Mr. Van Valkenburgh to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have this moment returned from the port of Hiogo, whither I proceeded on the 7th instant in the Wyoming, for the purpose of determining, in concert with my colleagues, upon the site for the foreign settlement.
Our selection was as unanimous as it had been at this place, where an admirable location, with excellent water front, has been granted for the accommodation of foreign residents and merchants.
The necessary preparations for the reception of foreigners will now soon be in full course of execution, and I trust they will be satisfactorily completed before the 1st of January next, the date of the opening of the two ports and cities.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.