Mr. Foulk to Mr. Bayard.
Seoul, Corea, July 22, 1885. (Received September 11.)
Sir: I have the honor to inform the Department of the complete withdrawal of the Chinese and Japanese troops from Seoul on the 17th and 20th instant, respectively, the former going to Masanpho and the latter to Chemulpo. Both bodies were to sail simultaneously for their respective countries on the 21st instant.
With the Chinese troops a number of civilian Chinese, who had been sutlers and hangers-on to the several camps, left the city. A few Japanese policemen remain as a guard to the Japanese representative.
The withdrawal of the troops was effected quietly and in an orderly manner, occasioning no excitement whatever.
There being no police force established by the Corean Government, steps are being taken to provide protection for the foreign legations and consulates, using a body of Corean soldiers. The formation of a police service is also under consideration.
I am, &c.,
Ensign, U. S. Navy, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.