Mr. Stoeckl to Mr. Seward
Mr. Secretary of State: According to existing laws of Russia, every foreigner who becomes a subject of Russia, and at a later time renounces this character, is obliged to pay before his departure the equivalent for the taxes for three years, and some other imposts, to obtain the right to export his property.
The imperial government has informed me that under a new regulation the subjects and citizens of powers by whom the dues above mentioned are not enforced will be exonerated therefrom.
I have, in consequence, the honor, Mr. Secretary of State, to request you to inform me if Russians, who are naturalized Americans, and who afterwards return to Russia, taking their property with them, are subjected to any imposts. Accept, Mr. Secretary of State, the assurance of my very high consideration.
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State,