No. 260.
Mr. Frelinghuysen to Mr. Hoffman.
Washington, December 29, 1881.
Sir: The noble action of the government in Russia in hastening as it has done to relieve the distressing situation of the survivors of the American Arctic exploring steamer Jeannette, and to facilitate their speedy restoration to their homes, is welcomed by the American people as a striking tribute of the good-will and fraternity of sentiment which have traditionally subsisted between the United States and Russia. Nor is it to the Government of the United States a less notable proof of the closeness of the ties which bind the two countries in generous fellowship. We see in this act of rescue something more than an exhibition of the natural humanity of feeling which prompts governments as well as individuals to tender succor to the distressed and relief to the needy cast on a friendly shore—we recognize it as manifesting in a higher sense the warmth of the association of two great nations whose intercourse has been from the outset marked by signal and enduring friendship, and by acts of consideration and mutual high esteem.
The President directs that you will convey these sentiments to His. Imperial Majesty’s government, assuring it, in the name of the government and people of the United States, of the deep gratification with which the great hospitality of Russia to our unfortunate explorers on her coast has been here received.
I am, &c.,