Mr. Haldeman to Mr. Seward.
Sir:The American rebellion and Polish insurrection are lost sight of like an old song, almost forgotten, by the superior attraction and deep interest excited by the universal, marvellous, and mysterious agitation of the great German nation. Many are the causes assigned. The question naturally asked is, is all this the result of an outlying German duchy having a personal union with the kingdom of Denmark, whose king is a German prince? No is the reply. It is a question of “German nationality.” The Germans have ventured on this partial movement only as a prelude to a general movement or revolution, Germany takes up in 1864 her revolution where it came to an end in 1848. Failing then, anxious once more to renew the contest with her rulers, she is now again setting up the old war-cry of Schleswig-Holstein. The question of the Danish succession—the claims of the newly proclaimed duke—has little to do with the matter at issue. The attack is made upon Denmark, but the blow is aimed at Prussia and Austria. No wonder, therefore, if these powers evince hesitation and mistrust, having so much at stake in the matter, so much to fear from enemies both at home and abroad. It is said that a majority of the Diet, coinciding with the nation or revolutionary element, (though from other motives,) have ulterior objects not avowed; hence the glimpse Prussia and Austria now have of the “nether fires” of revolution, endangering the stability of their power, if not their very existence, works powerfully for peace.
The second identical note forwarded by Austria and Prussia to the other German powers is strong evidence of the apprehensions they feel, the peril of the crisis to which they have arrived. The “central committee,” national or self-appointed, says the identical note, in the following strong and threatening language,
“Claims the right of acting for Germany, and of directing the movements of the other associations or unions. Free corps, corps of gymnasts, &c., have been formed for revolutionary purposes; in fact Germany has become a hotbed of revolution. The federal laws of 1854 furnish means for keeping associations like those above mentioned within due bounds. The committee of thirty-six cannot possibly be tolerated, and the representatives of Austria and Prussia at the Bund are instructed to urge the federal governments strictly to uphold their authority, and to take care that peace and order are maintained in Germany.”
In conclusion it is almost unnecessary to speculate at this late date. In a few days acts will speak louder than mere words or idle suppositions; the hostile armies are on either bank of the Eider; an immediate withdrawal or settlement must take place, or the clash of resounding arms will startle Europe, unless the German nation are constituted differently from the rest of mankind.
I remain, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, U. S. of A.