Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have to acknowledge the reception of a note from H. N. Congar, commissioner of immigration, dated the 18th of December, in relation to an application made by Mr. Thomas W. Conway to the Department of State for letters of introduction to persons here to promote his object of obtaining aid for labor in the southern plantations. Such an application was scarcely necessary. If Mr. Conway only brings out proper evidence of his commission he will find all the persons really interested in his objects already so thoroughly organized here as to furnish him at once with the best channels through which to conduct his operations.
I learn that a considerable sum of money has already been obtained by a few of the Georgia planters, themselves at Manchester, with which to commence in good faith extensive experiments with freed labor. The appeals first made by them to those whom they had considered as sympathizers during the war, met with no response. All alike disbelieved in the disposition of the negro to labor. It was only by turning to the opposite class, which had been friendly to the United States, that they succeded in their object. I learn that they have [Page 43] gone home fully confident that with the command of actual cash in hand there will be no difficulty whatever in securing any amount of labor. Large purchases of lands are contemplated by this new association, upon which to carry on the experiment.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.