Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, July 7, 1866

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: The newspapers will carry out to you by this day’s steamer the intelligence of the extraordinary step taken by Austria in ceding Venetia to the Emperor of France, and the overtures made by the latter to the two powers of Prussia and Italy to procure for her an armistice preliminary to a negotiation for peace.

The impression this morning is that the disposition of the victors is not favorable. A little reflection may, however, serve to convince them that neither of the three great neutral powers will look with much favor upon projects of overthrowing Austria completely.

The development of this great drama which will now take place must be of the highest possible importance to the future condition of Europe, as it cannot fail to end in material changes in the relative position of the great powers.

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