Mr. Seward to Mr. Burlingame
Sir: Your despatch of October 27 has been received. The President learns from it, with much satisfaction, that the imperial government of China has adopted a national flag; and he will immediately direct that it shall henceforward receive from the navy and the mercantile marine of the United States the respect and the honors which maritime powers are mutually accustomed to pay to the ensigns of sovereignty. You will assure Prince Kung that the government of the United States will scrupulously persevere in the friendly relations with China which have already become a source of distinguished benefits to both countries.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Anson Burlingame, &c., &c.