Mr. Foster to Mr. MacWutt.

No. 251.]

Sir: I have to inform you that the commanding officer of the U. S. S. Bennington has been ordered to proceed with that vessel from Montevideo to Palos, Spain, and to arrive there by the 1st of August next, to take part in the celebration in honor of the sailing of Columbus from that port.

You will acquaint the minister of foreign affairs with this information.

I am, etc.,

John W. Foster.