Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward
Sir: The discussion of that portion of the senate address which related to the United States was disposed of on Saturday without debate. The paragraph relating to Mexico was voted after a brief speech from Marshal Forey, a report of which will be found in the Moniteur of the 11th instant. The part which the marshal took in planting the imperial flag in Mexico makes him its natural protector everywhere. He proved, however, rather more imperialist than the Emperior himself. He said that, instead of diminishing the French force in Mexico, it should rather be increased, in order to hasten the moment when the withdrawal of the French flag would be possible. When he had closed, the minister of state took occasion to say that the policy of the government, as given in the discourse from the throne, would not be modified by anything that had fallen from the marshal. There is either a difference of opinion among the intimate counsellors of his Majesty in regard to what is to be accomplished before the withdrawal of the French troops from Mexico, or there is a difference of opinion in regard to the means necessary for its accomplishment. Time will soon disclose which.
I am, sir, with great respect, your very obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.