Mr. Seward to Mr. Sanford
Sir: Your despatch of November 25, No. 229, has been received, and I thank you very sincerely for the full account it gives of newspaper opinion in Europe concerning the probable influence of the recent presidential election. I regret with you that Europe does not see American facts more clearly, and reason upon them more wisely. I can well believe that a newspaper in Europe which should speak in the name and with the authority of the government; would in many respects be useful. But, on the other hand, I remain of the opinion I have heretofore expressed to you, that there is no need that the United States should compromise their just dignity by employing other than the customary diplomatic defenders in any part of the world. The rebels naturally subsidize presses in Europe, for they seek favor and aid there. We stand or fall not by means of foreign love or hate, but exclusively by reason of our own physical and moral strength. We wish only good to all Europe. We get in return for this benevolence mingled love and hate. This results from the nature of our institutions, and our unusually elevated aspirations. Let us be content with this situation. We shall thus get through our troubles all the sooner, and be all the safer when they are passed.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Henry S. Sanford, Esq.,. &c., &c., Brussels.