Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session of the Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Seward to Mr. Williams

No. 33.]

Department of State, Washington, July 30, 1866.

Sir: Your despatch of the 12th of April last, No. 30, in regard to the desecration of the American cemetery at Tangchau, has been received.

I will thank you to inform me what is the custom of guarding foreign cemeteries in China; whether the government charges itself with the duty, or is it assumed by foreign residents, or their consuls. You may make inquiries, and send me a careful report upon the whole subject.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

S. Wells Williams, Esq., &c., &c., &c.