Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The new house of representatives met on the 3d instant, and, after three days’ animated debates on contested elections, was organized on the 6th by the re-election of its former officers.
The credits left in suspense by the dissolution of the last house were voted; the proposition of M. Orts, increasing the popular representation in the national legislature, with a modification providing for an additional senator from Brussels, instead of, as originally proposed, from Louvain, was reported from the sections for first reading, lies over, and will probably be acted on next session, and the house adjourned sine die on the 3d instant.
There were two incidents in this short session worthy of notice: the first was a discussion upon an interpellation by M. Coomans, touching the organization in this country of a Belgian legion for service in Mexico, for details of which I beg to refer to my despatch No. 214; and the other the debate upon the supplementary credit of 5,575,000 francs for the completion of the fortifications of Antwerp.
This latter question, upon which the liberal party is not united, gave rise to a lively and acrimonious discussion, and was decided by a close vote in favor of the government, which would seem to owe to the abstention of some members, and the absence of others, an escape from a possible defeat.
This long-agitated subject of the fortifications of Antwerp thus seems to be finally disposed of, saving at Antwerp, where local interests will probably for some time to come be occupied with it.
I enclose from the Moniteur the debate, which is interesting, especially the able defence by General Chazal, the minister of war, of the system and policy of fortifications.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.