Mr. Seys to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to call the attention of the department to a law passed by congress on the 17th April, 1866, granting the transfer on certain conditions of a gunboat from the United States to the republic of Liberia.
I have the honor to add that so soon as it is possible to render this aid to the government and people of Liberia, so soon will a new era occur in their history of incalculable advantages to the guarding of their coastwise commerce from the depredations of lawless foreigners, the maintenance of their treaties with the native tribes, and the regular and frequent communications between the government and its officials on the coast. Having made myself familiar with all the necessities for such aid from the United States, the benefits to be derived from such a vessel on this coast, and from full and explicit conversations with the President, heads of departments and other influential men of the republic, I beg leave to urge the matter upon the attention of the department.
I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.