Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, February 19, 1864

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have the honor to transmit a copy of my note to Lord Russell of the 12th instant, in reply to his of the 8th, heretofore sent forward with my despatch No. 596. I also append a copy of his note of acknowledgment of the 13th.

The movements of the rebel agents continue quite actively. The steamer with a mysterious destination is still here. You doubtless continue to receive full reports concerning her. The efforts to sustain confidence in the ability to resist are very strong. The Richmond correspondent of the London Times, a person by the name of Lawley, arrived here in the Scotia, and is laboring to the best of his ability to sustain the hopes of their ultimate success. I have reason to believe that he has had interviews with Lord Palmerston on the one side, and with leading friends of the United States on the other, in which he professes to communicate the results of his observation. Without knowing the object which the rebels have in view in using this man, I am inclined to infer it must be some ultimate project of an offer of mediation. There is no reason for supposing that any such notion will be favorably received by the present government.

The rumors of changes in the military commands again produce unfavorable impressions of the management of the war. Among other things which I hear reported by Mr. Lawley is the hope of the rebel commander that General Meade may be superseded.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,