Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I learn unofficially that Mr. ———states as a fact that France, England, and Russia have agreed to recommend to the United States the cessation of hostilities, and the settlement of their controversy with the south. In other words, they are to offer mediation, not together, but separately. That this comes directly from ———, I have no doubt; but there are so many stories afloat, of this or like nature, coming from him, that I cannot give it full credence; more especially as it would seem to conflict with my general information from other quarters. Still, I report the statements to you.
It would seem to me that you must have some information, beyond what I receive here, as to the views of France, from her minister at Washington. If so, may I beg that you will communicate it? I am sure that I need not say that I ask this information from no idle curiosity, but as something essential to a useful discharge of my duties here. Nothing can be more embarrassing than being in the dark upon matter which may have transpired between yourself and the French minister at Washington. As an illustration of this, the only knowledge I had of the actual purpose of Mr. Mercier’s recent visit to Richmond was obtained first from Lord Cowley, the British ambassador, and next, at second hand, from the Emperor. You will, under these circumstances, appreciate at once my embarrassments in falling into conversation with Lord Cowley on this subject. I make this reference, not at all as matter of complaint, but only as an illustration of my meaning when I allude to embarrassments arising from a want of knowledge of what may have transpired, if anything, between yourself and Mr. Mercier. I know and fully appreciate the vast extent of your labors, and it may well be that nothing has recently been communicated by the French government. If so, I beg that you will excuse me for directing your attention to the subject.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
His Excellency Wm. H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.