Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session of the Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. King.

No. 47.]

Department of State, Washington, November 30, 1866.

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of November 10th, No. 66. It is a subject of sincere regret that John H. Surratt effected his escape from the Papal guard. Your proceedings in communicating on that subject so promptly with Mr. Marsh, at Florence, are approved and commended. It is hoped that Surratt’s rearrest may be effected. In that expectation I shall lose no time in communicating, through that minister, with the Italian government at Florence. You cannot express too strongly to Cardinal Antonelli the satisfaction of the President with the friendly and prompt proceedings of the Papal government.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Rufus King, Esq., &c., &c., &c.