William H. Seward to John A. D, May 29, 1867

Mr. Seward to General Dix

Sir: I enclose a translation of a note of the 27th instant which was addressed to me by Mr. Berthemy, the minister of France accredited to this government, concerning an international conference proposed to be held at Paris on the 17th of June next.

The honorable Samuel B. Ruggles having heretofore received special instructions to take into consideration the general subject of a uniform system of weights, measures, and coins, I have by this mail forwarded to him a copy of the enclosed, with instructions to attend the proposed conference on behalf of the United States, and to participate in its deliberations to the extent and in the spirit indicated in Mr. Berthemy’s note, concerning the question of the uniformity of coinage.

I will thank you to confer and co-operate with Mr. Ruggles in this matter to such an extent as may be convenient, and to render him any aid and facilities which it may be in your power to afford.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,