“The Queen desires to congratulate the President upon the successful completion of this great international work, in which the Queen has taken the deepest interest.
“The Queen is convinced that the President will join with her in fervently hoping that the Electric Cable which now connects Great Britain with the United States will prove an additional link between the nations whose friendship is founded upon their common interest and reciprocal esteem.
“The Queen has much pleasure in communicating with the President, and renewing to him her wishes for the prosperity of the United States.”
THE REPLY OF THE PRESIDENT.
“Washington City, August 16, 1856.
“To Her Majesty Victoria, Queen of Great Britain:
“The President cordially reciprocates the congratulations of Her Majesty the Queen on the success of the great international enterprise accomplished by the science, skill, and indomitable energy of the two countries. It is a triumph more glorious, because far more useful to mankind, than was ever won by conqueror on the field of battle.
“May the Atlantic Telegraph, under the blessing of Heaven, prove to be a bond of perpetual peace and friendship between the kindred nations, and an instrument destined by Divine Providence to diffuse religion, civilisation, liberty, and law throughout the world. In this view will not all nations of Christendom spontaneously unite in the declaration that it shall be for ever neutral, and that its communications shall be held sacred in passing to their places of destination, even in the midst of hostilities?