Mr. Seward to Mr. Burlingame

No. 125.]

Sir: Your despatch of the 10th of November last, No. 95, accompanied by a copy of a letter addressed to you by Thomas Walsh, esq., containing valuable and interesting information concerning trade between California and China, and estimates of the amount of aid which would probably be required by mail steamships between the two countries, has been received. It did not arrive, however, until the 10th instant, when Congress had adjourned.

I enclose a copy of the act β€œto authorize the establishment of ocean mail steamship service between the United States and China,” approved on the 17th ultimo, which it is hoped will tend to develop trade and intercourse between the two countries.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD,

Anson Burlingame, Esq., &c.,&c.,&c.