Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward
Sir: * * * There is nothing of special interest here at this moment not already communicated. There seems to have been a recent gathering of secessionists here. Mr. Mason and Captains Maury and Bullock, with one or two others from England, have been over. Messrs. Maury and Bullock are here yet, concocting some plan, it has been suggested, to break the blockade with the aid of the rams now being built in England. But of all this you are informed from the other side of the channel.
The Emperor and court have left Paris for Fontainbleau. The unexpected news of the taking of Puebla by the French has caused great joy and gratulation, especially among the officials of the government. Illuminations occurred last night, and the cannon of the Hotel des Invalides were fired in honor of the event. The news was altogether unexpected. Even the French press had begun to admit the disastrous condition of things in Mexico, and the government, a few days since, sent off large re-enforcements.
No further news have yet transpired as to changes in the imperial ministry, nor have the pre-existing rumors been, as yet, verified. It is yet possible that things may remain (notwithstanding election results) as heretofore.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c.