Mr. Seward to Mr. Van Valkenburgh.
Sir: Your dispatch of the 20th of November, No. 66, has been received and submitted to the President. We learn from it, with satisfaction, that the Japanese government has taken measures to open communication, if possible, with the government of Corea, and that we may indulge an expectation that the United States may be able to avail themselves of the good offices of the proposed Japanese legation to impress upon the Coreans the necessity of a due respect to the power of the United States. The wrong we have sustained is unendurable, and cannot be overlooked. We are nevertheless anxious that our proceedings in the case may be conducted with such moderation as shall not bring in question the dignity and liberality of the United States in their intercourse with such communities in the East as are still remaining rude and unorganized. We look forward with much interest to the further proceedings [Page 635] of the Japanese government in instituting diplomatic communications with Corea.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
R. B. Van Vankenburgh, Esq., &c., &c.