Mr. King to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Contrary to the opinion very generally entertained, the month of May has expired without bringing any solution of the questions at issue between Austria, Prussia, and Italy; and Europe continues in doubt whether to expect peace or war. The conference or congress proposed by England, France, and Russia could not well be declined, and the coming week will probably witness the opening session. But unless Austria has fully made up her mind to part with Venice, the prospect of an amicable agreement is still remote; and the popular excitement throughout Italy is so great that war can hardly be avoided. The French ambassador, with whom I conversed on the subject a day or two since, seemed to think that hostilities were inevitable and near at hand. Such is, unquestionably, the prevalent belief here.
The cardinal secretary of state, who has been very seriously ill, is, I am happy to say, convalescent. For nearly two weeks he was unable to receive visitors or transact business; and his condition was such as to excite much apprehension. Happily the danger is past. His Holiness could ill afford to lose so able and devoted a councillor.
It is understood that the Pope intends to create three new cardinals within the current month, viz: Monsignor Mantencci and Prince Hohenlohe, both attached to the Papal household, and the distinguished archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Cullen.
The festival of Corpus Domini was celebrated with all customary pomp on Thursday last, his Holiness taking conspicuous part in the procession, and looking remarkably well.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.