PORTMAN, Chargé d’ Affaires ad interim in Japan to William H. Seward, June 9, 1865

Mr. Portman to Mr. Seward

Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith, No. 1, translation of a letter from the minister of foreign affairs, informing me of the departure, this day, of the Tycoon, for the purpose of placing himself at the head of his army, which is to suppress the rebellion of the Prince of Choshu.

This army is to gather contingent forces from various Daimios on the way, and, on arrival on the scene of action, it is estimated, will fully muster one hundred thousand fighting men.

There appears to be much uncertainty in regard to the attitude of several Daimios in the vicinity of Nagato, whose position as yet is not sufficiently defined; but there appears, also, to prevail an impression that the presence of so large a force will, by itself, be found sufficient to overawe not only the Prince of Choshu, but also such other Daimios who are now more or less wavering in their allegiance, and that the solution of all internal difficulties is now near at an end.

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,