Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Despatches from the department numbering from 982 to 991 inclusive, and an enclosure belonging to No. 978, have been received at this legation.
The public interest has been much absorbed by the Danish question the past week. From the report of the proceedings at the conservative meeting, it is made plain, however, that no issue will be tendered to the government involving a change of policy. The ministry remains very feeble, but the opposition, the moment it is brought to face responsibility, becomes timid and wavering. There is much reluctance among the members of the Commons to hazard a dissolution and a new canvass. The general impression is that the debate which is to commence on Monday of next week will be a sharp and rather damaging one to the government, but that it will be productive of no result. The ministerial party count upon being sustained by a majority of perhaps five to ten. Meanwhile the Germans are proceeding against Denmark with vigor and success.
The intelligence from America seems to damp the energies of the rebel sympathizers, though it does not extinguish their hopes. There is little present prospect of a demonstration during this session. After the struggle of next week, should it end as anticipated, it is likely the attendance will begin to fall off, and the ministry will tide over to another year.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State &c., &c., &c.