William H. Seward to Charles Hale, January 23, 1867

Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale

Sir : Your despatch of December 27, No. 72, has been received and is approved. You will make known to the government of the Pacha that the President of the United States has been highly gratified by the considerate and friendly disposition which the Egyptian government has manifested in permitting and aiding the arrest and delivery of John H. Surratt, who is charged as an accomplice in the assassination of the late President Abraham Lincoln.

As a token of the satisfaction which I am thus authorized to communicate, the President has instructed me to procure a portrait of the deceased President, to be presented in the name of the United States to his highness the Pacha. This instruction will be promptly executed.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,