Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: * * * * * *
There is little to note in the events of the past week. The meeting of the new Parliament has been once more postponed to the 1st of February, when it is really to assemble for the despatch of business. It is understood that the Queen has consented to open it in person, though with some conditions attached to the ceremony not heretofore practiced. Much more interest is felt in the action of this new body than ever was attached to the old one. It is generally conceded that the tendency of the cabinet is towards the advanced liberal side; and hence there will certainly be a plan of extending the franchise brought forward as a government measure. Much doubt is felt of the ability of Lord to Russell sustain himself upon it, but the chances seem to me to have been latterly increasing.
I think the tone of the press towards the United States is gradually improving. All the public documents emanating from the Executive department this year have been so good as to produce an excellent effect on the public mind. The position of the country never has been so high before, and if the President can successfully carry out his policy of restoration upon the principles laid down in his message. I foresee little further danger of difficulty here, no matter who may be called to the direction of affairs.
I should be glad to receive a number of copies of the report of the Secretary of the Treasury to circulate among the members of Parliament. It is very highly complimented in the moneyed circles, but not more so than it appears to me fairly to deserve.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.