Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward
Sir: The message of the President has been widely republished here, and has confirmed and deepened the profound impression produced by the elections. Its compactness has also contributed to assure it a more general circulation than has been usually given to such documents.
Its unyielding position with regard to slavery has destroyed effectually the only remaining argument of our enemies, which had much influence on the popular mind abroad—that slavery had nothing to do with the war, and would be protected even if the south would not yield.
The impression on all sides, so far as I can observe, is, that the rebellion is approaching its end, and that the cause of the Union must triumph.
It would have been of great utility if there had been sent abroad, at the same time with the message, copies of the departmental reports. They excite a good deal of interest, are much sought after, and could have been very effectually employed among public men and the organs of public opinion before they came emasculated in substance and spirit, through the medium of a hostile press.
I have the honor to be, with great respect your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.