[Extracts.]

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

No. 564.]

Sir: I have to acknowledge the reception of despatches, numbered 782 to 785, inclusive; likewise copies of the President’s message at the opening of Congress, and two bound volumes of Commercial Relations in 1862.

The message has, on the whole, met with a more favorable reception here than any preceding one under the present administration. It is construed as indicative of a restoration, both in the government and the people, to a state of consolidation which had not been looked for, and I may perhaps justly add, by no means desired. On the other hand, the address of Mr. Davis has done much to confirm the impression that the power of rebel resistance is gradually passing away.

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[Page 60]

In a review of the unfavorable appearances tending to such a result, which appeared in the same newspaper [The Times] a day or two since, is to be found a singular sentiment, of sufficient importance, in my opinion, to merit your especial attention. It is conveyed in the following sentence:

“In our two greatest risks and largest fields of danger our securities are of a very opposite character. We depend upon peace in Europe and upon war in America, for it is but too probable that a reconciliation between the southern and northern states, upon any terms, will be immediately followed by the most preposterous demands on this country.”

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I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,

CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS.

Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State.