Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward
Sir: It is with the most profound regret that, by a telegram received from the medical adviser of Mr. Dayton, I learn the intelligence of his death by [Page 13] apoplexy last evening. More full information will, of course, be transmitted to you directly from the legation at Paris by the present steamer. I only express the general opinion when I add, that the country has lost in him one of its most valuable public servants, who has proved himself during this critical period a most able, judicious, and discreet representative abroad; thus fully justifying the action of the President in selecting him for a delicate duty. In the relations which I have had with him as a colleague during our residence in Europe, I am happy to say that I have found him uniformly courteous, active, and disposed to co-operation in every case where there was occasion.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.