Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland have combined in an industrial exhibition, at Stockholm, of their respective productions in art and industry. They have succeeded to an extent that must be gratifying to themselves, as it is certainly surprising to most foreigners who have visited the exhibition. The buildings cover a large area, and combine strength and capacity with architectural beauty and lightness. From the central platform is seen a beautiful cascade in stucco, modeled by Molen, an eminent artist, and well known for his group of “The Wrestlers.”
The arrangement displays much good taste. The whole exhibition has been under the general direction of Prince Oscar, who may well be considered, where progress in art and improvement is concerned, the first man in Sweden.
The articles on exhibition of iron and steel cannot be surpassed. In jewelry and porcelain, in furniture and cotton goods, the display is quite creditable. A substantial marine engine for a third Swedish monitor occupies a conspicuous position, while sewing machines, and implements of agriculture from American models, abound. Cigars from Swedish tobacco—for tobacco to a limited extent is cultivated in Sweden (although its quality cannot be recommended)—can be found here. Various articles made from Swedish porphyry are exceedingly beautiful, while furs of all descriptions, tastefully made up and moderate in price, are to be seen in this exhibition. The project has been well conceived and fairly sustained throughout.
Committees have been appointed to select specimens from the best articles in the various branches of manufacture, &c., for the purpose of placing them on exhibition in the Parisian fair of next year. I will take occasion to forward to the department copies of the general reports when they shall appear in print. A number of our countrymen have witnessed the exhibition. The war in [Page 179] Germany has driven them from the usual routes of summer travel, and they have come north in unusual numbers. From this point they generally go to St. Petersburg and Moscow. Some cases of cholera have occurred at St. Petersburg, as well as this place, but not of a malignant type.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.