Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams
Sir: I have received your dispatch of the 20th of March, No. 1556. The interesting account which you have given of demonstrations of personal respect and consideration which have been made on the occasion of your anticipated retirement by members of the British branch of the international league for peace, and many other British subjects, has been brought to the notice of the President, and they are regarded by him with very great satisfaction. It has seldom if ever before happened that the representative of one country has performed diplomatic services in another, through so long, so difficult, and so eventful a period, and with such success as to sensibly increase not merely the estimation in which the minister was previously held in both countries, but to increase also the popular feeling of good will in both nations.
I felicitate you upon this honorable termination of labors which have been equally loyal, discreet and toilsome.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.