Mr. Bayard to Mr. Mutsu.

Sir: It gave me great pleasure to read in your note, just received, that “the constitution of the Empire was proclaimed by His Majesty in person this morning amidst great enthusiasm of the people.”

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I tender you my congratulations and assure you that the progress of your country in the methods of constitutional liberty is most gratifying, and I believe it will insure her solid prosperity.

No member of the family of nations will rejoice more over the strength and welfare of Japan than the United States of America.

I am, etc.,

T. F. Bayard.