Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.
Sir: I am again in possession of interesting despatches from Europe, which arrived too late to allow of special acknowledgment by the outgoing steamer.
The military situation is gaining interest. The first success of the expedition to Florida has been followed by a painful reverse. Our information is imperfect, but we have reasons for hoping that the ground that has been gained in that State will not be lost.
The newspapers give you reliable intelligence of the movements in Tennessee and Georgia. It is not doubted that Longstreet is retiring from the position he has held in the front of Knoxville. We are waiting with much interest the results of General Sherman’s movement in Alabama. Our earliest information concerning him is expected through insurrectionary channels.
Our naval preparations have been impeded by our inability to enlist men as rapidly as the increase of vessels required. The attractions of the military service drew all volunteers into the land forces. Congress has applied a remedy, and the inconvenience is expected to cease.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
C. F. Adams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.
[Same to Mr. Dayton, No. 494.]