William H. Seward to Francis Clare Ford, September 21, 1867

Mr. Seward to Mr. Ford

Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your note of this date, officially announcing the decease of Sir Frederick Wright Bruce, her Britannic Majesty’s late accredited minister to this government. This department had previously been apprised of that very unexpected event, which there is so much reason for both our countries to deplore. Great, however, as may be the loss which her Majesty’s government has thus sustained in a faithful, experienced, and accomplished diplomatic officer, it need not be anxious lest its affairs in this country should suffer through the temporary absence of á representative of the official rank of the late Sir Frederick.

It will afford me pleasure to hold with you any intercourse winch may be necessary for the transaction of customary business, until you shall have been formally introduced to me as charged with the affairs of the legation-

I avail myself of this occasion, sir, to offer to you the assurances of my very high consideration.