Mr. Seward to Mr. Williams

No. 25.]

Sir: Your despatch of the 23d of November last, No. 16, informing me of the reprint in Japan of Wheaton’s International Law, and the beneficial results which may be expected from this proceeding, has been received and read with great interest.

The importance which you ascribe to the appointment of Seu-ki-yu to a post in the Foreign Office seems to be well founded. It is gratifying to this government to learn from these events that the efforts and purposes of the western powers are appreciated, and it views them as proof of the advance in China of the sentiments of western civilization.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

S. Wells Williams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.