[Extract.]

Mr. Marsh to Mr. Seward.

No. 78.]

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your instructions, (Nos. 77 and 78,) and to express my sincere thanks for the leave of absence so kindly granted me.

I have received from several of the ministry warm congratulations on the recent successes of the federal forces, though I have reason to believe that one or two members of the present administration are inclined to espouse the confederate cause. The hope of obtaining the cession of Venice from Austria, as one of the conditions of the establishment of an Austrian prince on the throne of Mexico, is not altogether without influence.

* * * * * * *

I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEORGE P. MARSH.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.