To George F. Seward to To His Imperial Highness Prince Kung, March 19, 1877

No. 67. Mr. Seward to Mr. Fish.

Sir: I have bad the honor to receive your instruction, No. 92, in regard to services rendered by Captain Stewart, of the imperial Chinese gunboat Sin Ching, to the American ship Enoch Train.

I have communicated with the foreign office as instructed, and transmit to you herewith a copy of my note and of the response which I have received.

I have, &c.,

Prince Kung, chief secretary of state for foreign affairs, herewith makes a communication in reply.

On the 12th instant I had the honor to receive a communication from your excellency, stating that last year the American ship Enoch Train being in distress near Hong-Kong, Captain Stewart, of the Chinese gunboat Sin Ching, rendered assistance to her, and that as a mark of appreciation for his services the President of the United States had ordered a gold watch to be sent to. the consulate-general at Shanghai to be presented to Captain Stewart; and you further requested that the thanks of your Government be transmitted to him through the proper channels, &c.

The gunboat Sin Ching belongs to the naval force of this government, and in affording assistance to one of your national ships in distress she was but performing a duty.

This mark of appreciation on the part of your government is an act of grace toward the captain of the Sin Ching, and reflects clearly its kindly spirit.

The viceroy at Canton has been instructed to communicate with Captain Stewart, as you have requested.