Abraham Lincoln papers
1 From Thurlow Weed to William H. Seward , December 11, 1861
1 Weed was in Europe acting as a special agent of the government for the purpose of influencing opinion in France and England.
London, Dec 11, '61
My Dear Sir,
Again, after free communication with most intelligent parties here, I assure you that war is deliberately settled upon unless you, at Home, avert it. If it does not result immediately, from the 2 Trent affair, England will ask France to join in raising the Blockade.
2 On November 8, 1861 Captain Charles Wilkes of the U. S. S. San Jacinto intercepted the Trent, a British ship, and arrested James Mason and John Slidell who were on their way to Europe as representatives of the Confederacy. This violation of Britain's neutrality nearly led to a war with the United States.
Their object is, to while our Ports are Blockaded to open those of the Confederate States, resuming commercial relations in British Bottoms, and thus tempting the Border and Western States. This, you see, will have a strong appeal to the Pockets of men.
I fear that our People, exasperated by the burning of the “Harry Birch,” and the insolence of the London Press, will be in no temper to consult prudent councils.
But much of the abuse of the Press here might have been prevented if our Governmt had looked to it. I am already in communication with prominent men, some connected with the Govermt and some with the Press, to have changed the whole tone of popular sentiment. But to do this able writers, here (and I already know some of them) must be paid. The Secessionists understood this — have paid what was necessary, and we are suffering the consequences. I am working as hard as I can, on my own hook, tho' distinguished People here believe, and trust me, as in some way connected with the Governmt.
3 Mr Adams is very cordial, and renders me every [illegible] in his power.
Abraham Lincoln papers http://www.loc.gov/resource/mal.1336900 3 Charles F. Adams, the American minister to Britain
The Englishmen put searching questions, some of which are not a little embarrassing.
We have excellent Friends in the Cotton consuming Cities and Towns
The naval success helps much. The great difficulty has been that, with all our acknowleged superiority, the Enemy held us at bay. A real victory would set us up abroad. I am however, well satisfied with the last accounts from Home.
Very truly,
T. Weed
Abraham Lincoln papers http://www.loc.gov/resource/mal.1336900