"He has crossed the Atlantic Ocean no less than six times since December, 1856, for the sole purpose of rendering most valuable aid to this undertaking. He has also visited the British North American colonies on several occasions, and obtained concessions and advantages that are highly appreciated by the directors, and he has successfully supported the efforts of the directors in obtaining an annual subsidy for twenty-five years from the government of the United States of America, the grant of the use of their national ships in assisting to lay the cable in 1857, and also to assist in the same service this year, and his constant and assiduous attention to everything that could contribute to the welfare of the company from its first formation has materially contributed to promote many of its most necessary and important arrangements. He is now again in England, his energy and confidence in the undertaking entirely unabated; and, at the earnest request of the board, he has consented to remain in this country for the purpose of affording to the directors the benefit of his great experience and judgment as general manager of the business of the company connected with the next expedition. "This arrangement will doubtless prove as pleasing to the shareholders as it is agreeable and satisfactory to the directors. "By order of the directors. "GEORGE SAWARD, Secretary." His friend and pastor, the Rev. William Adams, D.D., wrote to him on the 10th of March: "_My dear Friend_,--I do not know whether your homeward thoughts ever include your minister, but mine very frequently traverse the sea towards you and your noble enterprise.... We have all watched with great interest the noble bearing of your good wife in all the sacrifices which she makes for you and the cause you so gallantly represent. These are things not so much thought of by the great world; but after all they are the chief elements in that great price which we are compelled to pay for everything good and great.... "The _Niagara_ has sailed, and now all eyes are on you and on her. By-the-way, we all made a visit to the noble ship a week ago, and filled her full with a cargo of blessings and good wishes.... "We watch the papers with great interest to find anything which bears on the success of your undertaking; and feel a personal and national pride at every mention which reflects honor on you and your laudable exertions.... "With every good wish for you personally and for your great undertaking, I am, "Yours very sincerely, "W. ADAMS." The difficulties encountered by the Newfoundland and the Atlantic Cable Companies will be best understood by giving part of a letter from Mr. (later known as Sir) Edward Archibald: "NEW YORK, _March 30, 1858_.