Cassius M. Clay to William H. Seward, August 22, 1864

Mr. Clay to Mr. Seward

Sir. * * * * * * *

The Emperor and Russians have not been wanting in reciprocating the courtesies shown the naval officers and fleet in America. I was lately invited to spend a few days at the imperial palace of Kopcha, about 40 versts from here, to be present at a mock campaign and fight of about 60,000 troops. * * * His Majesty told me that he had allowed his officers lately in the United States to call upon me in mass, and express their gratitude for the courtesies extended to them in America; all of which was evidently intended as a national compliment. The Prince Galitzin, aide-de-camp or chief of the suite of the minister of the marine, General Krabbe, called first upon me, and returned thanks on behalf of the minister, and asked when it would be agreeable to me for Admiral Lessoffsky and his officers to call in mass and pay their respects. I named Thursday last. On that day the admiral and officers, accompanied by Count Admiral Greig, chief of the staff of the grand admiral, his Imperial Highness the Grand Duke Constantine, and also of the suite of the Emperor, called upon me as agreed. They were received by myself and Secretary Bergh in full uniform.

Admiral Greig said he was commanded by his Imperial Majesty to return thanks for the courtesies shown his navy in the United States, and instructed also to introduce to me Admiral Lessoffsky and his officers, whom he had also permitted to call on me in person to give expression to their friendly sentiments. The admiral was then introduced, made a complimentary address, and then introduced his suite. I responded in like expressions of regard; then introduced Mr. Bergh, who made a few remarks in French, which were, perhaps, generally better understood than my English. After a pleasant interview, we separated. I asked leave, however, to return the visit at such time as would be convenient, and Saturday last was named.

On Saturday one of the officers of the fleet called, and put us upon the imperial yacht, which was in the city. We were there received by Admiral Greig, who escorted us to the fleet beyond Cronstadt. The American flag was flying at the masthead. When we hove in sight we were signalled in our approach by cannon, and again saluted as we neared the flag-ship; the starry banner of the republic flying also at the admiral’s ship’s masthead. After being shown the ship, we sat down to an elegant collation, at which the health of the President was first drunk; then other toasts and speeches were made, the band alternating between Yankee Doodle, the Russian national anthem, and other fine music. The admiral of Cronstadt was also present to honor us. After a most pleasant day, we took leave, entered again upon the imperial yacht, and, amidst the firing of cannon and the waving of hats along the whole fleet, we set out for St. Petersburg, where we were safely set ashore. As these honors were for our country, and not for me, I shall prepare a printed report of the same, and send you in a few days.

At a supper given by the oldest regiment of the “guards,” at Krasnoe-Selo, where all the officers of the 60,000 troops were present, the Grand Duke Nicolas, and the two Grand Dukes Alexander and Vladimir, and the Prince Oldenburg of the imperial family, our country was warmly toasted, and myself, as its representative, especially honored.

It will be our own fault if the friendship between the nations shall prove short or useless.

I am, truly, your obedient servant,