Murphy to William H. Seward, April 10, 1861

Mr. Murphy to Mr. Seward.

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your circular despatch of the 9th of March, in regard to the intervention of foreign powers in the domestic affairs of the United States at the present time. In compliance with the instructions contained therein, I immediately addressed the minister of foreign affairs of this government a communication, of which a copy is annexed to this despatch. The King is at present on his annual visit to Amsterdam, and will not probably return under ten days; and I presume nothing will be done in the ministry of an important character until he shall have returned. No person has yet appeared here on behalf of the seceding States; and if any one or more should come on their account, I apprehend nothing will be done by the Dutch government until the great powers shall have acted in regard to an acknowledgment of their independence or a treaty. You may rest assured that the present difficulties in the United States are regarded by this government with regret, and that it will do nothing to encourage the seceding States under existing circumstances. I speak, however, on this subject, as yet, of course without any official intimation, and merely from the tone and temper of the well-informed circles—as well those connected with the government as others. There is in the Dutch character a strong repugnance to political changes, except when a strong sense of wrong and injury exists. The government and people, as you well know, are conservative beyond any other nation. I will not fail, however, to inform you of everything which shall transpire here on this subject, and without delay.

I have the honor to be, sir, yours respectfully,