William H. Seward to J. Lothrop Motley, September 26, 1863

Mr. Seward to Mr. Motley

Sir: Your interesting despatch of September 1 (No. 32) has been received. The United States are not indifferent to the events which are occurring in Mexico. They are regarded, however, as incidents of the war between France and Mexico. While the governments of those two countries are not improperly left in any uncertainty about the sentiments of the United States, the reported relations of a member of the imperial family of Austria to those events do not seem sufficient to justify this government in making any representations on that subject to the government of the Emperor. His candor and fairness towards the United States, warrant the Pesident in believing, as he firmly does, that his Majesty will not suffer his government to be engaged in any proceeding hostile or injurious to the United States.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,