Charles Francis Adams to William H. Seward , Secretary, of State, April 7, 1866

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward.

Sir: There is no event to notice during this week, which has been one of repose for the holidays, customary at Easter, unless it be the publication in the Newspapers of the Queen’s letter to Mr. Peabody in acknowledgment of his great benefaction to the poor industrious classes of London. This mode of proceeding is believed to be unexampled on the part of the sovereign. But it appears to be eminently fitting the occasion, and cannot but be an agreeable tribute to the person to whom it is addressed. Mr. Peabody, unlike most architects of their own fortunes, devotes his latter days to the duty of distributing what he has gathered while he yet lives. It is understood that he goes to America for the purpose of completing among his own countrymen the work he has commenced on this side among Englishmen. Thus he proposes to himself the novel and honorable purpose among philanthropists of earning by his munificence the gratitude of millions of future generations of the human race, equally in both hemispheres.

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