Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. Clay

No. 124.]

Department of State, Washington, February 7, 1865.

Sir: Your despatch of the 8th ultimo, No. 68, treating of the emancipation of the serfs, and the promulgation by the Emperor of a new code of laws, has been received. These reforms are very creditable to the government of Russia, and they cannot but be gratifying to friends of liberty and humanity throughout the world.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Cassius M. Clay, Esq., &c., &c., &c.