Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow
Sir: Your despatch of November 21, No. 199, has been received. You have called my attention therein to a recent publication of Mr. Lamartine. The text of the publication is that America is the property of Europe. The publication has already attracted the attention of the American press. I think I can safely leave the debate where it has thus been taken up.
You direct my attention also to expressions made by the French press concerning apprehended conflict in the valley of the Rhine. It does not seem to me likely that France will, at one and the same time, occupy Matamoras and extend her sway into Germany. Political writers are not hindered by the material obstacles which military powers unavoidably encounter. Nevertheless, notwithstanding this incredulity, I thank you for your attention in these matters.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
John Bigelow, Esq., &c., &c., &c.