Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward
Sir: The Archduke Maximilian came here for the purpose of getting a recognition of his new position. His father-in-law, Leopold, is here to favor [Page 741] his object. The government declined to act on the subject at present, but gave reason to hope that, so soon as the action in Mexico would appear to justify it, they would acknowledge him. It is understood that Spain and Belgium will follow in the wake of France, after which the other powers are expected to accede.
A loan has been negotiated for eight millions sterling, at 66 —, interest at 6 per cent, out of which a payment is to be made to France, in part, for the expense she has been at. The rest is to be used to organize a proper support for the archduke until he can get things going. The English creditors in the old loan, who have constituted the great support of this scheme, are greatly disturbed to find that no provision has been made for them.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.