CORRESPONDENCE 



REFERENCE TO SIAM. 



In connexion with this report, it may be well to notice certain measures which doubtless had 

 a leading influence in bringing to a successful issue the treaty recently negotiated by Mr. Town- 

 send Harris with the kingdom of Siam. Indeed, Mr. Harris writes to Commodore Perry, under 

 date of June 4, 1856, as follows : 



"I should have mentioned before that both the kings of Siam inquired after you and your 

 welfare. They are both aware of your services to your country, and of your opening Japan, 

 and I do not hesitate to say to you that your expedition to Japan was one of the great causes 

 that led to the English and American treaties with Siam." 



Commodore Perry to the Second King of Siam. 



U. S. Flag Ship Mississippi, 

 Point de Galle, Island bf Ceylon, Marcli 14, 1853. 



Most Exalted Prince : I have been most happy to meet at this port a vessel-of-war belonging 

 to the kingdom of Siam, one of beautiful form and construction, and commanded by an officer 

 of skill and merit. 



In remembrance of the kindness you extended to the late Mr. Roberts and the officers of the 

 United States ship "Peacock," in 1836, I beg your acceptance of a curious pistol, which has 

 been entrusted to my charge, to be presented to some high functionary who has sufficient 

 acquaintance with the arts to understand its mechanism and use. 



The renown which your highness has acquired in America for your attainments in every 

 branch of science induces me to place at your disposal this trifling gift of Mr. Colt. 



I hope that you will send one of your ships of Siam to America, where I can promise her 

 officers a friendly and honorable welcome. 



