William H. Seward to Lewis D. Campbell, November 23, 1866

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell

Sir: I give you a copy of a despatch which has just been received from Mr. Bigelow, from which you will learn, as we have learned with surprise, that the French government has postponed its stipulated withdrawal of the detachment from Mexico in November, with the purpose, as is avowed, of withdrawing the whole of the forces at once some time next spring. I give you also a copy of my reply* thereto, announcing that this resolution of the French government is unsatisfactory to the President. The same paper will inform you that the President does not think it necessary or advisable to modify your instructions. We are not without confidence in anticipating a satisfactory resolution upon the subject from France.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,