Mr. Bayard to Mr. Merrill.

No. 53.]

Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your No. 126 of the 5th instant, concerning the recent political changes in the Hawaiian Islands, and to say that your course in maintaining communication and consultation with the commanding officer of the U. S. S. Adams, with a view to promptly meeting an emergency affecting the lives and property of American citizens in Honolulu, anticipates the Department’s instruction No. 52 of 12th instant and is approved.

I am, etc.,

T. F. Bayard.