Mr. Dallas to Mr. 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.

* * * * * *

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