Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have to acknowledge the reception of despatches from the department numbered 1137, 1138, and 1139, together with two unofficial notes of the 31st of October.
There is no event of public consequence to record this week. The first cabinet meeting of the season was held on Tuesday. It is to be followed by others, notwithstanding that the private talk is that little can be found to prepare for the consideration of Parliament. The usual prorogation has taken place until the 13th of January, at which period the day of the actual meeting for the despatch of business will be designated. This will probably be put off as late as possible.
The latest accounts from the United States bring us down almost to the close of the customary canvass inseparable from the quadrennial election of President. Great interest is felt in this country to learn the result, although the general impression given by the American correspondents of the hostile press is that the government will be sustained. Many predictions are, however, hazarded of [Page 351] domestic disturbances to ensue in the great cities. I am led to indulge the belief that the fact of the existence of such an apprehension will be most likely to supply the means to dispel the danger.
The country has passed through so many of these critical periods in the present struggle without missing its foothold, that there is reason to hope it will now be able to march with a firm step to the end of it.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of state, &c., &c., &c.