William H. Seward to Charles Francis Adams, July 5, 1862

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

Sir: Your despatch of June 20 (No. 176) has been received.

It is a satisfaction to know that a copy of my despatch 260 has been received and read by Earl Russell. The subject it presents is one of momentous import. It seems as if the extreme advocates of African slavery and its most vehement opponents were acting in concert together to precipitate a servile war—the former by making the most desperate attempts to overthrow the federal Union, the latter by demanding an edict of universal emancipation as a lawful and necessary, if not, as they say, the only legitimate, way of saving the Union.

I reserve remarks upon the military situation for a day nearer to the departure of the mail.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,