Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The uneasiness in Ireland occasioned by the declarations made in America, and the announcement of the subsequent departure of Stephens, with the avowed intention of heading an insurrection, has increased to such a degree as to put a stop to many of the operations of business. Arrests are made of suspected individuals in all directions; new regiments of troops are sent over from this kingdom, and all the apparatus of war put into requisition in expectation of an outbreak. The true grounds for this alarm do not appear in any distinct form to the general public. Neither have the examinations of the arrested parties thus far elicited any material evidence to incriminate them. Yet the feelings of the army and the loyal classes are becoming so much excited, that if any rising should be attempted I much fear it will not be treated with the same lenity that has thus far prevailed. There is yet existing the old Orange hatred, which will need only some pretext to break out with its ancient fury. I trust that the precautions taken may be sufficient to prevent any feeble demonstration, that might only serve to develope this ferocity without doing, good to any one.
As yet I do not learn that any of the persons arrested claim to be citizens of the United States, with one exception, that of James Donnelly, who has been, liberated on a representation made in his favor by Mr. West.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.