Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that I arrived here on Saturday, the 17th instant, by the way of Cologne and Lubeck. Upon my arrival I found my predecessor, the honorable Jacob S. Haldeman, with the books, papers, and archives of the legation in charge. I will take an early opportunity to examine the archives and property of the United States at the legation, and to prepare and forward a copy of the inventory thereof, properly verified, to the Department of State.
Having secured suitable apartments for myself and family, I hope within a short time to give my entire attention to the business and duties of the legation. In this connexion it affords me pleasure to add that I have received from the honorable Jacob S. Haldeman every kindness and attention necessary to secure individual comfort or to facilitate official duty.
Yesterday, the 19th instant, I had the honor to be received by his excellency Count Manderstrom, his Majesty’s minister for foreign affairs, in company with Mr. Haldeman, upon which occasion I presented my open letter of credence from the President of the United States, and requested an audience with his Majesty for the purpose of delivering the original. His excellency, who received me very kindly, remarked that his Majesty was at the island of Ouland, on the Swedish coast, with a hunting party, and would return before Thursday, the 22d instant, and that he had no hesitation in saying that an early day would be fixed for my official reception.
* * * * * * * *
In the interview referred to Count Manderstrom further read a telegram received by him during the day, announcing the avacuation of Atlanta by the so-called confederate forces, under Hood, and their defeat, by the federal army, with heavy loss. As he appeared desirous of ascertaining my views in relation to the effect of this success of the Union arms, I took occasion to explain the importance of the capture of Atlanta, and expressed the opinion that it would have a very material influence upon the ultimate triumph of federal authority. He paid strict attention to my suggestions, and then observed that both sides seemed equally confident. Thereupon I took occasion to suggest that the vaunted confidence of the so-called confederates could by no means be admitted, and pointed out facts to establish a contrary opinion, and remarked that even if the correctness of the position assumed by Count Manderstrom was admitted, still it was obvious that the more rapidly increasing weakness of those in rebellion must yield to the superior strength of governmental authority.
Count Manderstrom further informed me that the Prince and Princess of Wales were expected to visit Stockholm the latter part of the present month.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c.