Mr. Burlingame to Mr. Seward
Sir: I had the pleasure, in despatch No. 52, to inform you in relation to the translation of Wheaton. I have now the honor to inform you that the Chinese government have employed our countryman Raphael Pumpelly, of Owego, N.Y., to make a scientific exploration of the country near Peking, with particular reference to the discovery and development of coal mines. Mr. Pumpelly has completed his engagement with the Japanese government of a like nature, and was on his way home, via Mongolia and Russia. It occurred to me to make an effort in the interests of science, on his behalf, with the Chinese government.
I found, in a conversation with Sir Frederick Bruce, the British minister, that he would have an interview with Wansiang the day following our conversation. Fortunately, the idea had entered Sir Frederick’s mind, and he was but too happy to aid me in getting Mr. Pumpelly in. He mentioned it to Wansiang, who immediately called upon me and had an interview with Mr. Pumpelly. I subsequently accompanied Mr. Pumpelly to the foreign office, where the whole affair was arranged. Sir Frederick kindly permitted Mr. Murray, a most accomplished young gentleman and government student, to accompany Mr. Pumpelly as interpreter. They set out in company, with and under the protection of military and civil mandarins, with letters to the officials in the interior. I learn by letters that everywhere they have met with kindness from the people. Thus Mr. Pumpelly has the singular satisfaction of being the first man employed by the Chinese government to carry the light of his branch of science into the hitherto unexplored mines of China. He is well fitted for the enterprise. He is young, modest, and capable. He was most thoroughly educated in Germany, after which he explored the silver mines of Arizona, and then, upon the recommendation of the eminent geologist, Mr. Whitney, of California, was appointed to make a survey of the island of Yedo, in Japan.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.