No. 35
25th April 1865
Sir,
I trust that long ere this reaches you, you will have received a telegram from me announcing the completion of telegraphic communication between New Westminster and SanFranciscoManuscript image Francisco Francisco, and consequently with Newfoundland.
2. My relations with the California State Telegraph Company are, I am happy to say, of the most satisfactory description, and by their influence the Eastern Companies placed their lines at my disposal on the opening day. The excitement arising out of the assassination of the President of the United States interferedconsiderablyManuscript image considerably with the telegraphic communication across the Continent.
3. The Collins' Overland Telegraph Company are rapidly carrying on their works towards Russian America. I am giving them every reasonable assistance in my power.
4. By mere chance the Cable under the Fraser at New Westminster was laid by me. I had lent mySteamManuscript image Steam Yacht for the purpose and was on board as a spectator. The American pilot engaged to take charge of the vessel was late, so I undertook to perform the delicate duty. I am happy to say that it was completed in a satisfactory manner. The California State Telegraph Company appeared much pleased with the compliment that was thus accidentally paidtoManuscript image to them.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient
humble Servant
Frederick Seymour
Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Elliot
Ansr that Mr Cardwell is very glad to learn the satisfactory progress which is being made in telegraphic communication on the Western side of N. America.
ABd 29 June
Draft accordingly.
Did we let him know of our receiving his telegram? I suppose we did, but if not, we ought to say something about it now.
TFE 29 June
Yes—the telegram & answer are annexed.
VJ 30 June
Other documents included in the file
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Draft reply, Cardwell to Seymour, No. 35, 1 July 1865.
Minutes by CO staff
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See answer to Mr Elliot's enquiry on 6181.
Read.
TFE 31/6