File No. 14503/28.

The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Sherrill.

No. 98.]

Sir: For your information before the arrival of the first fleet at Buenos Aires, I inclose herewith a copy of a letter from the Secretary of the Navy, stating that the squadron, which will be commanded by Rear Admiral Staunton, will be known as the United States Special Service Squadron, specifying the vessels which will compose the squadron, and transmitting a list1 of the commissioned and warrant officers of each ship.

I am, etc.,

Huntington Wilson.
[Inclosure.]

The Secretary of the Navy to the Secretary of State.

Sir: I have the honor to inform you that circumstances have rendered it necessary to substitute the U. S. S. South Dakota for the U. S. S. Washington in the armored cruiser squadron which is to visit Buenos Aires in May. The squadron will be known as the United States Special Service Squadron, will be under the command of Rear Admiral Sidney A. Staunton, United States Navy, as commander in chief, and will consist of the U. S. S. Tennessee (flagship), U. S. S. North Carolina, U. S. S. Montana, U. S. S.South Dakota, and the scout cruiser Chester.

A list of the commissioned and warrant officers of each of these ships is inclosed herewith as requested by the State Department.

Faithfully yours,

G. v. L. Meyer.
  1. Not printed.