[Translation.]

Mr. Geofroy to Mr. Seward

Sir: An American company, which proposes to take the deposits of guano discovered on Swan islands, has addressed the government of the Emperor for the purpose of obtaining special privileges for the exportation of this manure to France.

Before coming to a decision, in this respect, the government of the Emperor would desire to know whether the Swan islands have been effectively and lawfully annexed to the United States. The petitioners have brought to its notice a certificate from your excellency, dated February 11, 1863, attesting that they had complied, in what regards these islands, with the conditions required by the act of Congress of April 18, 1856. But what is the meaning of that act? Does it simply authorize the government of the United States to protect American citizens who discover deposits of guano, or does it establish the protection of the United States over the territory also?

I shall be infinitely obliged to you if you will be so good as to determine my opinion in this respect, and beg you, in the mean time, to accept the assurances of my high consideration.

L. DE GEOFROY.

Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.