Mr. Johnson to Mr. Seward
Sir: As I advised you, in my dispatch No. 14 of the 12th instant, would be the case, the Queen granted me an audience yesterday at Windsor Castle. I was accompanied by Lord Stanley, the principal secretary of state for foreign affairs, who presented me to her Majesty. She received me cordially and I addressed her as follows:
“May it please your Majesty, I am the bearer of a letter from the President of the United States to your Majesty accrediting me to your Majesty’s government as envoy extraordinary and minister plentipotentiary of the United States. In presenting it, I am instructed to assure you of the amicable feeling entertained by my government towards the government of your Majesty, and of the high esteem in which you are personally held by the citizens of the United States. I am also instructed (and the duty will be most gladly undertaken) to do whatever may be necessary, having regard to the rights and honor of both nations, not only to maintain but to strengthen the friendly relations which have so long and happily existed between them. And if (as I am persuaded will be the case) my efforts are met in a corresponding spirit by your [Page 352] Majesty’s government, I do not doubt that the few causes which have for a time somewhat disturbed those relations will soon be removed and they be placed on a more firm and enduring basis than ever. Such a result will not only promote the interest of both countries and subserve the cause of free government, but fulfill the requirements of an enlightened humanity. I now most respectfully beg leave to have the honor to place in your Majesty’s hands my letter of credence.”
On receiving the letter, her Majesty replied in very friendly terms, saying that she reciprocated all that I had said in relation to the friendship between the two nations; inquired kindly after the President, and expressed her gratification at my being the representative of my government at her court. The interview then terminated.
It not being the practice here to publish what is said by the minister or her Majesty on such occasions, neither my address nor her short reply will appear either literally or in substance.
I have the honor to remain, with high regard, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.