Mr. Seward to Mr. Van Valkenburgh.
Sir: This department has been officially informed that the Italian steam corvette Magenta, having several learned gentlemen on board, is now, by order [Page 211] of the Italian government, prosecuting a voyage of scientific exploration in the Indian, Chinese, and Japanese seas.
It is the President’s desire that the Magenta and her scientific party should he treated by the diplomatic and consular agents of the United States, in the prosecution of the voyage mentioned, not only as neutrals, but as friends, in whose comfortable and successful voyage the United States feel a lively interest.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
R. B. Van Yalkenburgh, Esq., &c., &c., &c. Same to United States minister to China.