Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session of the Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow

No. 423.]

Department of State, Washington, March 17, 1866.

Sir :I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 9th of February, No. 265, together with its accompaniment, containing a full account of the speeches recently made at a meeting held in Paris, having for its object the relief of the freedmen in this country.

It is with a feeling of grateful regard that I observe the interest which the eminent speakers manifested on that occasion for the welfare of the United States, and for the condition and elevation of the freedmen.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

John Bigelow, Esq., &c., &c., &c.