But this conveys a very erroneous impression.

An unprinted portion of the despatch very specifically and in a very serious tone, instructs Adams that if approached by the British Government with propositions implying a purpose: "To dictate, or to mediate, or to advise, or even to solicit or persuade, you will answer that you are forbidden to debate, to hear, or in any way receive, entertain or transmit, any communication of the kind....

If you are asked an opinion what reception the President would give to such a proposition, if made here, you will reply that you are not instructed, but you have no reason for supposing that it would be entertained." This was to apply either to Great Britain alone or acting in conjunction with other Powers.

Further, if the South should be "acknowledged" Adams was immediately to suspend his functions.

"You will perceive," wrote Seward, "that we have approached the contemplation of that crisis with the caution which great reluctance has inspired.