Mr. Clay to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have received your No. 68, and also your circular 543. For the summary of the military situation accept my sincere thanks, for the conflicting statements in the newspapers leave us always in a state of uncertainty and [Page 287] anxiety. We have news of General Grant’s battles up to the 12th instant, and intelligence from New York still later. It seems, at last, that we have a general who follows up a victory and understands the importance of concentration. Whatever may be the result of the difficult campaign towards Richmond, all Europe feels that Grant has added new laurels to his already well-earned fame; and that, if he fails, it will be only because success is impossible; however that may be, final triumph of our arms must come sooner or later. “The Union, it must be preserved!”
Our relations with this court continue to be of the most cordial character. I have the honor to be your most obedient servant,
C. M. CLAY.
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
Note.—I send you the official report of the Russian budget for 1864.