Sanford to William H. Seward, July 14, 1864

Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward.

Sir:The Niagara frigate, Commodore Craven commander, came up the river Scheldt, anchored off Antwerp on the 27th, the day of the exchange of the ratification of the treaty for the extinguishment of the Scheldt dues.

She attracted great attention, and the effect of her presence, it being the first appearance, I believe, of any American ship-of-war at that port, has been excellent. Some information, which I transmitted to her commander, of a rumor that the Florida had been seen in the channel, occasioned her departure on the 2d for a short cruise. By despatch from Commodore Craven, under date of yesterday p. m., I learn that she had just entered Flushing, and would be there for four days.

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,