Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, Transmitted to Congress, With the Annual Message of the President, December 6, 1875, Volume I

No. 175.
Mr. Fish to Mr. Avery.

Department of State,
Washington, July 30, 1875.

No. 56.]

Sir: Your No. 61, in reference to the rights of missionaries in China, has been read with interest and careful attention.

Your reply to inquiries of Mr. De Lano covers the whole question, and wisely and carefully distinguishes between rights which may be claimed as such, and privileges which the missionaries, by their self sacrificing: exertions, may be permitted to enjoy.

I approve of this reply, and of the broad and clearly-expressed views therein contained.

I do not deem it necessary farther to specifically instruct you, as it is not easy to foresee precisely how the question will arise. Should it be presented, you will consider it in concert with the representatives of the treaty-powers, and endeavor to advance, by proper means, and on grounds that can be sustained, religious toleration in China.

I am, &c.,

HAMILTON FISH.