William H. Seward to Henry S. Sanford , Esq., & c ., & c ., & c . , Brussels, July 16, 1864

Mr. Seward to Mr. Sanford.

Sir:Your despatch of June 28, No. 195, has been received, and your proceedings therein related are approved. I feel an assurance that our interests in Europe will derive much benefit from your return to your post. Your despatch gives me my first information of the arrival of the Niagara at Antwerp. I hope soon to hear of the Iroquois in European waters. If our diplomatic and consular agents shall keep the naval commanders well advised of the movements of the pirates, I shall hope that, though we may not all at once rescue our commerce, we shall at least save ourselves effectually from foreign interference in our affairs.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,