Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward
Sir: I am just informed, in a private way, that suggestions for another effort are about being made between England and France to bring about peace in our country. No formal or official suggestion has been made from either side, nor is it supposed will be, and M. Drouyn de l’Huys says, I am informed, that he knows nothing about it; but it is reported to me as a fact officiously, [Page 101] though not officially, resolved upon. Of course it is said that this effort is to be of the most conciliatory character, &c. I have had so many advices and reports of this kind that I have lost faith in them, and do not permit them to disturb me; but I have been advised, for some time past, that something was stirring in reference to our affairs, and there may be more truth in this report than some that have gone before it.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.