No. 59.
Mr. Low to Mr. Fish.
Pelting, February 25, 1873. (Received May 23.)
Sir: In conformity with the decrees issued in October last, the Emperor was, on the 23d instant, duly invested with full power as sovereign of the empire.
In the afternoon of the same day a circular note from the foreign office, officially announcing the fact, was received at each of the foreign legations. A translation of this note I have the honor to send herewith.
[Page 150]The promptness of the yamên in making known the fact of the Emperor’s assumption of authority was so exceptional as to excite remark; it seemed to indicate that the ministers were prepared to discuss the new questions arising out of a change in the government. This punctuality of the officials in giving the notification appeared to demand an equally prompt response; nor did it seem wise to omit taking advantage of this occasion to bring to the notice of the prince a question which has remained in abeyance since the treaties were signed in 1858 and 1860. It was also thought advisable to let our replies take the form of a collective note rather than separate or identical ones, as the former would indicate that there is entire accord among the five powers represented here as to the necessity of some public recognition of the equality of foreign governments; it would also be likely to impress the imperial government more strongly with the importance and gravity of the question, and of the necessity for its prompt and satisfactory settlement. A copy of the reply in French and English is transmitted herewith.
The request for audience, you will observe, is made in respectful and polite terms. No reason, other than a desire to tender on behalf of our respective governments our respects and congratulations, is assigned for our request. If further discussion becomes necessary, which is not unlikely, an opportunity will then be afforded to present other and perhaps stronger arguments, such as the necessity of presenting letters of credence, and the propriety of extending to the representatives of the treaty-powers courtesies similar to those accorded to Chinese embassadors in Europe and America.
I may add that I aim, as yet, without information as to the views of the Department upon this question. As, however, a refusal on my part to unite in the request for audience would have prevented joint action by the other ministers, and as delay in making the request would be likely to lead the Chinese to oppose more strongly compliance, I had no hesitation in joining in a movement Which I believe to be necessary and which my judgment fully approves.
I trust the Department will take the same view of the matter and approve of what has been done.
I have, &c.,