Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Owing to the late arrival of the steamer Arabia, I have only this morning received despatches, numbered from 884 to 891 inclusive, together with a paper marked private and confidential. Not having had the necessary time to execute any instructions they contain, I shall defer a particular reference to them until next week.
All other matters have been thrown into the shade by the advent and reception of General Garibaldi. It was a purely popular demonstration, said by good judges to exceed anything of the kind on any previous occasion. * * * * I called upon him at once, and last evening was presented to him, at the grand reception held at Stafford House. His deportment is modest and dignified, and makes a very favorable first impression upon all who see him. I have reason to believe that the other members of the corps diplomatic have avoided noticing him. With the exception of M. Musurus, the Turkish ambassador, none of them were in attendance at Stafford House.
There is much speculation afloat as to the causes of his coming to Great Britain at this time. The wildest rumors have been put in circulation, many of them doubtless by those who fear its effect. * * * * *
In the midst of all this excitement, as well as of the military operations going on in Denmark, the American question has for the moment subsided almost out of notice.
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I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.