Sir Mortimer Durand, our new Ambassador at Washington, was formally
introduced by Mr. John Hay on Wednesday to President Roosevelt. Sir Mortimer Durand in the course of his address mentioned that the King bad directed him to
assure the President of his earnest desire that the friendly relations between the two nations might be maintained and strengthened. For himself, he came to the United States with a warm admiration for, but no personal knowledge of, that great nation, and keenly conscious of the disadvantage at which he stood in comparison with his predecessor. He would, however, do the best he could to carry out the duty entrusted to him, and no duty could be more in accord with his wishes. President Roosevelt's reply was no less cordial in tone. He warmly reciprocated the desire expressed in the King's message, and paid a high tribute to the fine qualities which had enabled Sir Michael Herbert to gain the confidence and esteem of the Government, and to win the affection of all with whom he was brought into association. In conclusion, he observed that it was only fitting that such friendly rela- tions should exist, and that "the two nations, through their ministering agencies, should strive to reach a harmonious accord upon all that affects their common interests."
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