Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: In conversation with Lord Stanley, at a private house, the other day, he gave me to understand that his answer to your despatch was prepared, and that, according to the forms customary in such cases, it would he sent through Sir F. Bruce, in the same manner that yours was sent through me. At the same time, he promised to send me a copy for my information.
On Wednesday evening, accordingly, I received from his lordship, in a note marked private, two printed copies of the two despatches. They correspond in substance with what I had expected. Notwithstanding the reserves in the argument designed to save the honor of the preceding government, the substantial point of reopening negotiation seems to be conceded. I trust it may be the means of ultimately arriving at some form of settlement.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.