Sir Julian Pauncefote to Mr. Gresham.
Sir: I am desired by Her Majesty’s principal secretary of state for foreign affairs to inform you that, at the instance of the German Govment, Her Majesty’s Government have consented to the extension for [Page 613] another year, namely to March 31, 1895, of the term fixed for the completion of the work of the Samoan land commission, upon the understanding that the three treaty powers should agree to adopt that course, and that the commission shall be closed at the earliest moment possible in the course of 1894–’95.
In desiring me to communicate this decision to the United States Government, Lord Rosebery observes that he has some reason to fear that the United States commissioner contemplates leaving Samoa immediately after the 31st March next.
The renewed absence of the United States Commissioner from Samoa would of course bring the work of the commission to a standstill, and entail unnecessary expense upon those governments whose commissioners remain upon the spot. His Lordship has consequently requested me to urge you to send telegraphic instructions to the United States representative to remain in Samoa until the work of the commission is completed.
The Earl of Rosebery is all the more anxious for this as he has heard excellent accounts of the competency of the commissioner for the duties he has to perform.
I am instructed to add that Lord Rosebery has been in communication in regard to this matter with the German Government, who entirely concur in the views held by Her Majesty’s Government on the subject.
I have, etc.,