On Sunday morning, December 24, with the British ensign flying from her shorn masts, the _Resolute_ anchored opposite New London. It will be remembered that Great Britain generously released all claims in favour of the sailors, and that Congress resolved to purchase the vessel and restore it as a gift to England. The _Resolute_ was taken to a dry dock in Brooklyn, and there put in complete repair. Everything on board, even the smallest article, was placed in its original position, and at last when this work was completed, she was manned and officered by the United States Navy, and with sails all set and streamers all flying started for England. On December 12, 1856, after a tempestuous voyage, she anchored at Spithead, flying the British and United States ensigns. After an enthusiastic welcome, the _Resolute_, with an escort of two other steamers, was taken to Cowes, near Queen Victoria’s private palace. December 16, the Queen, accompanied by Prince Albert, the Prince of Wales, and a distinguished suite, paid an official visit to the American officers on board ship. The next morning she was towed up to the harbour of Portsmouth, escorted by the steam frigate _Retribution_, and, on arriving at her anchorage, was received with a royal salute, and such an outburst of popular applause as was never known before. On the 30th of December, 1856, the American flag was hauled down on board the _Resolute_, amid a salute from the _Victory_ of twenty-one guns. The Union Jack was hoisted up, and the formal transfer of the _Resolute_ to the British authorities was completed. The following day the American officers and crew left England for the United States. [Sidenote: _TRACES OF SIR JOHN FRANKLIN_]