Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward
Sir: The accounts received from Mexico of the execution of the Archduke Maximilian have created a strong sensation in all influential circles here. The [Page 116] court has been directed to wear mourning for three weeks, on the ground of the relationship of the Queen to the wife, through her father, the late King of the Belgians. There is a pretty strong wish expressed for the intervention of the United States by taking forcible possession of the country. To all such remarks, when made to me by distinguished persons, I reply that such a course is neither consistent with our established principles nor expedient for ourselves.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.