Mr. Dix to Mr. Seward
Sir: I shall forward, by the dispatch bag of Friday next, the annual account of the condition of the empire, “exposé de la situation de Pempire,” presented to the legislative chambers at the pending session. At page 245 you will find the following pleasant allusion to the United States, which I translate literally from the original:
“Our relations with the United States have resumed their habitual character of cordiality. Faithful to the recollections of our history, we follow with a sincere sympathy the efforts pursued by the great American federation to complete the work of its reconstruction and efface the [Page 443] vestiges of its past discord. The prosperity of the United States is closely linked to that of the world, and in the desire we cherish for its development our interests are in accord with the traditions of our ancient friendship.”
I need not add that the document containing the foregoing paragraph is the account rendered by the government of the transactions of the preceding year, and the condition of the country. It differs little, except in form, from the annual message of the President of the United States.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.