the 19th of February, No. 602, has been received. It brings back to us from London the rumors which are set afloat here of revival of the energies of the insurgents, and of military and political embarrassments on our own side, obviously with a design to effect sinister financial or political purposes. It has been our misfortune from the first to have the double task of correcting such reports here, and afterwards discrediting them in Europe. If desertions and divisions are signs of exhaustion, the insurgent cause is weaker to-day than it was a year ago. If growing unanimity in favor of the attitude of the government indicates improvement, the Union cause stands immeasurably better than it has done at any former period.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.