Mr. Bryan to Mr. Hay.

No. 471.]

Sir: I have the honor to report that the presence of the Iowa in the harbor of Rio de Janeiro during the ceremonies connected with the inauguration of the new president has created an altogether favorable impression among all classes. It gave me an opportunity of calling the attention of the retiring and incoming Presidents to the absurd misrepresentations of the jingo opposition journals. These had stated, prior to the Iowa’s coming here, that the great battle ship was bound on a threatening errand to the high waters of the Amazon.

The American naval officers appeared at a ball given by myself at our legation and at all the functions of these days of celebration, representing the navy of our country in a most creditable manner and gaining golden opinions for their fine tact and handsome bearing. The entertainment which they gave aboard the Iowa November 17 was exceedingly well arranged, and was largely attended by Brazilian officials and society. The President of the Republic visited the Iowa on this day and repeatedly expressed to me his warm acknowledgments for the honor of our great battle ship’s presence at his inauguration.

I have, etc.,

Charles Page Bryan.