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. 48.]

Department of State, Washington, November 30, 1866.

Sir: Excuse me for reminding you of a regulation of this department. Every despatch should be confined to one subject alone. If several subjects are to be treated of, they should be made the bases of distinct despatches. This regulation has its foundation in the necessity which exists for having always convenient references to the records and archives of the department.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

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