Russell wrote to Palmerston on January 7, "I still incline to think Lincoln will submit, but not until the clock is 59 minutes past 11.

If it is war, I fear we must summon Parliament forthwith[468]." The last moment for reply was indeed very nearly taken advantage of at Washington, but not to the full seven days permitted for consideration by Russell's November thirtieth instructions to Lyons.

These were received on December 18, and on the next day Lyons unofficially acquainted Seward with their nature[469].

The latter expressed gratification with the "friendly and conciliatory manner" of Lyons and asked for two days' time for consideration.

On Saturday, December 21, therefore, Lyons again appeared to make a formal presentation of demands but was met with a statement that the press of other business had prevented sufficient consideration and was asked for a further two days' postponement until Monday.