Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The address of the house of representatives in response to the discourse from the throne, like that of the senate, was voted, almost without discussion, with great unanimity. It is almost a paraphrase of the King’s speech, and is enclosed herewith.
In view of the critical condition of European politics, and I believe upon the earnestly expressed desire of the King to their leaders, both parties have come to a tacit understanding to avoid party questions, and the exhibition, by the continuance of acrimonious conflict, of internal divisions. The consequence has been that the business of the house has been harmoniously and rapidly conducted, the budget of ways and means of public works, and of the interior, having already been voted without eliciting much discussion.
The attention of Parliament will doubtless be seriously occupied ere long with the questions of better organization and armament of the armed force of Belgium, the national defence, &c., questions which, in common with other countries, now occupy the attention of this government. The subject of the return of the unfortunate legion of Belgian volunteers in Mexico is now pressed upon the government by recent events there, and I understand it is thought to be obtained of the French government and with its troops. Of the 1,500 who formed the legion, but 700 or 600 are supposed to remain in it, one-half having been killed or dispersed in various ways.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.