Mr. Seward to Mr. Pike.
Washington, September 5, 1861.
Sir: Your despatch of August 18, (No. 13,) has been received, and the opinions it expresses seem to be just, while the information it gives is very satisfactory. Treason is apt to mature its energies before it strikes the first blow; on the other hand, loyalty is unapprehensive of danger and usually waits for conviction of the necessity for defence. The course of this domestic civil war illustrates this maxim. The fortunes of the insurrection hang on immediate success and despatch; efforts, therefore, are made to secure it. I feel sure, on the contrary, that the government has been continually gaining strength with every expenditure of vigor it has made. You will be gratified to learn that the paper issued by the government is at par in the market where gold and silver are recognized as the only lawful tender in the payment of debts.
While you will not hold out inducements of rewards or bounties for soldiers, you may say, whenever it shall seem expedient, that any foreigners arriving in this country will probably find no difficulty in finding military employment.
With a high appreciation of your discretion and vigilance, I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,
James S. Pike, Esq., &c., &c., &c.