Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton, April 7, 1863

Mr. Seward to Mr.
Dayton

Sir: The Canada’s mails have arrived just as I
am closing my despatches for Europe. I necessarily reserve your
communications for a later day.

The weather has been such as to preclude all operations in Virginia.
Movements at Charleston, if not begun, are certainly imminent. The
reaction of opinion in favor of the measures of the government continues
and gains strength. Public sentiment is cheerful and hopeful.

The public mind here seems deeply moved by the toleration of hostile
naval preparations in Great Britain, and is likely to demand some form
of decided and earnest resistance. Private armed vessels are offering
themselves to co-operate with the navy in maintaining sieges and
blockades.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,