I have heretofore delayed responding to your polite letter from indecision on my part respecting the place to which I should wish to have the esteemed token transmitted, whether to me here, in London, or to the institution bearing my name in South Danvers, which I intend shall be its final resting place; but knowing the uncertainty of life, particularly at my advanced age, and feeling a great desire of seeing this most valued token my countrymen have been pleased to bestow upon me, I beg leave to submit, if compatible with the rules of your department, that the medal with the accompanying documents may be sent to me here, through our legation, when I will endeavor to express myself more fully how highly I esteem the distinguished honor.
I am, with great respect, your humble servant,
George Peabody.
The Secretary of State to George Peabody.
Department of State,
Washington, October 7, 1868.
To
Mr. George Peabody, London.
Sir: Your letter of the 18th of September has been received. In compliance with the suggestion therein contained the congressional medal is herewith transmitted to Mr. B. F. Stevens, the United States despatch agent at London, with instructions to place the honorable testimonial directly into your own hands. It is hoped that it may receive no injury by the way, and that you may deem it, in design and execution, a not unworthy token of your countrymen's appreciation of your beneficence in the cause of universal education.
I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
William H. Seward.
George Peabody to the Secretary of State.
64 Queen Street, Cheapside,
London, E. C., January 6, 1869.
To the Honorable
William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.