Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow
Sir: I have read with care the essay of the Count de Montalembert upon the victory of the north in the united States, transmitted with your despatch of the 31st of May, No. 110. While it is written with great candor, it gives abundant evidence of study, care, and scrupulous accuracy in regard to facts. At the same time it has a dignity of thought and a largeness of philosophy that entitle it to be classed with that remarkable work of de Tocqueville with which the whole world is acquainted. I am glad to see that the United States have found so great and generous a defender within the conservative ranks of France. The work must exert a great and favorable influence in Europe. I shall endeavor [Page 331] to have it reproduced here, for it contains matter very worthy of reflection by even those of us who have acted in the late political trials through which the country has passed. The venerable statesman’s work has attracted the attention of the President, and he authorizes me to signify his approval of what I have thus written upon the subject. It may be proper for you to make these sentiments, thus approved, known to the Count.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
John Bigelow, Esq., &c., &c., &c.