Rufus King to William H. Seward, & c, January 7, 1865

Mr. King to Mr. Seward

Sir:* * * * * *

In accordance with diplomatic custom, I paid an official visit to the Pope and cardinal secretary of state, during the Christmas week, to tender the good wishes and congratulations appropriate to the season; I enjoyed with each a pleasant and satisfactory interview, and availed myself of the opportunity to direct their attention to the gratifying character of the recent intelligence from America. They both appreciated in its full force the significance of the news and joined in the hope, which I expressed, that the steady progress of the federal arms would speedily restore to our country the inestimable blessings of peace and union.

Bishop Lynch, of Charleston, South Carolina, returned from Paris to Rome a few days since. I know of no reason to suppose, however, that he is at all more likely to be received and acknowledged as an official representative of the rebel government than at his previous visit.

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,