Confy
Navy Dept
In 8453
235
Washington
May 8, 1869.
At the request of Governor Custin, the Officer in charge of the Dept will detail an Officer of the Navy to proceed to China, for the purpose of giving aid & experience in executing surveys & soundings for the establishment of Cable communication between the Asiatic & American Coasts.
The Company have agreed to pay all the expenses of the Officer so detailed.
This country has great interest in the success of the Enterprise & the Dept is desirous that the Squadron in Chinese waters should aid it so far as it can conveniently do so, without detriment to the public interests.
You will accordingly give the enterprise full protection & assistance.
Rear Admiral S. C. Rowan
Commanding Asiatic Squadron
Yokohama, Japan
U.S.
Chinese