Mr. Sherman to Mr. Hay.
Washington, September 25, 1897.
We have not understood Great Britain pledged to anything beyond tenor of Salisbury note July 28. But its terms should be construed in light of your preceding interviews with him and your note July 29. [Page 304] Russia and Japan had previous to that date been invited and have accepted invitation to conference in October. We have supposed Great Britain would not object to attendance of Russian and Japanese delegates at meeting of experts of United States and Great Britain and have benefit their observations and conclusions. If Great Britain insists in withdrawing from conference after the experts have concluded their labors, it is understood she is free to do so. Urge early answer to our request to be informed when British experts will be in Washington, and have date, if possible, not later than October 18.