DAVIS, Rear-Admiral Commanding South Atlantic Squadron to J. Watson Webb, United States, October 8, 1868

Rear-Admiral Davis to Mr. Webb.

Sir: I owe you, perhaps, an apology for not having acknowledged sooner the reception of your letter of the 6th instant, in which you give me the unsolicited benefit of your opinion on the subject of my official duties.

Since your opinion is formed without a knowledge of all the circumstances of the case, I may not, possibly, attach so much value to it as you seem to expect.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,