Mr. Yeaman to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The Schleswig question is still cause of dissatisfaction and excitement here. I have before stated that the “bills of annexation” proposed to the Prussian Parliament embraced the whole Duchy. After the passage of these bills a leading Berlin organ, the Nord-Zeitung, declared that the Duchy question had “ceased to exist.” Since annexation the Duchy is divided into election districts for the election of members of the Parliament of the North German confederation, and the men within the military ages are being enrolled by order as a part of the Prussian forces, in consequence of which it is alleged that an immense and hasty emigration, in the inclement months of winter, is going on from the north part of the Duchy, and that from some neighborhoods this movement of the population is en masse.
It is quite possible that after all this, the clause of the treaty of Prague referring to North Schleswig may be in some sort executed; but few here expect it, and all openly avow their lack of confidence that there will be an execution in good faith and fairness. It is probably true that most of the friends of progress, liberalism and nationality throughout Europe were rejoiced at the late military and political successes of Prussia; and equally true that the conduct of the cabinet of Berlin in regard to Schleswig, under the treaty of peace, whatever may be the causes or the ultimate justification of that conduct, has so far given pain and disappointment in every other capital of Europe.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington.