Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward.
Sir:The ministerial crisis still continues. The King, after calling in turn, and without result, M. de Broukère and M. Pirmey, both members of the liberal party, to form a cabinet, has turned to the conservative party, and M. Deschamps and M. de Theux have been, in succession, summoned to the palace, but with the same result. It would seem that none are willing to undertake the reins of government without the power to dissolve the Chambers—a strictly party cabinet being impracticable in the present condition of parties in the Chambers, where, owing to the death of one of the liberal members, M. Coumont, they are equally balanced.
The conservatives desire a cabinet without political character, and for business solely, as a sort of interregnum till the next election. The other party are not disposed to enter into such a combination, and desire to throw upon the conservatives the onus of carrying on the government, or declaring their incapacity to do it; and this condition of things is likely to remain for some time longer. Meanwhile, there is a good deal of excitement and agitation on the subject throughout the country.
It would be a matter of no surprise to me if, as before stated, the crisis should result in the permanent withdrawal of two or three members only of the cabinet. If, however, they remain fixed in their present position, of standing or falling together, and the party remains equally determined not to accept a “business” cabinet, the probabilities are that a cabinet of one or the other party will be formed with the permission to dissolve the Chambers, and they will accordingly promptly appeal to the people through new elections.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.