Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-eighth Congress, Part II

Mr. Seward to Mr. Pike.

No. 80.]

Department of State, Washington, December 6, 1862.

Sir: Your despatch of November 19 has been received.

The fact has not escaped the notice of this government that the Emperor of France has opened a correspondence with two other European powers in regard to our affairs. I cannot justly say that this proceeding was necessary to reinspire the American people with devotion to the Union; but I can say that it operates very effectually in this manner.

We shall settle our disturbances, I think, in good time, and in our own way, without foreign aid, and, I hope, without foreign intervention.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

James S. Pike, Esq., &c., &c.