Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward, November 15, 1862

Mr. Adams to Mr.
Seward.

Sir: The reply of Earl Russell to the French
note which is published in all the morning papers is sent herewith. It
is sufficiently decisive to answer all present purposes. I have just
returned from my conference with his lordship on the subject of the
convention. The conversation which ensued was too long to be reported to
day. I can only say that it was friendly and satisfactory. I inquired if
he had any information of the answer of the Russian court. He said that
he had received only an abstract of it by the telegraph. I understood
him that, in substance, it contained an expression of great interest in
the communication, a desire not to stand in the way of any joint action
that might be determined on by the two powers, and a profession of a
wish to help on any measures to restore peace in America that might be
likely to prove acceptable to the United States. * * * * * * *

It is a little remarkable that, both in England and France, the tendency
of public opinion is gradually to fall into the old channel of party
divisions. The advocates of strong power side with the rebels, whilst
the more I beral and popular party befriend the cause of the government.
This is becoming more and more visible as the struggle goes on. Efforts
are now making here, with a good prospect of success, for a more
effective organization of the anti-slavery sentiment in our behalf.

Since writing the above I have received the following telegram,
purporting to give the substance of the Russian answer :

“St. Petersburgh, November 15.

“The ‘Journal de St. Petersburgh’ of to-day contains the reply of Prince
Gortschak off to the note of M. Drouyn de l’Huys.

“The Prince, after recalling the constant efforts of Russia in favor of
conciliation in America, says: ‘It is requisite, above all, to avoid the
appearance of any pressure whatever capable of chilling public opinion
in America, or of exciting the susceptibility of the nation. We believe
that a combined measure of the powers, however conciliatory, if
presented in an official or officious (officieux)
character, would risk arriving at a result opposed to pacification. If,
however, France should persist in her intention, and England should
acquiesce, instructions shall be
despatched to Baron Stoeckl at Washington to lend to both his
colleagues, if not official aid, at least moral support.’”

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