Mr. Kirk to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The 4th of July passed quietly. I had, as usual, calls from the miniters of government and foreign ministers. The United States war steamers Shamokin and Kansas fired a salute in honor of the day, which was returned by this government.
Since my despatch of May 29, nothing of particular importance has occurred. The army occupies the same position now it did then. I suppose Mr. Washburn has fully advised you of everything in regard to its movements, he being in that locality.
This government, since my residence here, has lost no opportunity to show its friendship for the United States; and their great ambition is to adopt our institutions as near as possible. Several of our leading works have recently been translated into Spanish, the last, just published, being Curtis on the Constitution.
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I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.