Office of the Historian

Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward.

No. 367.]
Legation of the United States, Brussels, June 14, 1866.

Sir: The letter of the Emperor of the French to M. Drouyn de Lhuys, which was read by the minister of state in the corps legislatif on the 12th instant, has naturally excited much attention and remark here, and cannot be considered as having made a favorable impression, while proclaiming views which have generally been ascribed to him. The color of justice he gives to the pretensions of Italy and Prussia with respect to the extension of their frontiers, seems to be considered as applying also to those of France, as well as an indication of ultimate action in their favor.

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While there seems to be no apprehension that any appeal to the people would result in the expression of a desire for annexation, and that the visits which the King is about to make in the provinces will demonstrate most conclusively the general sentiment of this people in favor of their nationality and their sovereign, I presume it will be the policy of the party in power to pursue a policy of conciliation towards their opponents, and to avoid questions which, to a large number of the population, appear to be attacks upon their church, and which tend to excite ill feeling and animosities. It would certainly be wise at this juncture.

I do not think the people could be excited to assent to annexation to France, much less to demand it, but dissension might be stimulated and excesses brought about in partisan conflicts by those interested in promoting them sufficient to give pretext, were it desired, for intervention in some shape.

This government has made no warlike preparations in view of the complications which threaten. The fortifications at Antwerp are now sufficiently complete to make it the most, or one of the most impregnable places of Europe. The Belgian army could be made to number over 60,000 effective men in a few days by calling in the soldiers on leave, and sufficient to hold Antwerp for a long time against any force.

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,

H. J. SANFORD.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D, C.