Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session Thirty-eighth Congress, Part II

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

No. 1180.]

Department of State, Washington, December 5, 1864.

Sir: Lord Lyons, suffering much from neuralgia, goes home on a leave of absence. I am desirous that Earl Russell shall understand how deeply this incident is regretted by this government, and how desirous we are for Lord Lyons’s recovery and return to our country. I give you a copy of my note to him in, reply to his letter informing me of his purpose.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

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

Mr. Seward to Lord Lyons.

Department of State, Washington, Sunday morning, December 4, 1864.

My Dear Lord Lyons: I agree with you that it is best that you go away for a time—I hope not a long one. And yet I feel that my cares and difficulties will be seriously increased by your withdrawal.

I shall be happy to see you to-morrow at twelve o’clock, and I will then attend you to the Executive mansion, where the President will receive you, I am sure, with sincere kindness and sympathy.

Very truly your friend,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Right Hon. Lord Lyons, &c., &c., &c.