William H. Seward to A. L. C. Portman, September 3, 1865

Mr. Seward to Mr. Portman

Sir: Your despatch of the 5th of July has been received and submitted to the President of the United States. He is profoundly affected by the expressions of sympathy and condolence in the recent afflictions of our country which the Gorogio of Japan have authorized you to communicate to this government. We humbly trust that the dangers with which we have been threatened have been averted by an all-merciful Providence. But we are not, therefore, by any means less grateful to friendly powers for the good wishes they have expressed in our behalf. You are authorized to renew to the Gorogio the assurance of the friendship of the United States for the Emperor and people of Japan.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,