VAN VALKENBURGH, Minister Resdient of the United States to Itakura Iga No Kam, January 14, 1868

Mr. Van Valkenburgh to Itakura Iga No Kami.

Sir: On the occasion of the recent sad accident occurring near the fort in this city, by which Rear-Admiral H. H. Bell, Flag Lieutenant Reid, and ten sailors were drowned, I called upon your government for assistance in recovering the bodies from the water.

Prompt and efficient aid was at once rendered, and diligent and persistent efforts were continued upon the part of your officers and men charged with that duty, until the whole number of bodies were recovered and delivered to their shipmates.

This assistance I understand was given by direct order of the Tycoon, and take this opportunity to return to him, in the name of the government I represent, its thanks for his kind sympathy and active efforts on this sorrowful occasion, and I assured him that the President will consider it another proof of the desire of the Tycoon to strengthen the friendly relations now existing between the two countries.

I also desire to tender, through your excellency, to all those officers and men who have been engaged in the search, and who have been so attentive and kind, my most sincere personal thanks.

With respect and esteem,