Mr. Sherman to Mr. Ray.

No. 114.]

Sir: I inclose herewith for your information a copy of a letter of the 30th ultimo from the Acting Secretary of the Navy, stating that the Navy Department has authorized Rear-Admiral J. N. Miller, U. S. N., to remain with the Brooklyn at Portsmouth, England, during the continuance of the admiralty festivities; and has also advised him that on account of the illness of his daughter he need not return on that vessel to the United States.

I append on the overleaf a copy of a telegram of the 1st instant, founded on the letter above referred to.

Respectfully, yours,

John Sherman.
[Inclosure in No. 114.—Telegram.]

Mr. Sherman to Mr. Hay.

Answering your and Reid’s telegrams, Secretary Navy authorizes admiral remain with Brooklyn at Portsmouth during admiralty festivities and advises him, owing illness of daughter, need not return on Brooklyn to United States.

Sherman.

William McKinley, President of the United States of America, to Her Majesty Victoria, Queen of Great Britain and Ireland, and Empress of India.

Great and Good Friend: In the name and behalf of the people of the United States, I present their sincere felicitations upon the sixtieth anniversary of Your Majesty’s accession to the Crown of Great Britain.

I express the sentiments of my fellow-citizens in wishing for your people the prolongation of a reign illustrious and marked by advance in science, arts, and popular well-being. On behalf of my countrymen, I wish particularly to recognize your friendship for the United States, and your love of peace, exemplified upon important occasions.

It is pleasing to acknowledge the debt of gratitude and respect due to your personal virtues. May your life be prolonged, and peace, honor, and prosperity bless the people over whom you have been called to rule. May liberty flourish throughout your Empire, under just and equal laws, and your Government continue strong in the affections of all who live under it.

And I pray God to have Your Majesty in His holy keeping.

Done at Washington, this 28th day of May, A. D. 1897.

Your good friend,

William McKinley.

By the President:
John Sherman,
Secretary of State.