Mr. Motley to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No. 130, of date 13th of March, containing military news, especially in relation to Major General Sheridan’s magnificent expedition, which certainly seems to be one of the most remarkable exploits of this or of any war.
We are looking with intense anxiety, but with highest hope, upon the development of our vast military drama, of which the details, obviously prearranged by the hand of a great master in the art of war, seem rapidly bringing about the catastrophe for which the whole world has so long been almost breathlessly waiting.
The exposition of the political situation of Richmond, referred to in your despatch, has also reached me, and I have read it with very great interest. Of course the importance of such pictures depends upon their accuracy, and upon the opportunities of the artist who paints them. As you seem to have been satisfied as to their fidelity, I need not say how closely I have studied them.
I have the honor to remain, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward &c., &c., &c.