Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton, January 14, 1863

Mr. Seward to Mr.
Dayton

Sir: Your despatch of December 26, No. 247, has
been received, and is approved. You will express to Mr. Drouyn de l’Huys
the satisfaction with which the President has received Mr. Drouyn de
l’Huys’s assurances that instructions would be given to the French agent
at New Orleans to conduct matters there with prudence and moderation,
avoiding occasions for unnecessary difficulty, without abandoning the
protection of French subjects in their just rights. You will also inform
Mr. Drouyn de l’Huys that reciprocal instructions, with a view to avert
difficulties, have been given to the military authorities of the United
States now occupying that city. It is confidently believed that the
irritations which have prevailed there will now subside.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,