Mr. Foster to Baron
Fava.
Department of State,
Washington
,
July 18,
1892
.
My Dear Baron: As promised by me in our
interview this morning, I take pleasure in herewith inclosing a copy of
the letter from the Acting Secretary of the Navy, of the 18th instant,
the original of which you read.
I desire to assure you of my cordial participation in the sentiments
expressed by Mr. Soley.
Very truly yours,
[Inclosure.]
Mr. Soley to
Mr. Foster.
Navy Department,
Washington
,
July 18,
1892
.
Sir: The Department is informed, from
unofficial sources, of a possibility that the steamer bearing the
statue of Columbus, a gift of Italian-Americans to the city of New
York, may be accompanied to the United States by a vessel of war of
the Kingdom of Italy.
[Page 350]
I have the honor, on behalf of the Navy Department, to say with what
cordial satisfaction it views the prospect of such a visit, and to
express the sincere hope that the Italian Government may decide to
dispatch one of its war vessels upon this occasion of special
interest to the two nations.
I would further say that in case of the arrival of an Italian vessel
of war in our waters, above all, upon such a mission, it will be the
agreeable duty of the Navy Department to tender to it a most cordial
welcome, worthy of such an honored visitor, and expressive of the
strong and loyal sentiment of friendship with which this country
regards the Government and people of Italy.
I have etc.,
James R. Soley,
Acting Secretary of the
Navy.