Mr. Portman to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the Mikado’s formal sanction of the treaties has been obtained; this is, in fact, the ratification of the treaties.
In preference to the opening of the port of Hiogo and the city of Osacca, on the 1st of January next, the Japanese government will pay the indemnity of $3,000,000, according to the convention of the 22d of October, 1864.
A revision of the tariff has been agreed upon.
It is also quite certain that civil war in Japan has now been averted.
I left Osacca bay on the 26th, and arrived at Kanagawa on the 28th instant. On my arrival I learned there was a rumor that I had been assassinated at Hiogo. I was immediately waited on by governors of foreign affairs, and received so many congratulations besides, that I could not leave for this place until yesterday in the forenoon.
This morning I communicated to the members of the government the Mikado’s sanction, and also the instructions which they will soon receive from the Tycoon, with a view of arriving at a prompt amendment of the tariff so urgently needed.
I shall endeavor to prepare in time for this mail a detailed account of the successful negotiations and the results above mentioned, of which I have no doubt you will be pleased to approve.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington.