A Diary of American Events.

February 11.—William H. Seward, Secretary of State, in answer to the call of the Senate of the United States for information concerning the French Minister’s (M. Merrier) visit to Richmond, Va., said that “since March fourth, 1861, no communication, direct or indirect, formal or informal, save in relation to prisoners of war, has been held by this Government, or by the Secretary of State, with the insurgents, their aiders or abettors; no passport has been granted to any foreign Minister to pass the military lines, except by the President’s direction.” — At the Lord Mayor’s banquet at London, this day, the rebel Commissioner, J. M. Mason, was present, and delivered a speech.—London News.