Letter

William H Seward to James S. Pike, September 4, 1863

Mr. Seward to Mr. Pike.

No. 111.]

Sir: Your despatch of August 5 (No. 96) has been received, and I give you my grateful acknowledgments for the careful survey of European politics which it presents. Only time can disclose whether the performances of the several actors will follow the outlines you have sketched for them, upon considerations of prudence and reason, or whether the plot is to be determined by caprice and passion. So far as we are concerned, it is manifestly our duty to practice prudence and preparation.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

James S. Pike, Esq., &c., &c., &c.

Sources
FRUS u2014 Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-eighth View original source ↗
U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian. Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-eighth .