Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, January 30, 1863

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: Owing to the delay of the steamer Asia, I did not receive until last evening despatches from the department, numbered from 445 to 448, inclusive. There seems to be nothing in them calling for particular notice.

I transmit herewith a copy of this morning’s Star, which gives the fullest account published of the great meeting last night at Exeter Hall. It seems to have been a most significant indication of the popular sentiment of the middle classes. Some gentlemen tell me that there has been nothing like it here since the time of the anti-corn law gatherings. * * * * At the same time a similar meeting was held at Bradford, in Yorkshire, and one at Stroud, in Gloucestershire, with the same results. I likewise transmit a copy of the Bristol Daily Post of yesterday, giving a report of a meeting held in that place the previous evening.

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