Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to report that the President’s proclamation of the 20th of October, appointing the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and prayer, which he requested might be observed by all his fellow-citizens wherever they might then be, was received here on the 19th instant. The American citizens were accordingly assembled yesterday at the consulate general, where the President’s proclamation was read, after which an interesting and impressive religious service was conducted by the Rev. Gulian Lansing, and the Rev. Andrew Watson, the American missionaries.
A telegraphic despatch announcing the re-election of President Lincoln had been received here the previous day, and in his very able discourse the Rev. Mr. Lansing did not fail to call attention to this wise disposition of their suffrages by the American people as a principal and conscientious cause of thanksgiving; a sentiment in which he had the cordial concurrence of all who Were present.
I have the honor to be, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.