Mr. Seward to Mr. Clay.
Washington, August 12, 1861.
Sir: Your despatch of 21st of June (No. 4) has been received. The account which it gives us of your reception by the Emperor of Russia, and of the just purposes and friendly wishes expressed by him in relation to the United States, is eminently satisfactory. I sincerely hope that the good understanding which now exists between the two governments may continue. I am sure you need no new instructions to enable you to say that we rejoice in the peaceful progress of the means which the Emperor has initiated for meliorating the condition of the people of Russia.
Your suggestions concerning certain modern improvements of rifled cannon have been commended to the consideration of the Secretary of War.
We wait with interest upon your negotiation on the subject of the rights of neutrals in maritime war, which your despatch leads us to suppose you will already have commenced before this communication shall have reached St. Petersburg.
I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,
Cassius M. Clay, &c., &c., &c