Mr. Dix to Mr. Seward
Sir: I had rather a severe attack of inflammation of the eyes early in July, from which I have only recently recovered. You might otherwise have seen [Page 281] more of my handwriting than my signature. But there has been little to communicate beyond the usual routine of business.
I said to you early in the season that you might confidently rely on the preservation of peace in Europe till after the close of the Exposition. The Italian question is a very embarrassing one for the Imperial government; and should the Papal troops, with the volunteers who are flocking in to aid them from Roman Catholic States, be unable to repress the movement against the temporal power of the Pope, I should not be surprised if serious complications should grow out of it. The Imperial government is actually deliberating in regard to its policy, and its determination cannot long remain unknown.
When I can give you any intelligence not founded on vague rumor, I shall not fail to write promptly.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yours,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.