Mr. Pike to Mr. Seward

No. 157.]

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your several despatches, Nos. 196 to 212, inclusive.

The rapid march of military events since the fall of Atlanta, culminating in the reduction of South Carolina, has quite disabled hostile criticism on this side, and destroyed the hopes of our transatlantic enemies. It has at last come to be believed, so far as I can see, universally, that the titter destruction of the rebellion is secured, and that the government of the United States is to rise from the contest more powerful than ever. This belief is, to a considerable extent, accompanied by a serious apprehension that we only wait the final close of the war at home to turn our victorious arms upon Europe. It is singular to see to what extent this view has taken possession of the conservative mind of Europe. β€œThe wicked flee when no man pursueth.”

The Queen mother, sister of the late Emperor Nicholas of Russia, died on the 1st of March. Her funeral will be celebrated here with great pomp on the 17th instant.

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,

JAMES S. PIKE.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington.