Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward
Sir: Your despatch, No. 585, in reference to the movements of the Japanese ambassadors, and the completion in the United States of the ships-of-war for Japan, was duly received. I believe you are already apprised of the fact that the ambassadors have unexpectedly returned to their own country, and that they will not at present visit the United States. There is no necessity, therefore, to ascertain their number with a view of preparing sufficient and proper accommodations for them on their return, as requested in Mr. Weed’s letter. M. Drouyn de l’Huys informs me that their sudden return was unexpected to him, as he was informed, when they came, that after visiting France they would go to England, and thence to other countries. Their immediate return to Japan must have been equally unexpected to their own government, for since their departure their government has sent, through our consul at Kanagawa, to my care, as I am informed, for them, five boxes and one parcel, which arrived at Marseilles two or three days after they left that port. I have directed our consul at Marseilles to retain possession of the boxes, &c., until he can receive further instructions from Japan.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.