Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams
Sir. On the 22d instant Major General Scofield moved against Wilmington with the land forces on both sides of the Cape Fear river, and Admiral Porter at the same time advanced on the river, the insurgents withdrew, and the city was surrendered without having made any resistance. Mobile and Galveston, both of which are closely blockaded, are the only ports remaining in the possession of the insurgents. The air is full of reports of concentration and reorganization on the part of the insurgents.
We have no recent information from our armies in the field. The navy is engaged in repairing damages of battle; and Admiral Goldsborough is preparing for a cruise, with a considerable fleet, in European waters.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams. Esq., &c., &c., &c.
(Same, mutatis mutandis, to all our principal ministers in Europe.)