Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward, March 22, 1866

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have to acknowledge the reception of despatches from the department, numbered from 1696 to 1704, inclusive.

Little has happened worthy of note this week. Parliament Fill adjourn tomorrow for the Easter holidays, which are extended this year rather longer than usual. Meanwhile the supply bills have been advanced through their respective stages to such a point that their passage is a matter of course at any time. The struggle on the ministerial measure of reform will take place immediately on the reassembling of the bodies. Great doubt has been thrown on its success by an announcement of a motion by Lord Grosvenor, the son and heir of the Westminster title and estates, which, if it prevails, must inevitably overturn the government. Coming from that quarter, the issue can scarcely be regarded as doubtful. This opens up a prospect of a popular agitation more serious and lasting than has taken place in this country for near half a century.

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