Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session of the Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. Portman.

No. 20 bis.]

Department of State, Washington, July 18, 1866.

Sir: I have received and laid before the President your despatch of April 16th, No. 15.

It contains the correspondence which has taken place between yourself and Sir Harry S. Parkes, the British plenipotentiary in Japan.

The President is gratified that, in the wise execution of instructions which left you a large discretion, you have won for yourself, and for your country, the respect and gratitude of her Majesty’s government.

Your reply to the letter of Sir Harry is approved.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

A. L. C. Portman, Esq., &c., &c., &c.