Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward
Sir: The Niagara left the Scheldt yesterday on her return to the United States. It is my pleasing duty on the occasion of her departure from these shores to bear testimony to the good impression which her commander and officers have left upon the authorities and people of this country. Commodore Craven has won the respect and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact here, and carries with him their good wishes.
[Page 92]The presence of the Niagara in these waters has had an excellent effect.
While in Antwerp she was visited by many thousand citizens, who came from all parts of the country for that purpose, and the courteous reception and kind attention extended to them have done much, I doubt not, to stimulate the cordial good feeling which exists on the part of this government and people for the United States. Both ship and commander have done us credit, and have left favorable impressions in Belgium.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.