Mr. Van Valkenburgh to Mr. Seward
Sir: At an interview yesterday with Edzure Kanga No Kami, one of the governors for foreign affairs, he informed me that the war in Japan was over, and that peace was now established. The precise terms of the arrangement made between the Tycoon and the Prince of Nagato and Suwo, (Choshu,) he was not able to give me, but this much is undoubtedly true: Choshu returns to his allegiance, disbands his army, and surrenders to Kokura the territory he had taken from him; while the Tycoon rebuilds the yaikis or residences of Choshu, which were demolished in Yedo. Satsuma and Tosa, powerful princes and warm friends of Choshu, are now apparently friendly with the Tycoon, having recently visited him at Miako, and assisted in bringing about the settlement of difficulties.
[Page 55]The governor remarked to me “that all now seemed to be pleasant, but it was impossible to tell how long peace would continue, as there were many bad men in Japan.” I trust there will be no further outbreak, and yet fear that the opening of the cities and ports on the 1st of January next may be made the occasion of new troubles.
I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.