Tells of relief that the Johnson impeachment trial is finished and worries about cuts in Naval spending. ALS.

Tells of state of the Navy and confides in David Farragut that Admiral Porter supported the impeachment in return for being named Secretary of War under Wade and to retain that position should Grant be elected. ALS.

Passes on his respects from the government of Portugal, reports on the progress of the revolution in Spain and makes predictions on a possible spread to Portugal. Requests that ships be sent to Lisbon that can carry both the Spanish and Portuguese legations away. ALS.

Congratulates David Farragut on the marriage of Loyall, tells of the problems with the Grant administrations handling of the War and Navy Departments. In particular, he criticizes the fact that Secretary of the Navy Borie is not interested in doing his job that that Admiral Porter is running the Department. ALS.

Expresses his happiness that David Farragut's health has improved, tells of moving into a new house. ALS.

Complains of actions of the Grant administration in regards to the Navy. Talks of the planning of the Battle of New Orleans, including stating that some recent histories attributed the planning to the wrong people. ALS.

Requesting David Farragut to confirm that a letter from him to Gideon Welles on file in the Navy Department is genuine. ALS.

Requests David Farragut to fulfill a promise to appear before a Board of Admirals on Preble's behalf concerning his actions at Mobile Bay. ALS.