Mr. Seward to Mr. Marsh.
Washington, September 20, 1861.
Sir: Your despatch of August 26th, No. 12, has been received.
I send you, in confidence, a copy of my latest instructions to Mr. Adams and Mr. Dayton, from which you will learn that the negotiations with Great Britain and France for an accession to the declaration of the congress at Paris have been suspended, and the causes of the suspension.
We are desirous to act in good faith, and to acquit ourselves of all responsibility for the failure of negotiations with enlightened powers for the advancement of the interests of peace and humanity; and yet we are at the same time resolved to maintain the independent position and the dignity of our government. We therefore hold ourselves ready to perfect a convention with the government of Italy for our accession; and at the same time you will not urge the proposition against any disinclination which that government may express or intimate.
We shall be the friend of Italy; and Italy, we are sure, cannot be otherwise than friendly to us, no matter what treaty relations exist or fail to be made.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
George P. Marsh, Esq., &c., &c., Turin.