Was this the Seward who was Lincoln's Secretary of State? And who bought Alaska?

Yes it was indeed that Seward. In March 1846 an insane Black man named William Freeman killed John Van Nest, his wife, child and mother-in-law. The citizens of Auburn had threated violence against any member of the bar who dare defend the killer. When the court asked "Will anyone defend this man." "A death -like stilliness pervaded the crowded room." Until Seward rose and said "May it please the court, I shall remain counsel for the prisoner until his death." Seward tried to get the death sentence committed to life in an insane asylum. Freeman would get the death sentence.

I like to think of Seward's quotes at this festive time of year, since he was the one who came up with the idea of making Thanksgiving a national Holiday.

Chase.