KURODA KIYETAKI, Kaitaku Chokuan to General Capron, April 15, 1875

Governor Kuroda to General Capron.

General Horace Capron:

Dear Sir: Upon your departure upon the expiration of your engagement with this government in a position which you have for years so worthily occupied as commissioner and adviser to this department, permit me to summarize the benefits we have derived from your services:

In the early days of our work you have carefully examined the influences of climate and the capabilities of the soil of the island of Yesso, and submitted very matured plans of operations for its development. Such works, consequently, as far as circumstances would permit, have been carried out, and their results are gradually being-realized; the system of transportation much improved by new roads upon the land and steamships on the sea; the profitable undertaking, of farming; examples in breeding and rearing of foreign stock; the collection of foreign fruits, grains, and vegetables; while much valuable machinery and labor-saving machinery and tools have been successfully introduced into the country; geological, mineralogical, and laud surveys inaugurated and greatly progressed in, so that our industries are largely augmented. These improvements so much advance our progress that we anticipate a prosperous future for the island; and the final success of our project is, we fully believe, attributable to your efforts, and I beg, as a proof of our high appreciation of your valuable services, and also as a memento of our friendly sentiments, to present the articles accompanying this letter, which you will please accept.