Captain Franklin Buchanan, USN.

Captain Franklin Buchanan, USN

An autographed letter signed, dated 11 September 1861, Washington Navy Yard. To Captain A. H. Foote. Concerning reports requested by Foote, and with Buchanan's laudatory comments on Foote's words regarding the Navy in those reports.

Navy Yard
Washington
Sept 11th " 60.
Dear Foote,
You see I am a man of my promise, by to days mail I send you half a dozen of the reports you wished. I have read it carefully, and altho I expected to find something very clever in your letter, I was not prepared to find you such a first rate sea lawyer. All jesting aside, my worthy "cold water man" & friend, your letter is highly creditable to you and the Navy. I am always gratified to see such documents before Congress. It convinces them that Navy officers have brains and can sustain the honor of the country with the pen, as well as with shell guns against stone walls. Whenever you write any thing for the public let me see it. I always read any thing from your pen with pleasure, except an attack upon Jacks grog; !!

I reached home about a week since, my trip to Saratoga & Niagra was a delightful one. No written description of the "Falls" ever gave a correct idea of the reality, they must be seen to be appreciated.
Remember me to the Com. I did not return by N. York or I certainly should have seen you all at the yard. Present my regards to Mrs. Breeze and your charming lady who I hope to know some of these days.
Your friend and messmate
Franklin Buchanan

Cap. A. H. Foote
U.S.N.
New York Navy Yard.

In a hurry