I am confident that not even the most trifling incident has taken place which could in any way mar the general satisfaction, and our Ambassador has expressed to me his great satisfaction with all that has taken place.
Owing to heavy weather encountered on the passage up from Manila the fleet was obliged to take about 3500 tons of coal.
The Yankton remained behind to keep up communication for a few days, and yesterday she transmitted the Emperor's telegram to you, which was sent in reply to your message through our Ambassador after the sailing of the fleet.

It must be profoundly gratifying to you to have the mission on which you sent the fleet terminate so happily, and I am profoundly thankful that, owing to the confidence which you displayed in giving me this command, my active career draws to a close with such honorable distinction.
As for the effect of the cruise upon the training, discipline and effectiveness of the fleet, the good cannot be exaggerated.

It is a war game in every detail.

The wireless communication has been maintained with an efficiency hitherto unheard of.

Between Honolulu and Auckland, 3850 miles, we were out of communication with a cable station for only one night, whereas three [non-American] men-of-war trying recently to maintain a chain of only 1250 miles, between Auckland and Sydney, were only able to do so for a few hours.
The officers and men as soon as we put to sea turn to their gunnery and tactical work far more eagerly than they go to functions.