Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward, June 11, 1863

Mr. Dayton to Mr.
Seward

Sir: * * * There is nothing of special interest
here at this moment not already communicated. There seems to have been a
recent gathering of secessionists here. Mr. Mason and Captains Maury and
Bullock, with one or two others from England, have been over. Messrs.
Maury and Bullock are here yet, concocting some plan, it has been
suggested, to break the blockade with the aid of the rams now being
built in England. But of all this you are informed from the other side
of the channel.

The Emperor and court have left Paris for Fontainbleau. The unexpected
news of the taking of Puebla by the French has caused great joy and
gratulation, especially among the officials of the government.
Illuminations occurred last night, and the cannon of the Hotel des
Invalides were fired in honor of the event. The news was altogether
unexpected. Even the French press had begun to admit the disastrous
condition of things in Mexico, and the government, a few days since,
sent off large re-enforcements.

No further news have yet transpired as to changes in the imperial
ministry, nor have the pre-existing rumors been, as yet, verified. It is
yet possible that things may remain (notwithstanding election results)
as heretofore.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,