Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatches Nos. 142 and 143.
The Belge-Mexican corps which is organizing here, and to which reference has been heretofore made, seems to progress but slowly. I am informed that but about one-half the number contemplated (2,000) has been enlisted. The cause appears to be the want of funds to carry out the original plan. There seems to be a good deal of feeling against this expedition on the part of a portion of the population here, which I would not be surprised to see take the form of some public manifestation.
It is probable that this government will soon send an extraordinary mission to Mexico, and that M. Blondeel de von Cuelebroeck, the Belgian representative at Washington, will receive this temporary appointment.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c.