William H. Seward to William L. Dayton, April 7, 1863

Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton

Sir: The Canada’s mails have arrived just as I am closing my despatches for Europe. I necessarily reserve your communications for a later day.

The weather has been such as to preclude all operations in Virginia. Movements at Charleston, if not begun, are certainly imminent. The reaction of opinion in favor of the measures of the government continues and gains strength. Public sentiment is cheerful and hopeful.

The public mind here seems deeply moved by the toleration of hostile naval preparations in Great Britain, and is likely to demand some form of decided and earnest resistance. Private armed vessels are offering themselves to co-operate with the navy in maintaining sieges and blockades.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,