The Eight Honorable Earl of Clarendon to Reverdy Johnson, February 10, 1869

Lord Clarendon to Mr. Johnson

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 27th ultimo inclosing copy of a resolution of the Congress of the United States of the 27th of March, 1867, prohibiting persons in the diplomatic service of the United States from wearing any uniform or official costume not previously authorized.

You add that no authority has been given to the members of your legation excepting them from that positive prohibition, and you therefore request to be informed whether you and the gentlemen of your legation can appear in plain citizens’ dress at the court ceremonials which her Majesty may hold.

Having laid your note before the Queen, I have received her Majesty’s commands to acquaint you that her Majesty will receive yourself and members of your legation in evening dress without cocked hats and swords—breeches being worn on full dress occasions.

With regard to all other American citizens, who are not affected by the resolution of Congress, they will of course conform to the custom of her Majesty’s court, and they will appear in uniform, or court dress, or in the dress agreed to with Mr. Dallas in the year 1858, namely: At levees in a suit of black evening clothes, with white neckcloth, sword, and cocked hat, and at drawing rooms or other full-dress occasions with breeches and buckles.

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient humble servant,