Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit copies of the London Times, containing a full report of the debate in the House of Commons during the last two nights on the enfranchising measure of the government. I have myself attended the discussion, which was terminated at half-past two o’clock this morning, by the triumph of the government in one of the fullest divisions that has been known for many years.
This result has been arrived at through an extraordinary dislocation of both the great party combinations. On the one hand many of the most radical wing of the opposition sustained the minister, whilst on the other several of the extreme conservatives were found in the ranks of the liberal leader. The meaning of this is that a controlling portion of the majority do not intend to sanction any proceeding having for its chief object a mere change of ministry. Great differences of opinion exist as to the practical operation of both the plans of reform which were set in contrast with each other. Much may depend upon the changes which the ministerial measure may yet undergo. In any event the success of some sort of plan this session is made more likely than it was a few days ago.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.