But I trust that you will also have perceived that the crisis has not appalled us[742]." This serious and definite determination by the North to resent any intervention by Europe makes evident that Seward and Lincoln were fully committed to forcible resistance of foreign meddling.

Briefly, if the need arose, the North would go to war with Europe.

Adams at least now knew where he stood and could but await the result.

The instruction he held in reserve, nor was it ever officially communicated to Russell.

He did, however, state its tenor to Forster who had contacts with the Cabinet through Milner-Gibson and though no proof has been found that the American determination was communicated to the Ministry, the presumption is that this occurred[743].