Dallas to The Hon. William H. Seward, April 5, 1861

Mr. Dallas to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatches, numbered 306 and 307, and a circular, dated the 9th of March, 1861, respecting the probable efforts of persons claiming to represent a southern provisional government to obtain the recognition of their independence by Great Britain.

Respecting this last-mentioned subject, I addressed yesterday, as soon as your instruction was received, a note to her Majesty’s principal secretary of state for foreign affairs requesting an early interview, deeming it not impossible that I might be enabled to send you something by this steamer. My note, however, is yet unanswered, owing, I presume, to the absence of Lord John Russell from town. The commissioners from the new confederacy have not yet arrived, and may not arrive until late in this month. You were apprised by my despatch of the 22d ultimo (No. 325) that, on the receipt from the department of your predecessors, No. 304, I had lost no time in placing the matter properly before this government. Your own views will be communicated in greater fullness when the opportunity is allowed me.

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