Mr. Seward to Mr. Clay

No. 52.]

Sir: Your despatch of November 8, No. 29, has been received. It is gratifying to know that the Russian naval authorities apprehend so well the friendly and fraternal reception which attended the Russian fleet on its visit to the United States.

The welcome extended to them in our principal ports was an unprompted act of the American people. It was, I believe, as universal as it was spontaneous. Admiral Lessoffsky, with a portion of the fleet, has at length entered the Chesapeake and ascended the Potomac. I had the honor on the 5th instant to receive the admiral and his associates, and after bidding them a cordial welcome in behalf of the President, I presented them to my associates in the administration. Yesterday the admiral received the heads of departments on board the flag-ship, and in the evening the Russian visitors met the heads of departments and a large party of United States naval officers at dinner at my house. The President has earnestly desired that their reception at this capital might reflect [Page 280] the cordially and friendship which the nation cherishes towards Russia, and thus far, I am happy to say, this wish has been realized. Indisposition of the President has, until now, prevented him from giving them a formal audience.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Cassius M. Clay, Esq., &c., &c., &c.