Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

No. 708.]

Sir: The. conference continues its meetings without as yet arriving at any definite conclusions. It is, however, well understood that the treaty of 1852 has been completely abandoned, and the only question now left is the partition of Denmark, in a greater or less degree. The general expectation out of doors is that some agreement will be arrived at this day. I myself think it likely. If, however, it should turn out otherwise, there are rumors of a projected movement next week in the House of Commons based on the failures against the ministry. The feeling of the majority is such on the Danish question that if actually tested it is not unlikely to carry all before it.

The ministry itself is hanging together more and more loosely. A breath might disperse it. Yet such is the condition of the opposition that no reliance can be placed upon the working of any plan of operations which it may devise. Things may drag on as they are for one more year.

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

CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.